Religious Tourism in Northern Thailand

This insightful exploration highlights the interactions between tourists and monks in Religious Tourism in Northern Thailand, revealing the complexities of cultural exchange.

In Religious Tourism in Northern Thailand, the author explores the vibrant intersections of culture, spirituality, and tourism in the temple-rich city of Chiang Mai. This locale is not only a hub for tourists but also a living space for saffron-robed monks who engage in daily life, embodying the essence of Buddhism that is both revered and commodified. The book delves into the complexities of these interactions, highlighting how they transcend mere tourism to foster meaningful exchanges between visitors and monks.

Through comprehensive fieldwork and interviews with student monks and tourists, the author sheds light on the innovative approaches that Thai Buddhist temples adopt to facilitate cultural understanding. The popular Monk Chat sessions, where tourists engage directly with monks, serve as a platform for religious instruction and personal inquiry, allowing for a deeper appreciation of Buddhism. These encounters reveal how sacred spaces can nurture awareness of self and others, enriching both the visitor's experience and the monks' perspectives.

Moreover, Religious Tourism in Northern Thailand examines the broader implications of these interactions in the context of globalization. It reflects on how monks perceive other religions and cultures, and how they navigate their representation of Buddhism in a rapidly changing world. This study offers valuable insights into the adaptation of religious traditions, making it a significant contribution to the understanding of contemporary religious tourism.