PARTICIPATORY MANAGEMENT OF CULTURAL CAPITAL  TO PROMOTE CULTURAL TOURISM OF KALASIN PROVINCE:  A BUDDHIST PERSPECTIVE

Chakkarin Sangsopha; Kittisan Sriruksa; Laddawan Indharagumhaeng; Sikarnmanee Syers

Authors

Chakkarin Sangsopha Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
Kittisan Sriruksa Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
Laddawan Indharagumhaeng Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
Sikarnmanee Syers Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand

Keywords:

Participatory Management, Cultural Tourism, Buddhist Perspectives, Kalasin Province

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Kalasin Province, located in northeastern Thailand, is rich in both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, including ancient archaeological sites, revered Buddhist temples, traditional Phu Thai and Pong Lang folk art, and longstanding community rituals. However, in recent years, the province has faced increasing challenges in preserving and managing this cultural wealth. Rapid urbanization, youth migration to urban centers, and the commodification of cultural practices for tourism have led to the dilution of traditional values and the erosion of authentic community participation in heritage activities. Additionally, local stakeholders have expressed concerns about the limited involvement of communities in tourism planning and the growing disconnect between tourism development and Buddhist ethical principles. This research explores the strategic integration of participatory cultural capital management in Kalasin Province with a particular emphasis on Buddhist perspectives. The core objectives were: To develop a sustainable model of cultural tourism rooted in Buddhist values and ethical responsibility, and to empower local communities to actively engage in decision-making processes that preserve and celebrate cultural expressions such as ceremonies, crafts, and indigenous knowledge. The study responds to the urgent need to balance economic modernization with cultural preservation by proposing an inclusive, community-led model of cultural tourism. It further addresses the threats of globalization by positioning Buddhist ethical principles and spiritual values as guiding frameworks for a more resilient and culturally grounded tourism strategy.

Methodology: This qualitative study followed a Participatory Action Research (PAR) design and utilized participatory observation (n = 100), semi-structured interviews (n = 19), and a focus group discussion (n = 7) involving local leaders, artisans, monks, tourism operators, and residents as key informants. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, guided by principles of cultural capital theory and Buddhist ethical frameworks. The study focused on identifying participatory mechanisms that enable community engagement in managing cultural resources and evaluating such involvement's socio-cultural impacts.

Main Results: Findings indicate that participatory management fosters a sense of ownership, enhances cultural pride, and contributes to the preservation of both tangible assets (e.g., Heritage Sites) and intangible practices (e.g., Rituals, Storytelling, Festivals). Local stakeholders actively engaged in shaping tourism initiatives, co-designing experiences that reflect authentic community values while appealing to visitors seeking meaningful cultural interactions. The research also found that such approaches build stronger social cohesion, facilitate intergenerational knowledge transfer, and promote adaptive strategies in response to globalization and modern influences. Educational programs and community forums were identified as critical tools for reinforcing cultural literacy and ensuring broad participation.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This study applied core Buddhist principles to guide the development of a participatory cultural tourism model in Kalasin Province. Grounded in Karuṇā (Compassion), Paṭiccasamuppāda (Interconnectedness), and Sotthi (Communal Well-Being),
these principles were integrated to promote ethical tourism practices rooted in cultural respect and social equity. Buddhism served not only as a cultural reference but also as a practical framework for fostering inclusion, dignity, and shared benefit among stakeholders. Within this model, cultural tourism becomes an expression of Dhamma in action, supporting spiritual growth, mindful engagement, and community harmony alongside economic sustainability.

Conclusions: This research concludes that participatory cultural capital management, when deeply rooted in Buddhist ethical perspectives, can transform tourism into a sustainable and spiritually enriching practice. By empowering local communities to co-create tourism experiences and manage cultural resources, the proposed model strengthens social resilience, preserves cultural heritage,
and enhances mutual understanding between tourists and local residents. The findings advocate for inclusive tourism strategies that are not only economically viable but also ethically aligned and culturally respectful, ensuring that Kalasin's unique identity is preserved and celebrated.
This Buddhist-informed participatory model offers a transferable framework for culturally rich regions aiming to balance traditional heritage with innovative tourism strategies rooted in ethical and spiritual principles.

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