A STUDY OF GUIDELINES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF BUDDHIST TOURISM AT WAT THAM ERAWAN, WANG THONG SUBDISTRICT, NA WANG DISTRICT, NONG BUA LAMPHU PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to: (1) investigate the history, legends, and narratives of Wat Tham Erawan, Wang Thong Subdistrict, Na Wang District, Nong Bua Lamphu Province; (2) examine the current conditions and potential of the area for tourism development; and (3) propose guidelines for Buddhist tourism development at Wat Tham Erawan. This study employed a qualitative research methodology through documentary research and fieldwork. Data collection instruments included in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Key informants consisted of monks, community leaders, local scholars, and residents, totaling 34 participants. Data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive interpretation.
The findings revealed that: 1) Wat Tham Erawan evolved from a secluded meditation retreat for Vipassana monks into a significant spiritual center for the local community. Its legends and narratives contribute substantially to faith construction, social cohesion, and the preservation of local cultural identity, thereby enhancing the temple’s spiritual and cultural significance as a form of Buddhist cultural capital. 2) The temple demonstrates strong potential for development as a Buddhist cultural tourism destination due to its rich natural resources, distinctive religious architecture, and tranquil environment suitable for meditation practices. Nevertheless, limitations remain in systematic management, tourism services, public relations, and sustainable community participation. And 3). Appropriate development guidelines should emphasize integrated management approaches, including heritage conservation, systematic tourism management, Buddhist cultural learning and interpretation, community-based participation, and digital public relations. Such approaches would enhance Wat Tham Erawan as a sustainable Buddhist cultural tourism destination capable of generating meaningful spiritual and cultural experiences for visitors.