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Director of the Luang Prabang provincial Information, Culture and Tourism Department, Dr Soudaphone Khomthavong (right), receiving an award at the ITB Berlin 2025 convention in Germany. - VT |
Luang Prabang, the jewel of northern Laos, has just added another feather to its cap. The World Heritage town has been awarded a 2025 Green Destinations Top 100 Story Award, coming in third place in the “Destination Management” category. This prestigious accolade was presented at ITB Berlin 2025, the world’s leading travel trade show held from March 4–6 in Germany.
This recognition places Luang Prabang among the world’s leading sustainable tourism destinations, spotlighting its achievements in inclusive destination development, thoughtful visitor management, and resilient crisis recovery.
Leading the Way in the Region
Luang Prabang’s success marks a first for Laos — it is the only destination among Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam to receive the award. This milestone speaks volumes about the town’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing responsible tourism practices.
Dr Soudaphone Khomthavong, Director of the Luang Prabang Provincial Information, Culture and Tourism Department, announced that efforts are now underway to meet the criteria for full Green Destination Certification. This internationally recognised certification assesses six key pillars: destination management, natural beauty, environmental responsibility, cultural preservation, community well-being, and effective communication.
A Heritage Town with a Sustainable Vision
Luang Prabang has long captured the hearts of visitors with its golden-spired temples, French colonial architecture, Mekong sunsets, and serene atmosphere. But beneath its postcard-perfect charm lies a deep, ongoing effort to maintain harmony between tourism and tradition.
Since being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, the town has become a model of conservation-minded tourism. From preserving ancient buildings to supporting community festivals and encouraging local craft industries, Luang Prabang has embraced tourism as a means to empower rather than exploit.
A Hidden Paradise No Longer
International attention is nothing new for this riverside town. In 2023, Time magazine named Luang Prabang one of the world’s “50 Greatest Places to Visit,” praising its turquoise waterfalls, Buddhist temples, and tranquil boat rides on the Mekong River.
Popular sights include the sacred Phu Si stupa, the cascading beauty of Kuangxi waterfall, and the bustling night market at the heart of the old town. Visitors often find themselves swept up not just by the views, but by the pace of life — calm, contemplative, and culturally rich.
A Greener Future Ahead
As Luang Prabang sets its sights on becoming fully Green Destination Certified, the town’s leadership is doubling down on efforts to enhance sustainability across all sectors of tourism. This includes better environmental protections, stronger support for local communities, and transparent communication with travelers.
This award is more than a trophy — it is a signal to the world that Luang Prabang is not just preserving its past, but actively shaping a more conscious and resilient tourism future.
For more information, visit:
https://www.greendestinations.org/
www.tourismlaos.org
https://www.tourismluangprabang.org/
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