The Design and Development of Tourism Route for Nine Temples Merit Making in Chainat Province

Abstract

The research paper surveys the demand of temple tourism and develops the tourism route to make merit in 9 temples in Chainat Province. The research employs survey, in-depth interview, observation and record tools. The key informants are abbots and committee members of the temples. The result of content analysis concludes that Bangkok residents express their demand in 9 temples merit making in Chainat. The first three priorities of their interests are to pay a respect to Luang Phu Suk, then other well-known Buddhist Monks and Wat Phra Barommathatuworaviharn. Nine temples are listed including Wat Thephiranya, Wat Pichainawas, Wat Mahathatu, Wat Prayapraek, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pakklong Makhamtaow, Wat Dhammamulvoraviharn, Wat Pha Chao Phraya, and Wat Phrabaromthatuvoraviharn. Ways of merit makings involve paying a respect to the Buddha image and applying gold leaves covering, almsgiving to the birthday Buddha Image, sacred watering, chanting of metta and blessing.