Gateway to Three Nations: Quang Tri Strengthens Cross-Border Tourism Along the East–West Economic Corridor

Hien Luong Bridge over the Ben Hai River in Quang Tri

Viet Nam’s Quang Tri province is emerging as a strategic hub for cross-border travel in mainland Southeast Asia, as it works closely with Thailand and Lao PDR to enhance tourism linkages along the East–West Economic Corridor. Recent famtrip activities and industry discussions are positioning the province as a key destination for overland journeys, caravans, and multi-country travel experiences.

Building Tourism Connections Across Borders

On 27 November, the Quang Tri Tourism Association hosted a panel discussion focused on developing tourism products along the East–West Economic Corridor. The event formed part of the Caravan Famtrip Programme themed “Experiencing Quang Tri Heritage” and welcomed Thai and Lao famtrip delegations alongside representatives from management agencies and tourism businesses.

Participants exchanged market insights and explored practical measures to strengthen cross-border cooperation, with particular emphasis on overland routes linking Viet Nam, Laos, and Thailand. The discussions highlighted the growing appeal of self-drive tours and regional travel circuits that allow visitors to experience multiple countries in a single journey.

A Diverse Tourism Landscape in Central Viet Nam

Quang Tri offers a rich and varied tourism resource base that blends coastline, history, and nature. Along the coast, Cua Viet Beach presents strong potential for marine tourism, while nearby Cua Tung, often referred to as the queen of beaches, is known for its calm waters, gentle scenery, and fine white sands.

The province is also deeply rooted in history and culture. Key sites such as the Vinh Moc Tunnels, Hien Luong Bridge and Ben Hai River, and the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel attract visitors interested in Viet Nam’s past and heritage tourism. These landmarks add depth and meaning to travel experiences along the East–West route.

Nature and Heritage Along the Corridor

Nature-based tourism further strengthens Quang Tri’s appeal. The province lies close to Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site famous for its spectacular cave systems, including Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave. These natural wonders complement coastal and cultural attractions, allowing tour operators to design diverse itineraries that cater to a wide range of traveller interests.

This combination of beaches, caves, and historical landmarks makes Quang Tri well suited for multi-theme tourism products that can be marketed across borders.

Strategic Border Gates Drive Overland Travel

A representative of the Thai famtrip delegation
speaks at the event. (Photo: VNA)

Quang Tri benefits from two important border gates along the East–West Economic Corridor. Lao Bao International Border Gate provides a direct land connection with Laos and onward to Thailand, making it a vital entry point for road travellers. Cha Lo Border Gate also supports cross-border trade and tourism, reinforcing the province’s role as a transport and tourism gateway.

According to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, these advantages are already contributing to the growth of caravans and self-drive tours. Authorities plan to strengthen business partnerships, develop multi-country routes combining beach, cave, cultural, and historical experiences, and attract more regional road travellers.

Toward Integrated Regional Tourism

During the famtrip event, Thai and Lao delegations shared valuable feedback and proposed deeper cooperation to enhance tourism linkages with Quang Tri. Future efforts will focus on improving service quality, accommodation standards, and transport infrastructure, while encouraging investment partnerships that support sustainable tourism development.

As Viet Nam continues to promote regional connectivity, Quang Tri’s active role along the East–West Economic Corridor highlights its potential as a gateway destination connecting three countries through shared heritage, landscapes, and travel experiences.

Web contact details: 

Viet Nam’s Quang Tri province
https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/en/tags/Quang-Tri-Province

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