Sukhothai’s Old Town has been awarded the Green Destinations Gold Award 2025 at the Green Destinations international event in France.
The event has been held from Sept 28 to Oct 2 in Montpellier. The recognition makes Sukhothai the second Thai site to receive the award, following Nan Old Town’s award last year, said Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, director of the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (Dasta).
“This success shows how sustainable tourism can protect heritage and strengthen local communities,” he said. Since 2019, Sukhothai has applied the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria in its management, Mr Siripakorn said, adding the Green Destinations panel highlighted excellence in four areas: culture and tradition, social well-being, destination management, and business communication. Sukhothai scored a perfect 10 in culture and tradition, reflecting its Unesco World Heritage status and its role in sustaining local livelihoods.
Thailand also celebrated 10 listings in the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories Awards 2025. The 10 awardees are Chakngeaw Chinese Village in Chon Buri; Chiang Khan community in Loei; Koh Chang in Trat; Koh Lanta in Krabi; Kui Buri National Park in Prachuap Khiri Khan; Nan Old Town; Na Kluea community in Chon Buri; Royal Park Rajapruek in Chiang Mai; Tha Chai-Si Satchanalai in Sukhothai; and Uthai Thani Old Town.
Neramit Songsaeng, chief of Mu Koh Chang National Park, said the recognition would boost interest in the island’s biodiversity and natural heritage. “Preparing for almost two years to achieve this recognition has been worthwhile. Our next goal is to compete for a Gold Award,” he said. Acting Sub Lt Korakot Opas, Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Trat office director, added Koh Chang’s listing would elevate the province’s image.