This research focuses on finding the value of local communities in Thailand and measuring the perception of local communities on the values of cultural heritage tourism and on the quality of life. The research scopes used in this study was to collect data from local people as a database, which was found by searching for local community values and creating a research tool to map the relationship between the values of cultural heritage tourism and activities relevant. This will be used to measure the perception of local communities in Thailand. The study found that most Thais recognise that the values of cultural heritage tourism has positive effects rather than negative effects, recognising that cultural heritage tourism has the most benefits economic impact, followed by culture, society and environment, respectively as well as the cultural heritage tourism has the most negative impact on the environment, followed by social, cultural and environmental issues.

1. 1
Thesis
Witsathit Somrak 2018

2. 2
Budapest Metropolitan University
THESIS
Cultural and Heritage tourism management:
The value of cultural and heritage assets in
Thailand.
Name of Supervisor: Author of theThesis
Smith Melanie Key Program:
Smith Melanie Key
Budapest
2018

3. 3
Abstract
This research focuses on finding the value of local communities in Thailand and
measuring the perception of local communities on the values of cultural heritage tourism
and on the quality of life. The research scopes used in this study was to collect data from
local people as a database, which was found by searching for local community values and
creating a research tool to map the relationship between the values of cultural heritage
tourism and activities relevant. This will be used to measure the perception of local
communities in Thailand. The study found that most Thais recognise that the values of
cultural heritage tourism has positive effects rather than negative effects, recognising that
cultural heritage tourism has the most benefits economic impact, followed by culture,
society and environment, respectively as well as the cultural heritage tourism has the most
negative impact on the environment, followed by social, cultural and environmental
issues.
Keywords: Cultural Heritage, tourism management, value, Thailand.

4. 4
Table of Contents
Page
Abstrac 3
Chapter one
Introduction 6
1. Back ground of the study 6
2. Cultural Heritage Tourism background in Thailand 8
3. Statement of the problems 11
4. Objectives of the study 12
4.1 Gerneral objective 12
4.2 Specific objective 12
5. Scope of the study 12
6. Significance of the study 13
7. Limitation of the study 13
8. Organization of the study 13
Chapter two
Literature review
1. What is the Cultural HeritagTourism? 14
2. Impact of Cultural Heritage Tourism 17
2.1 Positive Socio-Cultural Impacts 20
2.2 Negative Socio-Cultural Impacts 21
2.3 Positive Environmental Impacts 22
2.4 Negative Environmental Impacts 23
2.5 Positive Economic Impacts 24
2.6 Negative Economic impacts 25
3. Cultural heritage tourism management 26
Chapter three
Research design and method
1. Areas of the survey 32
2. Respondents 32
3. Research tools 34
4. Data collection 35

5. 5
Chapter four
Results and discussion
1. The social value of Cultural Heritage tourism 36
1.1.Conclusion of social value of Cultural Heritage tourism 36
2. The environmental value of Cultural Heritage tourism 37
2.1. Conclusion of the environmental value of Cultural Heritage tourism 38
3. The economic value of Cultural Heritage tourism 39
3.1.Conclusion of the economic value of Cultural Heritage tourism 40
4. The general management methods and issues of cultural heritage tourism
inThailand 42
4.1.Conclusion of the general management methods and issues of cultural
heritage tourism in Thailand 44
5. The supporting of Cultural Heritage Tourism in Thailand 44
5.1. Conclusion of the supporting of cultural heritage tourism in Thailand 45
6. The negative effects of preserving and using cultural heritage assets 46
6.1.Conclusion of the negative effects of preserving and using cultural
heritage assets 47
7. The most relevant actors in the sustainable preservation and use of
cultural heritage assets 49
8. What is Thailand famous for historically? And why is famous? 51
9. The recommendation of cultural heritage sites that the tourists must
visit: 4 regions of Thailand 53
10. Technology plays an important role in tourism 54
11. The challenges and opportunities of cultural heritage tourism in Thailand 55
Chaper five
Conclusion and suggestion 57
References 60
Appendices 64

