Management towards Buddhist Meditation Tourism in Central Isan: A case of Khon kean and Mahasarakham Province

Abstract

This research aims to study the concept of Buddhist meditation practice, to evaluate Management potentials and Buddhist meditation touristic activities in the Central Isan: Case of Khon Kaen and Mahasarakham provinces. The research was completed by applying mixed research methods: quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative survey was employed to collect information from 400 samples. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics: percentage, mean, and standard deviation. For qualitative research, an analysis was conducted by using data attained from in-depth interview schedule and participant observation with 30 participants. Both data were analyzed for content and data with descriptive statistics.
There were 4 findings in the concept of Buddhist meditation practice in the Central Isan: 1) “Bud-dho”, 2) “Yub-Phong”, 3) “Movement” and 4) “Goenka. The management potential of the area is unique in the course of Buddhist meditation practice for both Thais and international programs. There are a variety of practice diaries ranging from 3 to 30 days and have a clear pattern of practice. The most popular tourist activities are the Buddhist meditation practice, the Buddha worship and chanting. The tourists spend 1-3 days for tourism.