Potential Upgrading of Cultural Tourism Communities for Sustainable Tourism of Chae Son Subdistrict Mueang Pan District, Lampang Province

Abstract

This study aims to 1) develop the potential of the cultural tourism community for sustainable tourism in Chae Son Subdistrict, Mueang Pan District, Lampang Province, and 2) propose guidelines for enhancing the sustainability of cultural tourism in the area. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating both quantitative and qualitative research. The quantitative data were collected through assessment forms from five individuals involved in the tourism sector in Lampang Province and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with fifteen representatives from local enterprises and relevant agencies. Data were analyzed using content analysis to draw systematic conclusions and interpretations for developing a sustainable cultural tourism model.

The results reveal that Chae Son Subdistrict possesses abundant natural resources, a favorable climate, and a rich cultural heritage characterized by hospitality and warmth. The community has developed self-reliance through various local learning centers and has strengthened its potential in five major areas: 1) management of cultural heritage and local resources, 2) sustainable management, 3) community participation, 4) learning activities and processes, and 5) conservation, restoration, dissemination, and value creation of cultural heritage. These developments have generated economic value, social cohesion, and shared cultural learning among community members.

          Guidelines for sustainable cultural tourism enhancement include: clearly defined tourism development directions by government agencies, promotion of community-based environmental and product management, encouragement of participatory decision-making and benefit-sharing, strengthening of local knowledge about natural and cultural resources, and fostering of cultural awareness through collaborative learning between residents and visitors.