6. 6
Introduction
1. Background of the study.
Cultural heritage strategies in many countries can be used to promote local culture and
help to spread the seasonal and geographical aspects of tourism (Richards, 1996)[1].
WTTC or The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC, 2006)[2] demonstrated the
tremendous scale of the world’s tourism sector and pointed out that the travel and tourism
industry accounted for 13.2% of world GDP, had a turnover of US $6,477.2 billion, and
employed 234 million people (8.7% of total world employment). It is therefore clear that
tourism is a dominant driving force in the global economy, a vital and globally important
activity. Also, tourism has been remarkable regarding resistance to unfavourable
economic and political conditions (Cooper et al., 2008)[3]. One particular case of tourism
is cultural heritage tourism, where “cultural heritage” can be defined as the monuments,
buildings and archaeological sites of outstanding universal value from the point of view
of history, art or science (Huh, 2002)[4].
As tourists begin to become more sophisticated, the need to revive the past increases.
Visitors often visit cultural heritage according to Huh (2002)[4]. Cultural heritage tourism
has many benefits for tourists and the public as well as the government. First, cultural
heritage tours protect the historical, cultural and natural heritage of the city and the
country. Second, cultural heritage tours will educate the public and tourists about local
and regional history and traditions. By researching and developing cultural heritage
destinations, there will be a better expression of local, historical and cultural values which
can be shared with the tourists and local residents, creating a closer and stronger
community.1
1. Richards, G. (1996). Production and consumption of cultural tourism in Europe. Annals of
Tourism Research, 23(2), 261-283.
2. WTTC (2006). http://www.wttc.org
3. Cooper, C., Fletcher, J., Wanhill, S., and Gilbert, D. (2008). Tourism: Principles and Practice. (3rd
ed.). Harllow: Pearson Education
4. Huh, J. (2002). Tourist satisfaction with cultural/heritage sites: The Virginia Historic Triangle.
Thesis for the degree of Master of Sciences in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Virginia
Polytechnic Institute and State University.

7. 7
Knowledge of cultural heritage provides continuity and community context, which
respects housing, strengthens national values, builds community pride and improves
quality of life. Fourth, cultural heritage tourism promotes a social, environmental or
economic environment for the citizens of a community or region. Social-cultural,
environmental and economic benefits, as well as the creation of new jobs in the tourism
industry, cultural attractions and tourism-related businesses. Economic Diversification in
the Service Industry (Restaurants, hotels or motels, breakfast accommodation, tours and
guides), manufacturing (arts and crafts, souvenirs, publications) and agriculture
(speciality gardens or farmers markets). Higher property values, increased retail sales and
significant tax revenue.
Tourism is widely recognised for concrete outcomes such as job creation, tax revenue,
and less tangible impact on quality of life. It can be traced back to the various forms of
tourism destinations such as agriculture tourism, arts tourism, cultural heritage, MICE,
sports and other related tourism activities. International tourism is the largest export
earner in the world and tourism is a key factor in balance of payments in many countries
(United Nations World Tourism Organization. 2007)[5].Cultural heritage tourism is a tool
of economic growth that attracts visitors from outside the communities, who are
interested in historical, art, science or the lifestyle of regional communities. The travelling
is focused on experiencing a cultural environment, including terrain, visual and
performing arts, and lifestyle, values, traditions, and activities. (Silberberg, 1995)[6]
Cultural tourism enhances interactions between different cultures, creates shared values
on the same platform, and promotes a positive corporate image and social relationships.
It is supported by the European Union (Hughes and Allen, 2005)[7]. In the integration
process of the European Union, the importance of cultural tourism has increased for the
city of Istanbul as it has been designated as the cultural capital of Europe (ECC) in 2010.2
5. United Nations World Tourism Organization. 2007;
http://www.unwto.org/aboutwto/org/menu.html.
6. Silberberg, Ted. (1995). “Cultural Tourism and Business Opportunities for Museums and
Heritage Sites.” ,5:61tnemeganaMmsiruoT 361 .563-
7. Hughes, H., Allen, D., (2005) “Cultural Tourism in Central and Eastern Europe: The Views of
Induced Image Formation Agents”, TourismManagement Vol. 26, pp. 173-183.

8. 8
Cultural tourism is the oldest form of travel and remains the backbone of the global travel
industry, according to the OECD (2009)[8]. Cultural tourism represents about 40% of
international tourism or 360 million tourists arrival in 2007; it was often difficult to
distinguish these cultural tourists from other tourists. The growing trend of the holiday
motives, they are particularly desirable for destinations that want to attract high-quality
tourism and high-value travellers.
2. Cultural Heritage Tourism background in Thailand.
Thailand (Kingdom of Thailand) Located in Southeast Asia and the capital city is
Bangkok (The longest city names in the world), Thailand covers a total area of
approximately 513,000 square kilometres (198,000 square miles) and the 12th largest in
Asia and is the 50th largest country in the world! Thailand is dividing into six regions:
North, Northeast, Central, South, East, and West (TAT. 2003-2018)[9]. And Thailand is a
member of The Pacific Asia Travel Association: PATA which has a common mission
among member countries to increase the value of tourism in member countries and to
attract more tourists to the country. Which has more than 100 countries, has signed an
agreement on sustainable tourism. Stimulation warning and control the development of
tourism in the member states, which the member states have provided tourism activities
in various forms, such as activities related to cultural heritage. (The Pacific Asia Travel
Association: PATA, 2006)[10]
Thailand has many tourist resources and a variety of natural resources. History, culture
and traditions, as well as the hospitality of the Thai people, are widely acknowledged to
be called "THE LAND OF SMILES". Siam Smile City is a tourist attraction to foreign
tourists around the world (Amonrat Wongpeng, 2009)[11]. Thailand has become a tourist
destination with many of the elements of tourism resources and can be broken into eight
types of tourism activities: Health tourism. Ecological tourism, Adventure tourism or-
8. Tourism Authority of Thailand: TAT. 2003-2018. https://www.tourismthailand.org/About-
Thailand
9. OECD (2009) The Impact of Culture on Tourism. OECD, Paris.
10. The Pacific Asia Travel Association:PATA, (2006); https://pata-thailand.org/about-pata/about-
pata-thailand/
11. Amonrat Wongpeng.(2009). RMUTTGlobal Business and Economics Review.Vol.4, No.2,
March. 39-57.

