Responsible Thailand Awards 2025 honour champions of sustainable tourism

London, 5 November 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced the winners of the Responsible Thailand Awards 2025 during the Amazing Thailand Press Conference at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2025, held at ExCeL London. Now in its 18th year, the Awards continue to highlight the achievements of individuals and organisations that exemplify leadership in sustainable and ethical tourism practices, protecting Thailand’s people, culture, and environment while inspiring positive change across the industry.

Mr. Artthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports, said, “The Responsible Thailand Awards are not only a recognition of excellence but a beacon for the future—honouring those whose innovation, dedication, and accountability embody the true spirit of sustainable tourism. This year’s winners will receive global visibility through TAT’s communication platforms, helping to inspire others to follow their example. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all award recipients and nominees for their outstanding contributions. Your work proves that tourism can uplift communities, protect our planet, and create lasting value for generations to come.”
 

The Responsible Thailand Awards 2025 feature five categories: Responsible Animal Welfare, Responsible Community Tourism, Responsible Conservation, Responsible Destination Management Company, and Responsible Tourism Accommodation. Built upon the five core pillars of Best Practice, Forward Planning, Achievements, Network Engagement, and Long-term Commitment, the Awards underscore Thailand’s holistic approach to responsible tourism.

Organised by the TAT London Office, the judging panel for the Responsible Thailand Awards 2025 comprised Ms. Worapa Angkhasirisap, Director of the TAT London Office; Ms. Claire Ross, Chair of the Board of Trustees, DERTOUR Foundation; Mr. Christopher Lee, Marketing Manager, TAT London Office; and Mr. Roy Cavanagh, Editor of ResponsibleThailand.com.

In the Responsible Animal Welfare category, Elephant Hills in Khao Sok National Park was recognised for its exceptional commitment to ethical elephant care. A multiple-time winner of the Responsible Thailand Awards, Elephant Hills was previously honoured in 2015–2016 for Animal Welfare, in 2017 for both Animal Welfare and Eco-Lodge/Eco-Hotel, in 2018 for Eco-Lodge, in 2023 for Eco-Lodge, and again in 2024 for Animal Welfare. The judges this year commended its independent Global Spirit verification, adherence to PATA and ABTA guidelines, and dedicated veterinary programme supported by Chiang Mai University, Lampang Elephant Hospital, and international experts. Elephant Hills remains a leading model of observation-based elephant tourism that prioritises welfare and responsibility.

The Responsible Community Tourism Award went to Tumlungwahn Community Enterprise in Suphan Buri province for its outstanding community-led approach. All activities are designed and managed by local residents, ensuring authentic experiences and fair income distribution. This marks Tumlungwahn’s first win in the Responsible Community Tourism category, adding to its recognition at the Thailand Tourism Sustainability Awards in the Attraction category. The judges praised its circular-economy practices, intergenerational knowledge-sharing, and promotion of traditional crafts, which together strengthen local pride and sustainable livelihoods.

In the Responsible Conservation category, Bang Rong Community Based Tourism in Phuket was recognised for its exceptional commitment to mangrove protection and low-impact tourism. A previous winner in 2024 in the Community Tourism category, Bang Rong continues to demonstrate leadership in sustainable community initiatives. Its “low volume, high value” approach limits visitor numbers while promoting kayaking, walking, and replanting activities. The judges described Bang Rong as an exemplary model linking conservation, education, and responsible visitor engagement.

Discovery Travel Khao Lak received the Responsible Destination Management Company Award for its comprehensive sustainability practices and strong local collaboration. This marks Discovery Travel Khao Lak’s first win in the Responsible Destination Management Company category. The judges cited its Travelife certification, STAR and Tourism Awards, and active role in the Phang Nga Tourism Association and the Sustainable Khao Lak Network. Its initiatives in mangrove and coral restoration, coastal clean-ups, and longtail boat hybrid conversion highlight the company’s ongoing environmental innovation.