Find Yourself Through Buddhism In Thai Culture

Every year, travelers from all corners of the earth flock to Thailand. Between the bustling streets of Bangkok, the pristine beaches of the Similan Islands, or the unspoiled landscapes of Thailand’s national parks, there is something here for everyone.

But still, others make the journey, not for the nightlife, nature, or the cuisine, but rather for more a personal and spiritual reward.

Ancient temples and shrines are spread all throughout the country, and the traditions that they represent still flourish in daily life. And for the traveler open to them, they present a rare opportunity to find yourself.

Find Yourself Through Thailand’s Buddhist Culture

Buddhism has a long history in Thailand. Since at least the fifth century, numerous sects of Buddhism have flourished throughout the Southeast Asian peninsula, Thailand included.

Today, more than 90 percent of the population subscribes to the Theravāda school, Buddhism’s oldest extant school. As such, most of the missions and monasteries you encounter in Thailand will subscribe to that sect.

Learning About Buddhism in Thailand

Among the most popular sites in the entire country are its numerous temples. Here, you will usually find a sermon hall that is open to the public. During the day, these areas are host to sightseers who have traveled to marvel at the splendor of the ancient treasures held within.

To those hoping to actually experience a glimpse of the spiritual life of these temples, many permit outsiders to attend sermons, prayer services with the monks, and to participate in the giving of alms.

Those who are open to them may strive to understand the four Noble Truths of Buddhism.

That with life comes suffering. That this suffering comes from our attachment to desires. That we each have the power to end this suffering by becoming impartial to our desires. And the final truth is the path we must take to reach the end of this suffering.

Finding Lodging and Amenities

Whether visitors are pilgrims or merely sightseers, Thailand’s Buddhist temples are among the countries most popular tourist attractions.

As such, finding hotels and accommodations is rarely difficult. And in your downtime between visits to shrines and temples, you will have the opportunity to experience contemporary Thai life away from crowded, modern environments like Bangkok.

Some monasteries and meditation centers will even offer food and lodgings to visitors. It’s important to note that these are only for people seriously interested in learning about meditation, Buddhist philosophy, and the monk’s lifestyle. Regular tourists must seek accommodation elsewhere.

Traveling in Search of the Self

There is scarcely a bad reason to travel, but if we were to rank them, undergoing a journey of self-discovery is one of the highest motivations that you could have.

Through your travels, you will have the opportunity to learn to live as your truest self. And by doing so, you will become better able to serve those around you.

There is no single way to find yourself, no handbook and where to go or why. Part of the process is finding your path. Perhaps this is your calling, to journey there and see what you can learn.