9. 9
Agro-tourism, Sports tourism, Cultural Tourism, Religious tourism, Cruise tourism and
tourism in man-made environments. (Economic and Social Statistics, 2014)[12].These are
the things that impress tourists. Relaxation is what everyone desires to promote a better
quality of life. They have a good relationship with each other between the visitors and
communities. This will affect the governments of different countries to be understood,
and closer together may be said that tourism. It is a medium that creates good relationships
between people of different religions. (Viraphon, 2011)[13]. The tourism industry is the
key earning incomes to Thailand, with 24.64 million international arrivals, generating
revenue of over 1.15 trillion Baht and 138 million Thai tourists generating revenue of
705,500 Baht in 2014. In the past year, the tourism industry has become the most
important industry in the country (Tourism Market Research Center, 2015)[14].
Regarding tourism in Thailand, among the reasons for the increase in tourism in the
1960s, a stable political climate and development, Bangkok is the link between
international air transport. Thailand is one of the first players in Asia to take advantage
of this new trend (Ouyyanont, 2001)[15]. Tourism was a key economic factor in the
Kingdom of Thailand in 2013. It is expected that Thailand's tourism will contribute to
Thailand's GDP. With the indirect impact of tourism, 20.2 percent (2.4 trillion baht) of
GDP in Thailand, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT, 2015)[16] uses the slogan
"Amazing Thailand" to promote Thailand internationally. In 2015, the "Discover
Thainess" campaign was sponsored. Most Asian tourists come to Bangkok to visit
historical, cultural and natural sites in the vicinity, and most Westerners not only travel
to Bangkok as main destinations but many travellers to the beaches and south islands.
Northern is a destination for hiking and adventure with a diverse and wilderness minority.
The least touristy region is in Northeastern Thailand. 3
12. Economic and Social Statistics Office. Survey of Traveling Behavior of Thai People in 2014.
National Statistical Office. Ministry of Information and Communication Technology
13. Viraphon Thongma, Winthra Leelapattana, Nuanchan Thongma.(2011). Sustainability of Chinese
communities in Mae Hong Son watershed, Fang district, Chiang Mai province. Chiang Mai:
Faculty of Tourism Development Maejo University.
14. Tourism Marketing Research Center. Travel compass January - March 2015
15. Ouyyanont P (2001). The Vietnam War and Tourism in Bangkok's Development, 1960–70.
(PDF). Southeast Asian Studies 39(2):157- 187.
16. Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) (2015). Travel and tourism,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tourism_in_Thailand.

10. 10
The Thai government has set up a separate travel division which has offices in the main
tourist areas and has a central emergency telephone number. Thailand is also planning to
be a regional Buddhist tourism hub, especially in the northeastern (Isan) region, while
developing tourism routes to link cultural heritage and tradition to promote tourism in the
past decade. (Tourist Police in Thailand, 2010)[17].
The growth of this sector has resulted in investment in more money in the country in
addition to other benefits (e.g. social and cultural). It is also possible to create many
careers, building jobs, resulting in a distribution of income to local people. This is the
economic revolution that underpins the development of the nation; it can be said that the
tourism industry is a key industry in driving the Thai economy and society. Tourism is a
growing industry and is vital to economic development and the society of Thailand, the
government has the policy to promote tourism and tourism has played a significant role
in developing the country for the first time when the tourism development plan is included
in the 4th National Economic and Social Development Plan until now (Narin, 2009: 1)[18].
The primary objective of tourism development is to be consistent with the development
plan. The national economy and the social issues are the focus of economic growth, and
the first goal is to generate employment, generate income and bring prosperity to the
region. It can be said that tourism creates jobs and helps to distribute income to the
community in all parts of the country. It also establishes a reputation for the country,
making it known to other countries as well. Also, cultural heritage tourism is community
wisdom that can be developed to conserve and generate income for the community. Also,
Boonlert (2005)[19] explains that cultural heritage tourism consists of 1) historical and
historical traces; 2) archaeology and museum; 3) traditional architecture; 4) sculpture;
Paintings, statues and carvings. 5) Religion including religious rituals. 6) Music and
17. Tourist Police in Thailand. (2010). Amazing-Thailand.com. Retrieved on 16 September 2010 from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tourismin_Thailand.
18. Narin Sangtrakul and teams. (2009). Research report on agricultural and chain production. Napat
of Nakhon Pathom Province for Tourism Development in Nakhon Pathom: Thailand Research
Fund.
19. Boonlert Chittangwattana (2005). Sustainable Tourism Development. Tourism Authority of
Thailand, Press & Design Co., Ltd.

