Impact of Tourism Growth on the Changing Landscape of a World Heritage Site: Case of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

Tourism growth in Luang Prabang has paradoxically strengthened its heritage elements while also raising concerns about landscape transformation. Research combining GIS analysis with statistical methods revealed that buildings transitioning to touristic use were more likely along riverbanks than inland, and this shift correlated with architectural changes—such as adopting Lao traditional styles, switching roof materials from modern to traditional, and using modern building materials instead of traditional ones. These findings highlight how tourism can both preserve heritage aesthetics while altering the built environment, warranting closer monitoring by conservation authorities.

Leong, C., Takada, J.-i., Hanaoka, S., & Yamaguchi, S. (2017). Impact of Tourism Growth on the Changing Landscape of a World Heritage Site: Case of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR. Sustainability, 9(11), 1996. https://doi.org/10.3390/su9111996