(KPL) A delegation from the Department of Culture and Tourism of Khammuane Province visited Champasak Province from September 3–5, 2026, to exchange experiences and lessons on culture and tourism development.

The delegation, led by Mr. Manothong Phongsavat, Acting Head of the Department of Culture and Tourism of Khammuane Province, met with officials from the Department of Culture and Tourism of Champasak Province, led by Mrs. Tedavan Keophilavanh, Head of the Department.

The two sides exchanged experiences in key areas, including the development and management of model cultural villages, promotion of artists, regulation of artistic and literary performances, preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, and organisation of major traditional festivals such as the Wat Phou Festival.

In tourism, discussions covered the management and promotion of tourism businesses, including hotels, restaurants and tourist sites, collection of tourism statistics, assessment of Dok Champa and star ratings, and the management of tourism business associations, including the collection and use of tourism funds.

Mrs. Tedavan outlined Champasak's tourism potential, which is concentrated in four major zones: the Cultural-Natural Zone, Wat Phou World Heritage Zone, Bolaven Plateau Zone, and Siphandone (4,000 Islands) Zone.

In 2026, Champasak recorded more than 678,000 tourist arrivals and generated over US$110 million in tourism revenue, equivalent to 107 percent of the annual target.

Mr. Manothong highlighted Khammuane Province's tourism potential, which includes 210 major tourist attractions, particularly natural and historical sites associated with the Sikhottabong civilisation. More than 359,000 tourists visited the province during the first six months of 2026.

The two sides also discussed challenges, including access infrastructure to tourist sites, limited budgets for tourism promotion and the need to update regulations governing tourism businesses to keep pace with current developments.

The exchange was seen as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation and share practical experience between the two provinces in promoting sustainable development in culture and tourism.

KPL