11. 11
drama or film. 7) Language and literature. 8) Lifestyle clothing and food 9) various folk
traditions.
These intros are a summary of trends in cultural tourism research. In addition to the
literature review, this chapter discusses the case studies developed in this book to
illustrate the different paradigms in research on cultural tourism and the increasing
dynamics of qualitative approaches.
3. Statement of the problems.
Tourism is the most sensitive industry among the factors that are most sensitive to
political, economic, social and environmental circumstances. Some have short-term
effects, while other effects are likely in the long run, such as negative and positive. Fasco
and Nijkam (2009)[20] point out that the impact of tourism on socio-economic, social,
direct and indirect environmental impacts is positive or negative. Tourism may affect
demographic characteristics, social structure and relationships with economic activity and
sectoral change, social values, attitudes, culture and patterns of life, built environment,
and land use, natural and cultural heritage.
There are many forms of attractions, and these places have direct or indirect impacts on
tourism. As Ouma (1970: 96)[21] states, the most prominent attractions are natural
resources, history, antiquities, cultures, people's differences, potential tourist attractions.
Culture in this sense includes music, dance, drama, traditional customs, marriage
customs, death, naming, circumcision, sports inheritance, handicrafts, etc. Also, Furze et
al. (1996: 146)[22] argue that tourism may provide a vehicle or a way to translate values
that other people consider a natural area to be useful for people living in or near. The
problems and costs of locating natural resources and the host society to the extent that
may be more beneficial than the development benefits.4
20. Fusco Girad and Peter Nijkam. (2009). cultural Tourism and Sustainable Local Development.
21. Joseph P.M.B Auma: (1970) Evolution of Tourism in East Africa.
22. Furze, B., deLacy, T., and Birckhead, J., Culture, Conservation and Biodiversity; The Social
Dimension of Linking Local Level Development and Conservation through Protected Areas, John
Wiley & Sons, Brisbane, 1996.

12. 12
However, the values of cultural heritage tourism flow on the environment, economy and
society, especially values, attitudes and daily life practices and behaviour of the local
community is not yet explored. Therefore, this paper attempts to look into the values of
cultural heritage tourism on environment, economy and society in Thailand. It tries to
make sense of what values cultural heritage tourism effect on the overall life of the Thai's
communities. Towards this end, this study attempt to answers the following research
questions:
1. Is the cultural and heritage tourism in Thailand beneficial to the economy?
2. Is the cultural and heritage tourism in Thailand socially valuable?
3. Is the cultural and heritage tourism in Thailand environmentally positive?
4. What are the general management methods and issues of cultural heritage in
Thailand?
5. What are the negative effects of preserving and using cultural heritage assets in
Thailand?
4. Objectives of the study.
4.1. General objective.
The general objective of this study is to assess impact of cultural heritage tourism on
economy, environment and society.
4.2. Specific objectives.
1. To study the benefits of cultural heritage tourism on the economy, society and
environment in Thailand.
2. To study general management practices and issues related to cultural heritage
tourism in Thailand.
3. To study problems or obstacles and to make suggestions for cultural heritage
tourism management in Thailand.
5. Scope of the study.
Although Thailand is a country with many nationalities and ethnic groups, as well as
many natural and historical attractions, the scope of this study is limited in terms of
content and geography or area. This study has brought about the impact of cultural
heritage tourism in four regions of Thailand especially in the community areas in which
people are directly affected.

13. 13
6. Significance of the Study.
Tourism also plays an important role in the protection of cultural heritage, such as the
restoration of historical monuments and the preservation of local people's livelihoods, as
well as the conservation of the country's landscape such as forests and wildlife. And for
the provision of facilities and international understanding. Besides, efforts are being made
to evaluate and validate the value of cultural heritage tourism in Thailand. This study will
be important for potential correctional measures for further research that can help
policymakers and the tourism sector has provided the sub-sector of tourism and education
such as schools, colleges and universities, tour company and travel agency. It is hoped
that this study will increase the knowledge for Thais in dealing with the impact of tourism.
7. Limitation of the Study.
Tourism is a direct and indirect activity in both the service sector and other activities as
a result of these activities affecting local people. However, it is clear that this research is
limited by: The first limitation is that most of the research papers are found in the Thai
language, and most research has the same content that is sometimes confusing. The
second limitation is in the field of surveying, especially in universities and government
organisations, because of the complex contact process and long timescale, the number of
respondents, and time limitation while surveying, also the respondents are lacking
cultural heritage knowledge. The last constraint is the journey, because of the distance
between survey areas are far away from each other, and affects time management or
postpones a meeting.
8. Organisation of the Paper.
This research is divided into five chapters. The first chapter is an introduction and the
second is a review of related literature, which reviews the literature on the topic of
research. The third part is the method by which research identifies research methods and
methods of doing so, such as data collection and maintenance. The fourth chapter is a
description of the study area and the 'findings', which consist of several analytical and
interpretative tasks. The authors' summary and recommendations are contained in chapter
five.

