Championing Responsible Community-Based Tourism in Northern Thailand
From April 24–27, 2025, the Thai Responsible Tourism Association (TRTA) joined hands with local communities in Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son to further their commitment to sustainable tourism. Through a series of immersive activities, TRTA reaffirmed its role in supporting ethical travel practices that empower communities and preserve cultural heritage.
1. Advancing Sustainable Tourism in Ban Ton Pao
As part of the closing event for the “Enhancing Saa Paper Craftsmanship for Sustainable Community-Based Tourism” project (Year 2), TRTA members gathered to celebrate the progress made in Ban Ton Pao. This initiative, funded by Thailand’s Equitable Education Fund (EEF), has enabled the community to integrate local wisdom into tourism experiences.
Over the past two years, TRTA member Tour Mueng Tai has contributed as a key advisor, helping design immersive tour programs and guiding the development of CBT (Community-Based Tourism) activities in Ban Ton Pao. At this closing ceremony, TRTA President Mr. Thamrong Chomphusri personally visited the site to explore its tourism offerings. His observations will support the promotion of Ban Ton Pao to international travelers, encouraging cultural exchanges that benefit both visitors and the local community.
2. Exploring Local Wisdom and Traditional Practices in Ban Nam Cham
TRTA also paid a visit to the Ban Nam Cham Community Enterprise in Rong Wua Daeng, San Kamphaeng, Chiang Mai. Here, local entrepreneurs showcased their tourism products, highlighting their unique cultural heritage.
During this visit, TRTA’s president engaged in discussions with community members, learning about their efforts to promote tourism based on herbal medicine traditions, rice farming culture, and Thai martial arts (Muay Thai). These activities provide international travelers with hands-on experiences that bridge tradition with modern engagement, allowing them to learn, practice, and appreciate Thailand’s rich heritage in a meaningful way.
3. Strengthening Local Skills and Community Enterprises
Another key initiative focused on enhancing professional skills among local groups in Ban Look Khao Lam and Ban Pha Mon, including homestay operators, textile artisans, basket weavers, and local tour guides. In addition to refining tourism routes, this effort aims to create sustainable income opportunities that align with the community’s deep-rooted traditions and values.
To further support long-term growth, community groups are now registering as official enterprises, allowing them to collaborate effectively with government agencies and secure funding for expansion. The discussion also included reflections on past challenges in tourism management, with insights gathered to help improve operations and ensure lasting impact.
These activities fall under the Mae Hong Son Community-Based Tourism Network (CBT-N MHS), in collaboration with the Equitable Education Fund (EEF), reinforcing a shared commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism development.
These initiatives underscore TRTA’s long-standing commitment to fostering authentic, community-driven experiences. By bridging local wisdom with international tourism demand, TRTA helps cultivate travel experiences that leave a positive impact on both the host community and visitors alike.
