Eco-Tourism

Thailand is fortunate in its prime location for tourism in terms of such natural attractions as beaches and mountains, cultural and historical sites which reflect the glories of Thai civilization, and a sophisticated infrastructure, allowing visitors easy access to all these treasures.

The government's policy on tourism for the past years has been gearing towards more and more sustainable tourism development with emphasis on community participation, safety of tourists and non-exploitation. The term “eco-tourism” has been widely used to describe a form of tourism in natural areas that is based on the knowledge about and responsibility towards the ecological system of the area.

At present, the number of real eco-tourism visitors is still minimal. Mostly, those tourists are included in other types of tourism such as nature-based tourism, agro-tourism, cultural and historical tourism and health tourism. Most of such tourism areas are in natural parks and specific historical-cultural areas.

The national parks system in Thailand was previously cited its growing importance to the eco-tourism industry. With most parks easily accessible by road, there exists excellent potential to expand the number of visitors who use them.

In the case of the Maekong River, the nature-based tourism potential particularly applies to Northeast Thailand, an area that the TAT has identified as a priority for tourism development. The national parks in close proximity to the Mekong River include sites of prehistoric, archaeological and natural significance. As the Mekong region increases in its exposure and popularity, these parks will experience an increased number of visitors in search of quality eco-tours.

One marine eco-tourism, the last 30 years saw the country establishing 18 marine national parks as well as more than 70 terrestrial ones. Many of the activities available on and around Thailand's crystal seas are environmentally sound. Sea canoeing, windsurfing biking, walking, swimming, snorkeling and sailing are, when practiced as they should be, perfectly respectful of nature. Diving, the most popular water sport in Thailand, can be just as green.

Thailand has a great opportunity to promote eco-tourism, especially when compared to other countries in the Asia region. The kingdom enjoys such benefits as easy access, sophisticated infrastructure
Thanks to the abundance and variety of natural resources, Thailand has become a favored destination for adventure seekers and eco-tourists. The Tourism Authority of Thailand as well as the private sector has been quick to respond to the fast-changing demand for back-to-nature activities.

During the past decade, activities like mountain biking, whitewater rafting, trekking and camping, bird watching, scuba Diving and rock climbing have sprung up in many natural tourist areas. They are now becoming increasingly popular as mainstream travelers pay more attention to off-the-beaten-track destinations.
Such eco activities are now available in every region of Thailand, more outstandingly in the mountainous areas of the north, west, and the south of Thailand. Leading the way are trekking, mountain biking, bird watching and scuba Diving.

Most of Thailand's national parks are under the control of the Royal Forest Department. Most national parks provide trekking trails for nature explorers. There are also camping sites for those who want to overnight in the parks. Trekking and camping are available in the mountainous areas all over Thailand such as Doi Luang Chiang Dao in Chiang Mai, Phu Soi Dao in Uttaradit, Thung Salaeng Luang in Phetchabun and Phitsanulok, Phu Kradung in Loei and Khao Luang in Nakhon Si Thammarat, to name but a few.

Actually, trekking and camping are not new tourist activities in Thailand. But they are better managed today than ever before. Apart from trekking along the marked trails, you may also hire a local guide to take a tour deeper into a forest to explore off-the-beaten-track routes. Organized elephant trekking is another popular activity for anyone who isn't too adventurous.

Bird Watching /Camping / Climbing/ Rafting /Scuba Diving /Others Activities 

Why is eco-tourism popular?

In fact, eco-tourism is nothing new to Thailand. It was previously popular among a small number of people, especially students or young travelers, who love nature. Worldwide concern for the environment has created a new demand for eco-friendly activities. The boom in eco-tourism has prompted the TAT to join forces with the Royal Forest Department to promote better management of certain natural destinations.

However, the eco-tourism boom can have both positive and negative impacts on the environment. The positive effect is that more people are interested in nature and want to learn more about ecology. However, the greater numbers of people visiting natural areas bring more damage and disruption to the site. For the time being, the Thai government is continuing in its efforts to promote eco-friendly tourism.

Mountain biking trips are organized by a number of specialist travel agents. The TAT has promoted mountain biking activities in tourist areas such as the Sukhothai Historical Park.

A favorite activity for a small group of people, bird watching is increasingly popular along with other activities catering to niche travelers. The establishment of the Bird Preservation Society
of Thailand has helped promote public awareness of this activity