14. 14
Literature review
1. What is the Cultural Heritage Tourism?
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has classified three types of
tourism. (Goeldner and Ritchies, 2006)[23] The first is nature tourism which is a tourist
who chooses to travel in natural resources, including Ecotourism, Marine Ecotourism,
Geological Tourism Geo-tourism, agro tourism and the second type is Cultural tourism,
which is a type of tourism including travel to cultural destinations such as Historical
Tourism, Cultural Tourism and Rural Tourism or Village Tourism, and the last type is
Special Interest Tourism, which is a type of tourism where tourists choose to visit
according to their special interests , for example, Health Tourism, Ethnic Tourism, Sports.
Tourism, Adventure Tourism, Homestay & Farm Stay, Long Stay, Incentive Tourism
etc,. In addition to the tourism types that the World Tourism Organisation has provided,
there are many types of tourism activities that can be classified by the Office of Economic
and Social Statistics and Tourism Authority of Thailand, for example, Health tourism is
a tourist destination where activities for health care are the goal of tourism or leisure, as
well as learning how to maintain physical and mental health to enhance the knowledge of
maintaining the good quality of life: Health tourism such as beauty surgery or plastic
surgery, weight loss, health check-ups, detoxification and health promotion such as Thai
massage, herbal steam bath, mineral bath.
Cultural Heritage Tourism is a branch of the tourism industry that is focusing on the
cultural heritage of the place where tourism occurs. "Traveling to places and activities
that represent stories and people in the past" (Cultural Heritage Tour 2016)[24] Cultural
Heritage tourism is a form of searching for an area that begins in terms of easy supply.
For example, visiting the areas which are important in term of heritage destinations. This
cultural heritage is associated with more distant past castles, gardens, old churches and
historical events, as well as significant cultural heritage worthy of protection and
presentation (Yale, 1991)[25].5
23. Richards, G. (1996). Production and consumption of cultural tourism in Europe. Annals of
Tourism Research, 23(2), 261-283.
24. Cultural Heritage Tourism. (2016). “What is Heritage Tourism”. (Online) Available from: www.
culturalheritagetourism .org. Accessed October10, 2016.
25. Yale, P. (1991). From tourist attractions to heritage tourism. Huntingdon: ELM.

15. 15
Cultural tourism is a journey to find a memorable place. And cultural experiences of areas
such as local life, food, landscape, environment, architecture, city or village, and other
places, as well as historical sites and cultural performances (Richard, 2004)[26] It is
difficult to define cultural tourism because it depends on the individual's perspective,
which certainly means something different to others, such as the view of tourists; Cultural
tourism means travelling for a cultural experience that is different from where they live
and their normal lives (Hennessey, 2008)[27]
The most common type of tourism in Thailand is "cultural tourism". In appreciation of
what represents the culture, traditions, ways of life, art in various fields, or participation
in activities that emphasise traditional culture. In addition, there is another type of
tourism, "religious tourism", which is considered to be a tourist attraction, with the
purpose of travelling, worshipping places of worship, sacred worship, worshipping
monks and including other religious activities such as meditation. The water-related
tourism is "cruise tourism", which is a journey by boat and it travels at very low speeds
along the river with beautiful views. (Office of Economic and Social Statistics, 2014)[28]
And cruise tourism is aimed at leisure and enjoyment from travel such as cruise ship
dining, cruises that provide accommodation and other services or cruises to watch the
shows, cruise sightseeing the riverside lifestyle and local culture and cruise to admire the
beauty of nature, for example. Lastly, the Office of Economic and Social Statistics and
Tourism Authority of Thailand include "Tourism in man-made environments.
"Recreation and entertainment" means travel to places or activities that are man-made
and important in history, archaeology, religion or culture such as zoos, amusement parks,
temples, historical sites in each period
26. Rigard, G. (2004). European Cultural Tourism : A view from Barcelona. A paper presented at
the workshop on national cultural tourism policy in Vienna, 2004.
27. Hennessey,SM. (2008) Study of Cultural Tourism: The Case of Visitors to Prince Edward Island.
Paper presented at the 4th World Conference for Graduate Research in Tourism, Hospitality and
Leisure, Antalya, Turkey.
28. Economic and Social Statistics Office Survey of Traveling Behaviors of Thai Nationals, 2014.
National Statistical Office, Ministry of Information and Communication Technology

