Bangkok-based Khiri Travel has earned independent recognition for the quality of its Chiang Mai Sacred Paths and Trails itinerary in northern Thailand. The half-day guided trip to Wat Pha Lat temple on foot and on to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple by vehicle has been certified by the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR), which was appointed by the Department of Tourism to carry out the assessment.
Khiri applied to participate in the Thailand Tourism Standard programme, which led to the inspection. The institute’s Trekking Standard for Tourism (TTS 401:2016) certification is valid for Khiri Travel to use for this trip from now until September 2029.
In August, auditors from the Department of Tourism assessed the quality of the hiking experience, guide knowledge, safety procedures, Khiri’s management practices and commitment to responsible tourism.
In-depth audit
The Department of Tourism’s audit included interviewing staff about operational procedures, joining the hike, quizzing Khiri’s local guides, and reviewing how Khiri Travel prevents accidents and responds to incidents. Among many lines of enquiry the institute reviewed how the company collects and responds to customer feedback before, during and after the trip
“The Wat Pha Lat hiking trail is one of our signature experiences in Chiang Mai, loved by our clients for its peaceful atmosphere, immersion in nature and cultural significance,” said Naphat Kasikitworakul, Manager, Khiri Travel Chiang Mai office.
“The auditors from the Department of Tourism went deep into all aspects of the trip. It was a very involved process,” she said.
Khiri Travel can now display the Thailand Tourism Standard logo when promoting this specific trail.
Wat Phra Lat – ‘monastery on the sloping rock’ – was founded by King Kuena of Lanna in the 14th century. The temple, at an elevation of 630 metres (2,070ft), in the hills just to the west of Chiang Mai city, was originally a resting place for pilgrims walking to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep at 1,073 metres (3,520ft), deeper into the mountains.
ABOUT KHIRI TRAVEL
Since 1993, Khiri Travel has won awards and earned a reputation as a destination management company dedicated to working with select tour operators to provide quality leisure travel experiences across Asia. With 20 offices in Thailand, The Philippines, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and Sri Lanka (which has responsibility for the Maldives), Khiri Travel’s entrepreneurial associates craft innovative itineraries that reflect their passion for authentic, local and sustainable experiences. Visit khiri.com
