Local Literature : Revival to Promote Nong Luang HistoricalTourism in Wiangchai Sub-District, Wiangchai District, Chiang Rai Province

Abstract

The research aimed 1) to survey the context and management of Nong Luang historical tourism in Wiang Chai Sub-District, Wiang Chai District, Chiang Rai Province, 2) to investigate, collect, and synthesize local literatures that related to Nong Luang historical tourism, and 3) to create public relation media both in Thai and English for promoting Nong Luang historical tourism. Research tools included Nong Luang historical context and tourism management survey, in-depth interview on local literature of Nong Luang, audio-visual recording, and evaluation form for public relation in print of Nong Luang's historical tourism. The population of the study were 50 of the local wisdom elite or sages, local leaders, and stakeholders in the Nong Luang area. The data was analyzed by content analysis and synthesis approach. The results were presented descriptively as follows.

1. Regarding the survey on the context and management of Nong Luang historical tourism, it was showed that the historical tourism management of Nong Luang has been operated since 1969 by the sub-district organization, Wiang Chai District Office, and Chiang Rai Provincial Office. A number of antiquities and archaeological sites were discovered such as Buddha images and ancient ruins with links to various places mentioned in the legend of Nong Luang.


2. In terms of the investigation, collection and synthesis of local literature that related to Nong Luang historical tourism, it was found that the only local literature that related to Nong Luang historical tourism was the Legend of Nong Luang. It was assumed that Nong Luang was once Yonok Chai Buri City that was sunken during the reign of King Maha Chaichana in 370 B.E. because the people killed and ate the giant white eel together. The places related to the legend such as Widow Island, Kok River, Rong Bur Village, Mae Nam Laol, and Wang Poo-Ud Cave.


3. Regarding the creation of the public relation media to promote Nong Luang historical tourism in Wiang Chai Sub-District, the booklets on the Legend of Nong Luang in both Thai and English were produced in order to disseminate and promote the historical tourism of Nong Luang.