STUDYING THE POTENTIAL AND ROUTES OF COMMUNITY TOURISM BASED ON THE BUDDHIST CULTURAL FOUNDATION, IN THE MUEANG CHONBURI DISTRICT, CHONBURI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aims to study the potential of community tourism based on Buddhist traditions, Buddhist traditions-based community tourism routes, and Buddhist traditions-based community tourism activities. This qualitative study involved 25 key informants: monks, tourists, and government officials. Data collection tools included in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and descriptive data analysis. The findings revealed that Buddhist traditions-based community tourism potential demonstrates readiness in terms of convenience, including online navigation and signage. Facilities include well-managed parking lots, clean restrooms, and an information center. Environmentally, temples exhibit beautiful Buddhist art and unique environments, attracting tourists. In terms of value and significance, these tourist attractions reflect religious and cultural values. Buddhist traditions-based community tourism routes are divided into several groups: temples that promote Buddhist traditions-based community tourism, emphasizing the beauty of Buddhist art, such as Wat Saen Suk Suthiwararam; temples that promote traditional and Buddhist cultural tourism, emphasizing cultural activities and guru monks, such as Wat Tan Lom and Wat Ang Sila; and temples that serve as learning centers for history, community, and Buddhism, such as Wat Yai Intharam. (Royal Monastery) and Wat Ton Son and the group of temples that emphasize the practice of Dhamma according to Buddhist principles, including outside temples and ancient temples. As for community tourism activities based on the foundations of Buddhist culture, which are organized within each temple, such as paying homage to Buddha images, studying history, and practicing Dhamma.