VIENTIANE: A 10-year master plan aimed at transforming Nakasang, Done Deth and Done Khone islands into internationally recognised green tourism destinations has been launched in Khong district, Champasak province, marking a major step in tourism development in one of Laos’ most popular visitor destinations.
A meeting held in Champasak on June 3, to discuss the Tourism Development and Management Master Plan for Nakasang, Done Deth, Done Khone and surrounding areas for 2026-2036 was chaired by the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Suanesavanh Vignaket, and attended by government officials and stakeholders involved in tourism development.
The master plan forms part of the government’s long-term strategy to develop the Siphandone region into a modern tourism destination while preserving its natural environment, ecosystems, and local way of life.
According to the plan, development will follow a green and sustainable approach, ensuring that tourism growth is carefully managed and aligned with environmental conservation and community interests.
Officials say the master plan will serve as a guiding framework for future investment and infrastructure development, helping to prevent uncoordinated expansion while ensuring that facilities and services are developed in an orderly and sustainable manner.
Suanesavanh stressed the importance of strict implementation of the master plan. She said authorities must closely monitor development and take immediate action in line with the law if any construction or investment projects are found to be inconsistent with the plan.
Under the vision set out for 2036, Nakasang, Done Deth, Done Khone and surrounding areas along the Mekong River will become a nationally significant tourism destination renowned for their nature-based attractions, high quality, and environmentally responsible development.
The vision also seeks to maintain a balance between local livelihoods and tourism growth, offering visitors distinctive experiences that are rarely found in other countries.
The master plan aims to increase the value of tourism for local communities by creating new sources of income, expanding business opportunities, and preserving the area’s rich cultural heritage.
In addition, the plan prioritises improvements to infrastructure, tourism facilities and visitor services, while strengthening tourism management across Nakasang, Done Deth, Done Khone and neighbouring areas beyond existing visitor hotspots.
Another objective is to raise awareness of environmental protection and minimise the impacts of tourism development along the Mekong River, ensuring that the region’s natural assets can be preserved for future generations.
Authorities believe the plan will lay the foundation for sustainable growth in the Siphandone region and enhance its reputation as one of Laos’ leading green tourism destinations over the coming decade. - Vientiane Times/ANN
