Responsible Thailand Awards 2025

The Responsible Thailand Awards 2025 were presented at the World Travel Market in London in November 2025. Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (UK & Ireland), the Awards support sustainable and ethical tourism practices that benefit Thai people as well as tourists. 

Speaking at the Awards ceremony, 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 …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.”

This year’s winners are listed below. Visit the Responsible Thailand website to find out more about previous winners and other ways you can support responsible travel in Thailand.

Responsible Animal Welfare 

Winner: Elephant Hills
Runner-up: Khaolak Elephant Sanctuary

Elephant Hills

Over the years, Elephant Hills has established an excellent record in the Responsible Thailand Awards. Their dedication to responsible travel has been recognised in previous years, and this year they took top spot in the Responsible Animal Welfare category. The judges noted the adherence to PATA and ABTA guidelines and commended Elephant Hills for their veterinary programs and their work with various organisations to improve elephant welfare in Thailand.

Situated in Southern Thailand in the stunning environs of Khao Sok National Park, Elephant Hills offers a unique experience for visitors. Accommodation is in the form of luxury tents, with guests able to partake in a range of activities to enjoy the surrounding environment. From ethical elephant experiences to canoe safaris and jungle treks, a stay at Elephant Hills enables you to enjoy the natural wonders of Khao Sok while also supporting responsible tourism.

Responsible Community Tourism

Winner: Tumlungwahn Community Enterprise
Runner-up: Bang Rong Community-Based Tourism (CBT)

Tumlungwahn Community Enterprise

The Responsible Community Tourism Award went to Tumlungwahn Community Enterprise. Located in Suphan Buri province in Central Thailand, Tumlungwahn was applauded for its excellent community-led approach. All activities at the village are designed and managed by community residents, so visitors can be assured of authentic experiences and fair income distribution for local people. 

Tumlungwahn has also been recognised at the Thailand Tourism Sustainability Awards, and the Responsible Thailand judges praised the community leaders for the way they adhere to circular economy practices and the transfer of knowledge between the different generations. The way that Tumlungwahn supports traditional crafts and heritage helps to build community pride and proves that local communities can be a force for good in tourism.

Responsible Conservation

Winner: Bang Rong Responsible Conservation
Runner-up: Chiva-Som

Bang Rong Responsible Conservation

Bang Rong in Phuket won the award for Responsible Conservation.  This peaceful village in the northeast of Phuket is predominantly inhabited by Muslim communities that have lived there for generations. Surrounded by mangroves and greenery, the villagers share a deep connection to their environment and rely on the sea, mangroves, and plantations for their livelihood. 

The Bang Rong community has shown a clear and verifiable commitment to conservation. The judges commended the mangrove protection program and Bang Rong’s  ‘low volume, high value’ approach, which limits visitor numbers and prioritises non-motorised transport. Tours organised by the Bang Rong community directly fund mangrove nurseries, replanting days, and waste management, which help to make this an excellent example of linking environmental education with responsible tourism.

Responsible Destination Management Company

Winner: Discovery Travel Khao Lak
Runner-up: EXO Travel
Highly Commended: Tripseed

Discovery Travel Khao Lak

Discovery Travel Khao Lak was the winner in the Responsible Destination Management Company category. Specialising in private and small-group tours that focus on authentic and off-the-beaten-track experiences, Discovery Travel Khao Lak impressed the judges with its commitment to sustainability through activities such as mangrove and seagrass planting and regular reef and coastal clean-ups. The judges also gave kudos for their strong local ties, which help support the Khao Lak economy.

What is a Destination Management Company?
In the travel industry, a destination management company (DMC) is a company with specialised local knowledge about a specific destination. A DMC will usually design or provide tours, transport, and events. They will often (but not always) provide a business-to-business service for their clients.

Responsible Tourism Accommodation

Winner: Chiva-Som Hua Hin
Joint Runner-up: Katathani Phuket Beach Resort  
Joint Runner-up: Maneechan Resort Chanthaburi

Chiva-Som Hua Hin

The Responsible Tourism Accommodation Award went to Chiva-Som Hua Hin. This world-class wellness resort sets the standard for holistic health and spa experiences in Thailand and was praised by the judges as a benchmark for responsible hospitality and wellness tourism.

With impressive sustainability credentials and active leadership that sees Chiva-Som lead through example, the Hua Hin resort edged out strong competition in this award category. The judges commended Chiva-Som for their conservation efforts through the Preserve Hua Hin group and the Krailart Niwate mangrove ecosystem preservation project, while their strong support for local schools and community projects also scored highly.

To find out more about the winners and runners-up and ways you can support responsible travel in Thailand, visit the Responsible Thailand website.

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