VIENTIANE: Ngoy district in the north of Luang Prabang province plans to upgrade infrastructure, facilities, and accommodation in a bid to attract more visitors and become the province’s second most popular tourist destination after the Unesco World Heritage Site in the provincial capital.
A meeting held in Ngoy district on Aug 6-7 shared ideas on the draft of the Ngoy tourism development, promotion and protection plan, covering the years 2026-2030.
The gathering was co-chaired by the Director of the Luang Prabang provincial Culture and Tourism Department, Dr Soudaphone Khomthavong, and the Acting Governor of Ngoy district, Dr Somsanith Kaenmani.
The talks were an important step towards finalising the plan, which will guide the district’s tourism growth with the goal of making Ngoy a leading nature-based destination.
The consultation brought together representatives from the public and private sectors to contribute ideas for inclusion in the plan.
District authorities will prioritise improvements to infrastructure, facilities and services to ensure visitors have a memorable experience.
The plan also includes efforts to comply with Asean tourism standards, with a particular focus on the Asean green hotel standard, to raise the quality and sustainability of services.
An official in charge of the scheme, who asked not to be named, told the Vientiane Times that Ngoy is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, with dramatic mountains, rivers flowing between limestone peaks, and mist-shrouded valleys.
Popular activities include climbing Phou Pha Daeng and Pha Xom Nang mountains at sunrise to enjoy panoramic views of the sea of mist that forms in the valleys below, and visiting the historic Pha Thok cave.
Boat trips along the Ou River to the old Ngoy community - a village where visitors can experience the local lifestyle through home-stays - are another highlight, along with rafting tours.
Authorities hope that by preserving its pristine landscapes and improving services, Ngoy can secure its place as a top ecotourism destination in northern Laos. - Vientiane Times/ANN
