Book Explores Modern Thai Temples as Spiritual Theme Parks

"Buddhiland: The Modern Thai Temple Faith Frontier" by Pinyaphan Pojanalavanya

When people think of "temples," they typically envision religion, merit-making, architecture, sacred places, markets, and temple fairs that have become tourist destinations—yet most never question whether such activities are truly religious in nature.

Buddhism in Thailand has grown alongside various spiritual beliefs and practices, collectively termed "muteelu." This has created a social phenomenon blending faith with commerce, transforming into a tourism industry that has been a vital revenue source for Thailand since the 1960s. Both foreign and Thai visitors now treat temples as major destinations, making temple visits function more like spiritual theme parks focused on entertainment and knowledge rather than traditional merit-seeking.

"Buddhiland" examines how capitalism and consumerism have reshaped temples—transforming them from purely religious sites into hybrid attractions that combine merit-making, belief, and excitement through magnificent architecture, storytelling, and faith that draws visitors to celebrate success and fulfill wishes.

The book investigates the "Buddhist commerce" phenomenon and questions how Thai temples have changed in contemporary society. It traces these spiritual destinations through successive chapters: Why Buddhiland Exists; Buddhist Diversity and Giant Sacred Structures; Buddhiland's Formation Before the 1997 Economic Crisis; Thai Spiritual Theme Parks After the 1997 Crisis; Temples in the Era of the 2014 Coup, COVID-19, and Economic Collapse.

"Buddhiland: The Modern Thai Temple Faith Frontier" by Pinyaphan Pojanalavanya, 304 pages, black-and-white illustrations. Special price: 281 baht (regular 330 baht). Preview available at https://bit.ly/4x40UP9. Order at https://linktr.ee/BuddhistLand