16. 16
Culture means everything that is created by man, both concrete and abstract. It also means
the whole pattern of social behaviour inherited from the past through learning to innovate
to meet the needs and develop a living through the evolution of inheritance in order to
achieve prosperity and stability in the society, and lifestyle means the way of life of Thai
people from birth to death. This includes the necessary factors for living such as housing,
food, clothing, and medicines. Lifestyle also means knowledge of social, cultural,
intellectual, behavioural, or educational from past to present, Wisdom refers to the
knowledge, abilities and skills that result from the accumulation of experiences through
the learning process, the selection, the development, the succession to the solution and
the development of life and balance with the environment. Thai wisdom is prominent in
many fields such as agriculture, arts, literature and languages.
“It can be said that culture, the way of life and wisdom reflect the local people's ability,
resulting from the creation of wisdom, knowledge and diversification that harmonise with
nature. And these processes have passed through many periods of time, becoming
inherited as a way of life that suits Thai society and each culture and tradition of Thai
localities may have different forms, according to geography natural resources and
environment, but still their own identities, such as language, music, food and clothing.”
(Culture, lifestyle and wisdom, 2015)[29]
Cultural heritage is the knowledge and work of individuals or groups who have created,
developed, inherited and applied their way of life continuously and in accordance with
the social and environmental conditions of each community. This shows the identity and
diversity of the culture. Cultural heritage consists of architectural works, paintings,
sculptures, handicrafts, folk arts, knowledge, skills, practices, expressions in the
language, literature, performances, artisans, beliefs, customs, food rituals, etc. These
things have been inherited by the next generation. In practice, or in some cases, it is a
shared spirit of the community, and in some cases, it is still beautiful and of high artistic
value. Cultural heritage can be classified into 6 types as follows:6
29. “Culture, lifestyle and wisdom” (2015), Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture,
pg. 12; ISBN: 978-616-543-387-7: www.culture.go.th.

17. 17
1) Folk literature is the literature that is conveyed in the way of life of the villagers,
covering both literary and non-fiction such as folktales, narratives, chants or
verses in rituals, folk songs, idioms and proverbs, puzzles, greetings and texts.
2) Performing arts are expressions of emotions and stories, represented by the media
through the voices, such as singing or playing music and physical exercises such
as danceม gesture, music and performances in rituals and folk songs. etc.
3) Social Practices Rituals and festivals are expressions of popular behaviour and
inheritance, for example, beliefs, customs and rituals.
4) Knowledge of nature and the universe means the knowledge background and the
ability to live in harmony with nature and the universe of the people or
communities and localities, for instance, settlements, eating, health care,
management of natural resources and astrology.
5) Traditional craftsmanship refers to wisdom, skill, craftsmanship, material
selection, and creative tactics that reflect identity, reflecting the social and cultural
6) development of the people, such as fabrics and textiles product, or wickerwork,
pottery, metalware, wood, leather, jewellery and folk arts.
7) Sports, folk games and martial arts mean interpersonal or community interaction
for fun, relaxation, physical and mental development, which is a reflection of
social life and local identities such as folk sports, folk games and martial arts.
(Sukanya, 2009)[30]
2. Impact of Cultural Heritage Tourism
2.1 Positive Socio-Cultural Impacts
Engaging in public debate on the heritage of local communities and the best way to
motivate tourists to increase self-esteem and community pride among attendees. Some
people may find that there is something to engage and earn serious attention in public to
create new experiences that may give them confidence in a strong role within their
community. Others may feel more proud and stronger about where they live while their
cultural heritage initiatives have made them better aware of the history of the community.7
30. Sukanya Yensuk, cultural Officer. (2009). Intellectual Cultural Heritage: The Safeguarding of
Intellectual Cultural Heritage Group, Research and Development Bureau, Office of the National
Culture Commission, Ministry of Culture, pg. 5-12.

18. 18
Involving participants from different lifetimes, the community building process will
change the way they decide doing business as usual additional information, and different
perspectives can lead to better decisions and development initiatives are likely to occur
extensively for the benefit of everyone in the community. For example, infrastructure
improvements can be designed to attract tourists and apply to residents. Training
programs and employment decisions can also be provided to benefit members of the
community. (Partners. 2014) [31]
According to Robinson (1999)[32] there is a potential social and cultural impact, such as
community pride, a sense of community or region, increased cultural and international
understanding, promotion of restoration or maintenance of traditional crafts. Raise
external support for ethnic minorities and preserve their culture. And management of
community and strengthen local and external appreciation and support cultural heritage.
Cultural and heritage tourism offers many benefits to tourists and the local resident as
well as the government and others as bellows:
1. Cultural heritage tourism protects historical, cultural and natural resources within
the communities, towns and cities; people have involved their community when
they can relate to family, personal, community, region or national heritage. This
connection motivates residents to protect the shared resources of the community
and to preserve their cultural heritage.
2. Cultural heritage tourism and cultural heritage will educate the public and tourists
about local and regional history and traditions. Through research and development
of cultural attractions, residents will receive better information on the local and
regional history and traditions which can be shared with tourists.
3. Cultural heritage tourism creates a closer and stronger community. Knowledge of
cultural heritage provides continuity and community context, which respects
housing, strengthens national values, builds community pride and improves
quality of life. 8
31. Partners for Livable Communities (2014), Cultural Heritage Tourism:
http://livable.org/storage/documents/reports/CBC/culturalheritagetourism.pdf; pg. 20-22.
32. Robinson, M. (1999). Cultural Conflicts in Tourism: Inevitability and Inequality. Tourism and
Cultural Conflicts. CAB International. p. 1-32.

