Post by : Meena Ariff

Photo: AFP

Thailand and Bhutan Strengthen Partnership for Sustainable Tourism

Thailand and Bhutan have taken a significant step forward in their joint efforts to promote sustainable tourism, further cementing their strong ties and shared vision for eco-friendly travel. From June 20 to 23, 2025, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted a high-level delegation from Bhutan’s Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators (ABTO) as part of an important knowledge-sharing visit.

A Landmark Visit for Both Nations

This visit marks a milestone under the “Two countries, One destination” initiative, a collaborative plan that aims to promote sustainable tourism between Thailand and Bhutan. The goal is to share best practices, develop new tourism products together, and create meaningful experiences for travellers while protecting cultural heritage and local environments.

The Bhutanese delegation came to learn about Thailand’s achievements in making tourism beneficial for both the environment and local communities. The programme officially began with a welcome meeting led by Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and the South Pacific at TAT. Other key Thai officials in attendance were:

• Ms. Patsri Permwongsaenee, Executive Director for ASEAN, South Asia and South Pacific Region
• Ms. Eblarp Sripirom, Executive Director of the Tourism Products Department
• Mr. Santi Sawaengcharoen, Deputy Executive Director, Office of the Governor

During the meeting, TAT shared Thailand’s national policies and strategies for sustainable tourism. They highlighted how Thailand aligns its tourism development with international sustainability standards, including those of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). TAT also showcased practical examples of how businesses in Thailand integrate sustainability into their operations.

One such example is The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, which was awarded the Green Hotel Standard Plus certificate for 2024–2027. This hotel demonstrates commitment to eco-friendly practices, waste reduction, energy-saving methods, and community engagement.

Learning from Northern Thailand’s Sustainable Tourism Model
From June 21 to 23, the Bhutanese team visited Nan province in northern Thailand to see how sustainable tourism works in practice. Nan is well known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and progressive environmental initiatives.

The delegation was welcomed by Mrs. Wilaiwan Budasa, Vice Governor of Nan, who discussed how Nan’s tourism development model focuses on benefiting local communities and preserving cultural identity. Both sides exchanged ideas on how Thailand and Bhutan can work together to create tourism that is economically, socially, and environmentally beneficial.

During their field visit, the Bhutanese officials toured several leading eco-friendly tourism businesses and attractions, including:

Nan Boutique Hotel and Resort, known for its integration of local architecture and sustainable management practices

Cocoa Valley, an agro-tourism site promoting local cocoa farming, sustainable agriculture, and community products

Saengthong Resort, recognised for its eco-friendly operations and community-based tourism activities

Pupakannapua, an award-winning destination promoting cultural tourism and environmental conservation

Many of these sites have received national awards such as the Thailand Tourism Awards, Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR), Green Restaurant, and Green Hotel certifications. These awards acknowledge their achievements in protecting natural resources, promoting local arts and crafts, and involving local people in tourism planning and operations.

Highlight Visit to Nan Old Town

One of the highlights of the trip was a guided tram tour of Nan Old Town. This historic town recently won the Green Destinations Gold Level award, making it Thailand’s first town to receive this prestigious recognition in ASEAN and the only town in Asia to achieve it in 2025. The award honours Nan Old Town’s outstanding efforts in creative and sustainable urban development, cultural preservation, and community participation in tourism management.

During the tram tour, the Bhutanese delegates explored Nan’s ancient temples, traditional wooden houses, local markets, and cultural landmarks, gaining insights into how the town balances tourism growth with conservation.

Building on Previous Cooperation

This recent visit builds upon earlier discussions held at Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM+) 2025, which took place from June 5 to 7 in Khao Lak, Phang-nga. At TTM+, Bhutan participated alongside other countries from the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), where both nations agreed to continue strengthening their tourism partnership under the shared vision of “Two countries, One destination.”

During TTM+, Thai and Bhutanese officials discussed potential joint tourism packages, combining both countries into single itineraries for travellers. They also explored ways to promote cultural exchanges, community-based tourism, and eco-friendly travel experiences to attract high-value, responsible tourists.

Moving Forward Together

This visit by Bhutan’s tourism leaders highlights the country’s commitment to learning and adapting best practices to improve its own sustainable tourism strategies. For Thailand, it reflects the nation’s role as a regional leader in sustainable tourism and its willingness to share knowledge with neighbouring countries.

Both Thailand and Bhutan aim to use tourism not only as an economic driver but also as a way to empower local communities, preserve culture, and protect the environment. Their ongoing partnership sets an example for regional cooperation in building a more sustainable, inclusive, and meaningful tourism industry for the future.