Nan, a province steeped in the charm and mystique of Lanna culture, is being promoted by the government for World Heritage status alongside Luang Prabang in Laos PDR. he province has been actively preparing by educating its citizens and improving infrastructure, including land and air transportation systems.

Three Reasons Why Nan Province Is Being Considered for World Heritage Status:

1. Beauty Similar to Luang Prabang: Many have remarked that Nan resembles Luang Prabang, a famous World Heritage city in the Lao PDR. Linking these two cities will strengthen cultural tourism in the region.
2. Rich Cultural and Natural Resources: Nan boasts abundant natural resources and a long history. The province is home to diverse cultures and traditions, as well as significant archaeological sites, including ancient stone tools, kilns, and temples that reflect its historical prosperity.
3. A Committed Community: Nan's strong sense of community and shared dedication to preserving its heritage have earned it the title of a "living ancient city." Efforts to educate the public about the province's history and cultural significance are ongoing.

These reasons make Nan an alluring destination for both Thai and international tourists. Visitors are captivated by the cultural attractions and the serene, unhurried lifestyle, embodying the essence of slow life.

Initiative to Connect Nan and Luang Prabang: 

The Ministry of Culture (MoC), through the Nan Provincial Cultural Office (PCO), has proposed two sub-projects to the Cabinet, with a total budget of 7 million baht, to support Nan's bid for World Heritage status:

1. Project to Raise Awareness and Understanding of Cultural Heritage History in Nan Province for World Heritage Status: This project includes initiatives to raise awareness among government agencies, private sectors, communities, and the public. It also involves the creation of educational materials, including knowledge books and online dissemination.
2. Project to Study Cultural Heritage Sites to Propel Nan Province Towards World Heritage Status: This involves studying and evaluating the value of cultural heritage sites, compiling knowledge, and creating academic documents to propose Nan's cultural heritage sites to UNESCO.

Nan's consideration as a cultural World Heritage city will not only promote cultural tourism but also drive Thailand's tourism soft power, stimulating the economy and generating income for local people and communities.

For more information about this project, you can visit the Ministry of Culture's website or call the hotline at 1765.

Additional Information: Government Public Relations Department, Prime Minister's Office

Link: www.thaigov.go.th