TEMPLE DEVELOPMENT AND A NEW DIMENSION OF RELIGIOUS TOURISM: THE PARTICIPATION OF REVERED MONKS IN ENHANCING SPIRITUAL VALUES AND COMMUNITY ECONOMY - A CASE STUDY OF WAT PA ACHIANG, KRAPHO SUBDISTRICT, THATUM DISTRICT, SURIN PROVINCE

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the role of Wat Pa Achiang, located in Krapho Subdistrict, Thatum District, Surin Province, as a religious and cultural center with strong potential to develop into a spiritual tourism destination. Particular emphasis is placed on the involvement of revered monks (Phra Kaeji Achan) as spiritual and cultural leaders who significantly contribute to both spiritual value enhancement and community-based economic development. A qualitative research methodology was employed, using in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis to explain the mechanisms of collaboration between the temple and the local community.
The findings reveal that;
Wat Pa Achiang has successfully integrated local cultural capital such as beliefs related to elephants, sacred elephant rituals, annual merit-making traditions, and local handcrafted products with Buddhist principles. This integration is facilitated by the central role of the monks in linking spiritual beliefs with community economic activities. The temple’s initiatives have stimulated employment, supported the sale of OTOP products, and enhanced the community’s identity in a systematic and sustainable manner. Policy recommendations derived from this study include promoting temples as cultural tourism hubs, encouraging collaboration between temples and local citizens, and utilizing temples as platforms for cultural education. Such strategies are expected to contribute meaningfully to long-term, sustainable local development.