Cartography for Cultural Tourism Attractions Around Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, Udon Thani, Thailand

Abstract

This research was conducted to develop tourist attractions, particularly cultural tourism sites, in the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site, Udon Thani, Thailand. The objective is to enhance spatial potential by applying Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map local communities for location determination, planning, and spatial development. The research methodology involved field surveys, recording the coordinates of cultural tourist attractions using the Global Positioning System (GPS), and utilizing GIS for mapping. The findings revealed that cultural tourist attractions in the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site area are categorized into four types: museums, religious sites, accommodations (homestays), and Resturants/street food. The distribution of most attractions is concentrated within the communities surrounding the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site. In conclusion, this mapping serves as a tool for local residents to plan cultural tourism sites, improve their quality of life, foster love and pride for their homeland, and increase income, leading to future tourism development.