Cultural Tourism Management and Creative Wisdom Along the Border of Loei Province

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1) study the development of cultural tourism routes and activities based on the creative wisdom of communities along the border areas in Loei Province; and 2) strengthen the development network for managing cultural tourism based on the creative wisdom of communities along the border areas in Loei Province. This study employed a qualitative research approach. The research instrument was in-depth interviews, with 30 key informants (monks and laypersons). Data were analyzed through in-depth interview analysis, focus group discussions, and the synthesis and summarization of research findings.
The findings revealed that:
1. Chiang Khan District and Tha Li District possess attractive tourist destinations. Chiang Khan Walking Street features a variety of shops and restaurants, along with activities such as Mekong River boat cruises. Tha Li District offers scenic viewpoints and trekking activities in the mountains along the Mekong River, as well as Wat Phra That Satcha. Tourism in both Tha Li and Chiang Khan allows visitors to experience beautiful natural landscapes and unique local cultures.
2. In terms of strengthening the network for managing cultural tourism and creative wisdom along the border areas in Loei Province, the communities of Wat Phra That Satcha in Tha Li District and Chiang Khan District are notable for their distinctive management of cultural tourism resources. The participatory network-building process involves collaboration among partner organizations. This process begins with stakeholder coordination, followed by stakeholder meetings, the selection of a community network working committee, and effective network management and administration. It is recommended that local people be encouraged to directly participate in policy formulation, together with religious leaders, as these leaders possess expertise in.