EXPERIENCE TOURISM MANAGEMENT IN KOH LAT E TAN COMMUNITY, SAM PHRAN DISTRICT, NAKHON PATHOM PROVINCE

Abstract

The current research article was aimed to; 1) examine the local context and indigenous knowledge; 2) study the existing tourism management model; and 3) propose guidelines for experience-based tourism management grounded in biodiversity and local wisdom in Koh Lat E Tan, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province. This qualitative research study employed survey forms and interview guidelines. The research sample were selected through purposive sampling with 30 participants and convenience sampling with 50 participants, totaling 80 participants.

               The research findings were revealed that firstly, Koh Lat E Tan community has maintained a simple and self-sufficient way of life. Almost of the residents have engaged in agriculture. The community has preserved its traditional customs for adapting and integrating into tourism activities. Secondly, the tourism management model has been an agricultural-based tourism system combining with cultural elements. Its unique identity has been reflected through natural attractions, architecture, arts, and culture, as well as community lifestyle. They have been integrated into cultural capital that has evolved alongside the development of the area. Thirdly, the proposed guidelines for experience-based tourism management grounded in biodiversity and local wisdom in Koh Lat E Tan have included utilizing cultural capital, indigenous knowledge, and spatial resources as foundations for designing tourism routes that reflect local identity; empowering community scholars to serve as cultural interpreters through local museums and learning activities; developing agricultural, cultural, and religious attractions in an integrated and distinctive manner; promoting the design of souvenirs that representing community identity, architecture, and way of life; and fostering a creative economy rooted in cultural diversity to enhance value creation and generate sustainable income for the community.