An Analysis of Appropriate Buddhist Tourism Management for Wat Pa Phutthachinawongsaram. Phayao Province

Abstract

This thesis has two objectives: 1) to study the general conditions of Buddhist tourism management in Thai society. And 2) to analyze an appropriate form of Buddhist tourism management for Wat Pa Phutthachinawongsaram. The research methodology is documentary-based. using descriptive analysis for reporting.

              The results reveal that Buddhist tourism management in Thai society is characterized by four key elements: (1) emphasizing the organization of physical and environmental conditions to support spiritual learning. (2) organizing Buddhist and cultural activities to promote faith and preserve local wisdom. (3) developing the mind and wisdom of visitors through experiential learning of the Dhamma. and (4) creating participation among local communities and relevant stakeholders in all processes. For Wat Pa Phutthachinawongsaram. Phayao Province. the in-depth analysis shows that the appropriate model for Buddhist tourism management is an “integrated management model” which balances and connects religious. cultural. and community-based economic dimensions. The principle of sappāya is applied to the design of space and the organization of activities in order to facilitate Buddhist practice. while the local community plays a participatory role in planning. in service provision. and in the transmission of local wisdom. The success of this model is supported by: strong religious leadership. cooperation from the local community. the application of Buddhist principles to modern tourism management. and the use of technology for public communication.