During the past decade,
activities like mountain biking, whitewater rafting, trekking
and camping, bird watching, scuba diving and rock climbing
have sprung up in many natural tourist areas. They are now
becoming increasingly popular as mainstream travelers pay
more attention to off-the-beaten-track destinations.
Such eco activities are now available in
every region of Thailand, more outstandingly in the mountainous
areas of the north, west, and the south of Thailand. Leading
the way are trekking, mountain biking, bird watching and
scuba diving.
In fact, eco-tourism is nothing new to Thailand. It was
previously popular among a small number of people, especially
students or young travelers, who love nature. Worldwide
concern for the environment has created a new demand for
eco-friendly activities. The boom in eco-tourism has prompted
the TAT to join forces with the Royal Forest Department
to promote better management of certain natural destinations.
However, the eco-tourism boom can have both positive and
negative impacts on the environment. The positive effect
is that more people are interested in nature and want to
learn more about ecology. However, the greater numbers of
people visiting natural areas bring more damage and disruption
to the site. For the time being, the Thai government is
continuing in its efforts to promote eco-friendly tourism.
Most of Thailand's national parks are under the control
of the Royal Forest Department. Most national parks provide
trekking trails for nature explorers. There are also camping
sites for those who want to overnight in the parks. Trekking
and camping are available in the mountainous areas all over
Thailand such as Doi Luang Chiang Dao in Chiang Mai, Phu
Soi Dao in Uttaradit, Thung Salaeng Luang in Phetchabun
and Phitsanulok, Phu Kradung in Loei and Khao Luang in Nakhon
Si Thammarat, to name but a few.
Actually, trekking and camping are not new
tourist activities in Thailand. But they are better managed
today than ever before. Apart from trekking along the marked
trails, you may also hire a local guide to take a tour deeper
into a forest to explore off-the-beaten-track routes. Organized
elephant trekking is another popular activity for anyone
who isn't too adventurous.
Mountain biking trips are organized by a
number of specialist travel agents. The TAT has promoted
mountain biking activities in tourist areas such as the
Sukhothai Historical Park.
A favorite activity for a small group of people, bird watching
is increasingly popular along with other activities catering
to niche travelers. The establishment of the Bird Preservation
Society of Thailand has helped promote public awareness
of this activity.
