Ko Lanta and Chiang Khan drive Thailand’s Green Destinations success at ITB Berlin 2026
Published on 11 March 2026
Bangkok, 11 March 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) highlights Thailand’s latest success on the global tourism stage following recognition at the Green Destinations Story Awards and Green Destinations Awards 2026, presented during ITB Berlin 2026 in Berlin, Germany. The honours further strengthen Thailand’s international standing as a sustainable tourism destination and reinforce the sustainability direction presented by TAT at the world’s largest travel trade fair.
Representing Thailand at the award presentation were Ms. Natthriya Thaweevong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and Chairperson of the TAT Board of Directors, together with Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor.
Ms. Thapanee said, “These achievements reflect the breadth of Thailand’s sustainable tourism progress, from nature conservation and climate resilience to heritage-led destination development. They represent more than international recognition. They also underscore Thailand’s capability to develop high-quality destinations that place the environment, local communities and long-term sustainability at the centre of tourism development, strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a leading sustainable tourism destination on the world stage.”
In the Nature & Scenery category, “A Hero’s Tale from Lanta Island’s Regenerative Coast: The Hermit Crab”, submitted by Mu Ko Lanta National Park in Krabi, was named the Winner at the Green Destinations Story Awards 2026. The recognition is especially significant for TAT, as the Ko Lanta initiative has been supported under the Krabi Prototype, which TAT has advanced since 2025 to develop high-quality tourism products and strengthen sustainable destination development.
The Ko Lanta success also reflects strong collaboration between TAT, Mu Ko Lanta National Park, private-sector partners, tourism operators and local communities in protecting biodiversity through the “Returning Homes to Hermit Crabs” initiative. Supported under the Krabi Prototype, the project connects conservation with meaningful visitor participation, turning coastal ecosystem care into a responsible tourism experience that creates shared value for destinations, communities and travellers.
Thailand also secured two Green Destinations Story Awards 2026 in the Environment & Climate categories. “When the Mekong Changed: A Fishing Village’s Journey Towards Sustainable Tourism” of Chiang Khan, Loei, submitted by the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration, received The Winner award. “The Giant Gourami as GI Tourism: A Living Symbol of Climate Resilience, Connecting Water Stewardship with the Cultural Legacy of Uthai Thani Old Town”, submitted by Uthai Thani Town Municipality, received 2nd Place.
At the same time, the Department of Tourism received Green Destinations Awards under the Thailand Good Travel Award for Takua Pa Old Town in Phang-nga and Doi Phu Kha National Park in Nan. Both destinations were recognised under the Green Destinations Awards and Certification Programme for achievements in sustainable destination management based on independent assessment and internationally recognised sustainability standards.