19. 19
4. Fourth, cultural heritage tourism promotes economic vitality and community or
regional citizenship. Economic benefits include creating new jobs in the tourism
industry, cultural attractions, and travel-related businesses. Economic
diversification in the service industry. (Restaurants, hotels or motels, beds and
breakfasts, guided tours), manufacturing (arts, handicrafts, souvenirs,
publications) and agriculture (speciality gardens or farmers markets). Higher
property values Increased retail sales and significant tax revenue. (Virginia
Department of Historic Resources. 1998)[33].
The socio-cultural impact of cultural heritage tourism is carefully considered because the
impact can be an asset or a negative effect on the community. Tourism development may
be conducive to the development of quality of life (Kreag, 2001)[34] and visitor experience
is a change in values and traditions that promote cultural exchanges, increase community
understanding. Various cultural preservation of the population in the area, increasing the
historical and cultural needs, exhibits, Entertainment, entertainment, historical and
cultural exhibits, and more acceptable cultural exchanges of social differences, a
satisfaction of psychological needs.
The diversity of values that characterise the benefits of cultural heritage, cultural
value, aesthetic values, cultural values, political values, educational values are
matched by a wide range of stakeholders involved in the heritage conservation
process. Valuation involves the valuation of goods that most people associate with
a product, while the emphasis is on product evaluation by discussing questions by
art historians, public media discussions. The value of cultural heritage can be
treated the same as natural heritage. That is, its value can be evaluated regarding
value used and not used. The values used in cultural heritage are the estimated
value of the culture including the daily life of each member of society and the way
of life of the group. Unused values can be separated into value options that result
from the use of culture heritage values, preservation and gifted.9
33. Virginia Department of Historic Resources. (1998). Tourism Handbook: Putting Virginia’s to
Work. Richmond.
34. Kreag, G. (2001). The Impacts of Tourism. Available at
http://www.seagrant.umn.edu/tourism/pdfs/ImpactsTourism.pdf. Retrieved on 22 January 2015

20. 20
Most of today's Thai cultural heritage preservation focuses on preserving cultural heritage
and environment, this kind of conservation is costly, and the community cannot support
it alone. One of the ways of raising funds for conservation is to transform the historical
and cultural heritage of the community into a tourist destination, as well as tourist
accommodation such as hotels, restaurants and tourist information centres. Nevertheless,
adaptation has succeeded and generated more revenue for the community, attracting
visitors, and adding other beneficial economic effects. For example, some investors may
offer land and property purchases, and local communities may be satisfied with the offer.
It is a catalyst for the locals to move away. This will cause the identity and charm of local
life and culture to disappear. Over time, the community loses almost everything,
especially the community in which it is located (Supoj and Panayu 2016)[35]. Tourism
help promotes community unity, and recognises the value and treasure of community
assets, as well as co-develops and preserves tourist resources in the community, promotes
sustainability and motivates people in the community and participate in all activities and
also cultural heritage tourism helps to create a better understanding between tourists and
locals, as tourism will provide opportunities for tourists and community members to
exchange and learn from each other (Ministry of Tourism and Sports, 2011)[36].
2.2 Negative Socio-Cultural Impacts
The negative impact is one of the opposite aspects of social culture and the impact of
tourism or other tourism forms that occur when tourists influence the behaviour of local
communities. Culture heritage loses its purpose when it becomes a commodity for
financial transactions, and usually, rituals and ceremonies are utilised to make the colours
more dramatic and beautiful to attract tourists. Crime is another aspect of the negative
cultural and social impact of tourism. Although the links between crime and travel are
suggested, it is difficult to pinpoint that the crime is just increasing, because of the
increasing tourist or population density, or urbanisation. (Cooper, 2008)[37]. 10
35. Supoj Prompayuka, Panayu Chairattananonb. (2016), Preservation of Cultural Heritage
Community: Cases of Thailand and developed countries; AMER International Conference on
Quality of Life, AicQoL2016Medan 25 – 27 February 2016, Medan, Indonesia, pg. 240-241
36. Ministry of Tourism and Sports. (2011). National Tourism Development Plan 2012-2015;
http://www.tica.or.th/images/plan_tourism2555-2559/2555-2559.pdf
37. Cooper, C., Fletcher, J., Fyall, A., Gilbert, D., & Wanhill, S. (2008). Tourism: Principles and
practice. Harlow: Financial Times Prentice Hall.

