Visitors take photos at Kuang Si Waterfall, a popular tourist destination in Luang Prabang. -- File photo: Vientiane Times/ANN
VIENTIANE (Vientiane Times/ANN): Luang Prabang, a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1995, is stepping up efforts to secure the prestigious Tourism Destination Award from the Green Destination Organisation by finalising key documentation and ensuring compliance with evaluation criteria.
On May 15, a consultation meeting was held at the provincial Department of Information, Culture and Tourism, bringing together key stakeholders, including Deputy Director General of the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration of Thailand, Dr Chuwit Mitrchob; Head of the Luang Prabang provincial Department of Information, Culture and Tourism, Soudaphone Khomthavong; and representatives from various departments in Luang Prabang city and province.
Soudaphone highlighted Luang Prabang’s recent recognition as one of the 100 best tourism destinations in the world, announced at ITB Berlin 2025, the world’s leading travel trade show.
She noted that this accolade reflects the collaborative efforts of local authorities and tourism stakeholders to improve the quality of tourism in line with the province’s development vision.
“Our aim is that by 2029, Luang Prabang will become a quality, modern, and regionally and internationally connected tourism destination,” she said.
The meeting addressed areas highlighted by evaluators from the Green Destination Organisation, particularly regarding the criteria, conditions and indicators required for certification as a sustainable tourist destination.
Soudaphone called on all participants to provide in-depth comments and data to enhance the submission and ensure Luang Prabang’s success in achieving full certification.
Dr Chuwit also spoke at the meeting, clarifying specific points in the evaluation form and encouraging participants to align their feedback with the requirements outlined by the Green Destination Organisation.
He stressed the importance of providing accurate and coordinated input to meet the necessary standards.
Luang Prabang continues to attract a high number of visitors. According to the provincial Department of Information, Culture and Tourism, more than 2.3 million Lao and foreign tourists visited the province in 2024, generating over US$1.2 billion in revenue.
Among the province’s renowned attractions are the Kuangsi waterfall, Mount Phousi, Xieng Thong temple, the Royal Palace Museum, and the night market.
Visitors also enjoy sampling traditional Lao foods such as sticky rice, laap (minced meat salad), and jaew bong (chilli paste). Favourite souvenirs include handwoven textiles, handmade crafts, and local snacks, widely available in markets such as Talad Phosy.
By securing Green Destination certification, Luang Prabang hopes to further elevate its profile as a culturally rich tourist destination, in line with its long-term development goals. - Vientiane Times/ANN
