Enhancing the Community Eco-Tourism Routes of “Nakorn-Na-Nam” in Nakornchum, Na-Bua and Nam Khum Community, Nakorn Thai District, Phitsa Nulok Province

Abstract

This article aimed 1) to study and collect data on community assets in Nakhon Chum, Na Bua, and Nam Kum sub-districts, Nakhon Thai District, Phitsanulok Province; and 2) to enhance the community-based tourism route “Nakhon-Na-Nam” in Nakhon Chum, Na Bua, and Nam Kum sub-districts, Nakhon Thai District, Phitsanulok Province. The research was a qualitative study using the concepts of eco-community-based tourism and community capitals as its theoretical framework. The research area covered the three subdistricts mentioned above in Nakhon Thai District, Phitsanulok Province. The key informants included 10 individuals from local community enterprises and organizations: Sao Hai Sao Na Community Enterprise, Huan Toop Homestay, Nakhon Chum Homestay Club, Baan Suan Om Suk, community leaders/village heads, and representatives from local administrative organizations. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. The research tool was a community capital mapping process, designed to engage participants in data collection and identification of key community assets, which were then used to plan and enhance the eco-community-based tourism route. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis and presented through descriptive narration. The research findings revealed that 1) the community capitals of Nakhon Chum, Na Bua, and Nam Kum sub-districts include physical assets, natural resources, and historical and cultural heritage; 2) a tourism route map for the “Nakhon-Na-Nam” community tourism route connecting the three sub-districts was developed. The knowledge generated from this research included a foundational database of community capitals across the three sub-districts (covering natural resources, physical, historical, and cultural aspects) based on the joint community capitals mapping process, as well as the development of a community-based ecotourism network linking the communities in the area.