From Chiang Mai to Krabi: Discover Thailand’s Top 10 Green Cities

Thailand is a country that welcomes millions of visitors each year, and has long championed responsible travel – pioneering initiatives that deliver meaningful experiences while protecting the environment, culture and communities that make it so special.

Building on these efforts, the country recently unveiled its 10 Green Cities, shining a spotlight on destinations leading the way in sustainable tourism. From cultural immersion and local homestays to eco-friendly transport and wildlife conservation, they are places redefining what it means to ‘travel well’.

Whether you’re searching for history, community, wildlife, slow travel or outdoor adventure, Thailand’s Green Cities offer a more ethical way to explore…

Community based tourism (CBT) is a key part of Thailand’s move towards more sustainable travel. It puts local communities at the heart of the experience and encourages visitors to engage more deeply with a destination, immerse themselves in its culture and connect with local people. This benefits both sides, supporting local economies while giving visitors a more authentic and meaningful experience.

Krabi, in the south, is one of Thailand’s flagship green cities, with dedicated ‘Travel With Care’ itineraries guiding visitors toward sustainable attractions and experiences. It is also a leader in community-led tourism initiatives.

In the Muslim fishing village Koh Klang, just a short boat ride from Krabi town, locals welcome visitors to learn about their community in a place untouched by urban development. Guests can tour mangrove forests, watch Hua Tong long-tail boats being made, sample Sangyod rice, and try batik fabric making.

A little further up the coast, Laem Sak is home to Muslim, Buddhist, and Chinese communities. They have developed eco-friendly ways for visitors to explore this hidden gem, from homestays and craft workshops to kayaking through coastal forests.

Other green cities in Thailand embracing community-based tourism are Chiang Mai in the north. Visitors can support the city’s samlor (three-wheeled bike taxi) drivers on a market or temple tour, explore the city by Tuk Tuk, or visit Wat Chedi Luang to discuss Buddhism and mindfulness with local monks. Nearby hill-tribe villages offer hands-on experiences in weaving, farming, and traditional life.

Krabi and Chiang Mai both have a dedicated Green Mayor to help embed sustainability at a grassroots level, as does Bangkok. The country’s capital is also implementing its Green Bangkok 2030 project to increase green spaces, promote greener transport, and develop eco-friendly infrastructure.

Many of Thailand’s designated green cities are rich in cultural heritage, offering sustainable and low-impact ways to immerse visitors in their past. Nan, in the mountainous north of the country, spent much of its life as an independent kingdom and only officially becoming part of Thailand in 1931. The city has resisted modern development and retains an old-world charm that invites you to slow down and experience life at a gentler pace.

Nan is proud of its heritage and locals take an active role in protecting their city.

Eco-friendly transport, festivals, and craft projects allow tourists to experience its charm while supporting the local community. Nan Old Town has even earned a Green Destinations Gold Award for its approach to sustainable tourism.

It’s not the only city in northern Thailand to showcase its history in sustainable ways. Sukhothai, which dates back to the 13th century, is known for its historical park, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring temples, palaces, and monuments. Visitors are encouraged to explore the area on bike, following rural trails through paddy fields and along canals.

Nakhon Ratchasima is the third largest city in Thailand and home to three UNESCO sites, including a Global Geopark and a biosphere reserve. The city recently launched a pioneering Eco Trail, developed with the Ban Tha Maprang–Khlong Phlo community, to encourage visitors to engage with nature.

For those seeking off-the-beaten-track destinations, Loei in the northeast of Thailand is an emerging eco-tourism destination set amid stunning mountain landscapes, where natural beauty and cultural heritage coexist in an unspoilt setting.

Thailand’s natural beauty is a major draw for visitors, and responsible tourism is essential to preserve the nature for future generations.

In Phang Nga, an area rich in biodiversity, marine conservation is a priority. Ao Phang Nga National Park spans over 40,000 hectares and is home to a vast eco-system, including Thailand’s largest intact mangrove forests, coral gardens, and abundant bird and marine life. Community based and education focused projects, from mangrove restoration and turtle protection, help to preserve coastal habitats and empower local communities, while eco-certified tours offer low-impact visits to stunning spots.

In the province of Surat Thani, you’ll find Elephant Hills, an award-winning eco lodge where guests can enjoy ethical elephant encounters, canoe safaris and jungle treks while supporting conservation efforts. The area of Surat Thani is also home of Thailand’s most popular diving spot: Koh Tao, and eco-friendly operators ensure visitors experience it in a responsible way. In Surat Thani city itself, the ‘Bang Bai Mai’ area is home to a network of hundreds of canals and locals offer boat trips for visitors to take in the local wildlife.

Finally, Trat in eastern Thailand, which is a gateway to dozens of beautiful islands, is a green city known for its nature positive tourism programmes and its approach to waste management. The island of Ko Mak is an eco-tourism pioneer, with vehicle restrictions and plastic-reduction initiatives. In the coastal village of Ban Nam Chiao — home to mangrove forests and scenic nature trails — visitors can join longtail boat trips with locals and try their hand at traditional crab fishing methods.

Find out more about ethical and sustainable travel options, and other ways to support local communities and protect the environment during your stay at Responsible Thailand