Development of Cultural Geography to Promote Buddhist Tourism of Temples in Muang District, Kanchanaburi Province

Abstract

This research article aims to 1) study the cultural geography in promoting Buddhist tourism at temples in Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province, 2) design and develop the cultural geography to promote Buddhist tourism at temples in Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province, and 3) extract lessons learned from Buddhist tourism landscape architecture at temples in Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province. The findings reveal that the development of cultural geography to promote Buddhist tourism in Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province, integrates nature, religion, and local culture to create valuable and sustainable tourism experiences. It focuses on allowing visitors to experience peace, faith, and learning about Buddhism within the unique context of the area. The study highlights four important temples: Wat Tham Mangkhon Thong, Wat Tham Khao Laem, Wat Tham Muni Nath, and Wat Tham Khao Pun. Each temple has distinct geographical and cultural features that connect with the local context. The development and design of cultural geography to promote Buddhist tourism consist of six key components: cultural tourism resources, the significance of Buddhism, community economic enhancement, tourist services, community participation, and raising awareness among stakeholders. The extraction of lessons and the creation of a Buddhist tourism network is termed "The Landscape of Temple Tourism According to the Four Noble Truths." The temples are categorized based on the Four Noble Truths: Wat Tham Mangkhon Thong (Dukkha), Wat Tham Khao Laem (Samudaya), Wat Tham Muni Nath (Nirodha), and Wat Tham Khao Pun (Magga). This framework helps ensure that the development of cultural geography can preserve and promote cultural and historical values, while also encouraging learning about Buddhism, ultimately fostering faith and accumulating merit for future visitors.