Chiang Khan and Nan on the list of the “2020 Sustainable Top 100 Destinations”

Thailand's charming destinations Chiang Khan in Loei and Nan Old City in Nan have been listed among the "2020 Sustainable Top 100 Destinations." around the world by Green Destinations, a non-profit foundation for sustainable destination development and recognition based in Leiden, The Netherlands.

Photos and text: Tourism Authority of Thailand©

The Sustainable Top 100 competition is organised every year by Green Destinations and partners. Nominations are made based on 30 core sustainability criteria from the Green Destinations Standard (GSTC-Recognised) and a well-written Good Practice Story of destination sustainability.

I am so glad to hear this positive news. Being listed among the top 100 sustainable destinations is proof of the local communities' great effort, the visitors, and everyone involved in both Chiang Khan and Nan Old City to ensure sustainable tourism activities. It is a testament that Thailand is on the right path towards sustainable tourism, says Eurblarp Sriphiromya, Director of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for Nordic and Baltic countries.



Chiang Khan – a charming town along the Mekong RiverLocated in Loei province in the northeastern part of Thailand, Chiang Khan is a relaxed and lovely town with exquisite architecture of 100-year-old teak wooden houses, lined with breathtaking views of the Mekong River. It is a compact town so you can just hire a bicycle and ride around the town visiting all attractions. The life and culture of the Chiang Khan people are charming and unique. The local traditional way of life is well-kept such as sticky rice almsgiving to the Buddhist monks very early in the morning. Chai Khong Road, which runs parallel to the Mekong River with rows of teakwood buildings, small restaurants, bars, shops and guesthouses, is the main attraction. On weekends Chai Khong Road becomes the Walking Street and fills up with crowds of visitors. Clothes, local arts and crafts are sold at the shops and some really authentic goods can be found here.



Nan Old Town - the living ancient city yet quiet and tranquil

Nestled in a valley in the northern part of Thailand bordering with Laos lies Nan province. Nan Old Town dates back to the height of the Lanna kingdom in the 14th century. It is a small city that marvelously survives and continues its value of culture, tradition, religion and history. Nan Old Town has a relaxed charm and an interesting history with impressive temples and a museum. A tram tour or cycling around the old city is the best way to explore its historical heritage. Wat Phumin is the most famous landmark. Thanks to its unique architecture and its colorful 19th century murals that show scenes of daily Nan life. The most famous depiction is that of a couple, the man with tattoos on arms and chest whispering in the woman's ear.

Both are lovely towns with a slow life groove and unique cultural and historical perspectives. From Chiang Khan to Nan takes around 450 kilometers and you can enjoy the beautiful greenery along the way.