The Relationship between Language and Culture in the Names of Natural Tourist Attractions in Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This article has two purposes: to study the structure of natural tourist attraction names in Chiang Mai Province and to examine the cultural reflections in those names. The study  identified 87 natural tourist attraction names in Chiang Mai Province, which can be structurally categorized into five formats: 1) Topography + Specific Characteristic, such as Hua Sing Mountain and Ngoep Cliff, 2) Topography + Specific Name, such as Pu Muen Mountain and Siri Phum Waterfall, 3) Topography + Community, such as Ban Nong Khrok Hot Springs and Mueang On Cave, 4) Topography + Quality, such as Op Luang and Pan Pi Forest, and 5) Topography + Specific Characteristic + Quality, such as Huai Sai Lueang Waterfall and Sing Liao Cliff. The cultural aspects reflected in these names are divided into three categories. First, the names reflect the notable physical features of the locality, such as water resources, plateaus, and forests, which are significant, unique, and prominent in Chiang Mai Province. Additionally, plant names, comparisons, and numerical references unique to the locality are used to extend the names of natural tourist attractions. Second, the names reflect the diversity of ethnic groups. Chiang Mai Province has been home to many ethnic groups, from the past to the present, which have expanded into communities that play important roles in society and Lanna culture. Third, the names reflect beliefs in Buddhism, spirits and sanctity, which are intertwined with the naming process.