(KPL) Over the past year, Khammouane Province has focused on developing its natural, historical, and cultural tourism to attract more domestic and international visitors.

Mr. Somsackda Keomany, Deputy Director of the Information, Culture, and Tourism Department of Khammouane Province, said on January 26 that the government has designated 2024 as "Visit Laos Year 2024." As part of this initiative, Khammuan Province organized 27 tourism promotion activities, including one at the national level, two at the provincial level, and 24 at the district level.

Last year, the central province welcomed over 852,080 visitors, surpassing the target by 70%.

Currently, Khammouane boasts 210 tourist sites, including 145 natural attractions, 33 cultural sites, and 32 historical landmarks.

Among the province’s most popular attractions are the Curtain Waterfall, Sikhottabong Stupa, Konglor Cave, Phuphaman Mountain, Nang Aen Cave, Tha Falang, and Xebangfai Cave. Popular activities include ziplining, mountain climbing, boat tours, camping, homestays, and trekking.

To further boost tourism, the province has also organized sports events such as boxing, volleyball, football, and cycling, along with cultural activities to strengthen ties between Laos and Thailand.

Additionally, Khammuan is set to host a trilateral tourism cooperation meeting involving three provinces from neighbouring countries. The province is also working with a renowned Thai YouTuber to create a tourism documentary for promotion on Facebook and YouTube.

Mr. Somsackda Keomany further emphasized that to sustain tourism growth in 2025, the provincial Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism will focus on improving and restoring existing tourist sites, developing new attractions, and expanding services.

Efforts will also be made to create diverse and high-quality tourism products while enhancing service standards.

Furthermore, the department will continue to coordinate with the public and private sectors to organize vibrant tourism promotion activities that integrate local traditions and cultural preservation. Tourism infrastructure will also be upgraded to enhance convenience, aesthetics, safety, and visitor experience.

KPL