Eco–Tourism

In Thailand

Thailand

Thailand is located in Southeast Asia, and consists of a large

mainland area with mountainous forests and undulating

tropical beaches. Thailand also contains several island

districts that offer towering limestone cliffs and coral reefs, in

addition to quiet beaches.

The country’s diverse cultural heritage and natural resources

offer numerous ecotourism opportunities, including hiking on

foot or trekking on elephant-back; rock climbing; snorkelling

and diving at coral reefs; and visiting various cultural sites.

Why Is Eco-Tourism So

Popular?

Eco-tourism is nothing new to Thailand. It was

previously popular among a small number of people,

especially students or young travellers, who love nature. The

concern for the environment in Thailand has created a new

demand for eco-friendly activities.

The big progress in eco-tourism has prompted the

TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand) to join forces with the

Royal Forest Department to promote better management of

certain natural destinations for tourists, as well as the local

people.

However, the increase of eco-tourism 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.

Tourism In Thailand During the past decade, activities like mountain

biking, white-water 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 travellers pay more attention to ‘further away’ destinations.

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, so you won’t need a car whilst on tour (as it is not eco-friendly).

Ecotourism – Is it harmful or

helpful?

Tourism brings lots of money to an area which may

need help, or improving and building more facilities. It can

also create more new jobs: Taxi drivers, builders, tour guides

etc. Also, with the money made, people can rebuild their

roads or build more houses for the homeless and provide

resources for the poor people. It can also be used to build

schools and hospitals. They could make souvenirs to make

then sell to the tourists, which in that way they would make

more money. Socially, tourism in Thailand is a good thing as

many people are benefitting from it in many different ways.