KPL
Tourism in Luang Prabang Province declined significantly during this year’s Lao New Year festival, according to statistics released by the provincial Department of Information, Culture and Tourism for the period April 10–20, 2026.
A total of 68,126 visitors were recorded over the 10-day holiday, representing a 46 percent decrease compared to 126,846 visitors during the same period in 2025. Of the total, 27,251 were international tourists, down 42 percent, while 40,875 were domestic visitors, marking a 48 percent decline.
Despite the overall decrease, several international markets showed notable growth. China recorded the highest number of visitors at 2,102, an increase of 105 percent, followed by Vietnam with 1,025 visitors, up 142 percent. In contrast, arrivals from Thailand fell sharply to 1,207, a decline of 75 percent. Other key markets included Germany (624 visitors), the United States (331), South Korea (302), the United Kingdom (281), Japan (198), Canada (127), and France (around 300 visitors).
Tourist spending remained relatively strong. International visitors spent an average of about USD 300 per person per day and stayed for approximately five days. Domestic tourists spent around USD 109 per person per day, with an average stay of three days.
However, the decline in visitor numbers significantly affected tourism revenue. Total earnings fell from USD 97.5 million in 2025 to USD 54.2 million in 2026, reflecting the economic impact of reduced arrivals.
The data was provided by the Tourism Development Division under the Department of Information, Culture and Tourism of Luang Prabang Province.
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