21. 21
Cohen (2004)[38] also argues that commodities can lead to the exploitation of local people
and their cultural resources by outsiders as the process is trafficked by merchants, cultures
and entrepreneurs outside the local community. Tourism and other forms of tourism can
lead to be dark societies and cultures, negatively impact on activity and it's likely to
increase in the relaxed atmosphere of the tourist areas, and increased alcohol consumption
can become a problem, especially in the beaches, alcohol festivals and villages (Pizam
1996)[39]. Changing local lifestyles, such as changing local travel patterns, avoiding
tourist congestion and avoiding urban shopping may damage the community and culture.
Hotels, restaurants and shops can drive the development of tourism to residential areas,
resulting in a change in the physical structure of the community (Dogan, 1989)[40].
Developing tourism facilities at key locations may make local people feel excluded from
those resources and reduce the loss of local identity and local cultures such as daily habits,
social life, beliefs and value as well as increasing travel facilities may alter the customs,
such as dating habits, especially traditional or structured cultures. The ability to meet and
marry non-resident can create stress in the family (Tosun, 2002)[41]. Tourism Authority
of Thailand (2001)[42] further explained that tourism had caused problems in changing the
traditional culture of the local community as it has introduced the lifestyle, customs and
traditions of Thai society to attract more tourists.
2.3. Positive Environmental Impacts
Tourism can lead to the conservation and preservation of sensitive areas and residences
directly through revenue from similar access fees and resources. Some governments
collect money more extensively and unfavourably, which is not linked to specific parks
or conservation area, for example, fees, income tax, sales or rental of recreational-
38. Cohen, E. (2004). Contemporary Tourism: Diversity and Change. Oxford: Elsevier
39. Haralambopoulos, N. & Pizam A.(1996). Perceived impacts of tourism: the case ofSamos. Annals
of Tourism Research, 23, 503–526.
40. Dogan, H. S. (1989). Socio-cultural Impacts of Tourism. Annals of Tourism Research, 16, 216-
236.
41. Tosun,C. (2002). Host perceptions ofimpacts: A Comparative Tourism Study.Annals of Tourism
Research, 29 (1), 231–253.
42. Tourism Authority of Thailand (2001) Tourism Planning 2003: Planning Division Department.

22. 22
equipment or license fees for some activities such as hunting and fishing, it be can provide
the funding needed to manage the government's natural resources. The funds can be used
for projects and general conservation activities such as park staff salaries and park
maintenance (Aslam, 2005)[43]. Tourism development helps to preserve the natural
environment, select or prevent ecological degradation, preserve historic buildings and
monuments, improve visuals and aesthetics, and clean industrial areas, such as the
absence of high smokestacks (Andereck, 1995)[44]. According to Sunlu, (2003)[45], How
can the tourism industry lead to environmental conservation?
1. Improved environmental management and Pre-planning for tourism development
can prevent serious and costly damage, avoiding the deterioration of critical
environmental assets for tourism.
2. The tourism industry can increase environmental awareness. Tourism has
significant potential to increase public awareness of the environment and to raise
awareness of environmental issues when dealing with nature and the environment.
3. Legal measures to compensate for the negative impact. For example, controlling
the number of tourist activities and movement of visitors within the protected area
can limit the impact on the ecosystem and help maintain the integrity and vitality
of the area. Such limits can also reduce the negative impact.
2.4. Negative Environmental Impacts
Tourism development has a negative impact on the environment due to air, noise, landfill
and waste from terrain and land for agriculture, tourism, loss of open space, destruction
of plants and animals, as well as collection of animal, rock and coral species or artifacts11
43. Buultjens, J., Ratnayake, I., Gnanapala, A., and Aslam, M. (2005). Tourism and its Implications
for Management in Ruhuna National Park (Yala), Sri Lanka. Tourism Management, 26 (5), 733-
742.
44. Andereck, K. L. (1995). Environmental Consequences ofTourism: A Review of Recent Research.
InMcCool, S. F. and Watson, A. E (eds) Linking Tourism, The Environment and Sustainability,
General Technical Report No. INT-GTR-323, Intermountain Research Station, Ogton, Utah, 77-
81.
45. Sunlu, U. (2003). Environmental impacts of tourism. In Local resources and global trades:
Environments and agriculture in the Mediterranean region (eds. D. Camarda and L. Gras -sini) pp.
263-270. http://om.ciheam.org/om/pdf/a57/04001977.pdf. Retrieved on 3 March 2015.

23. 23
by or for tourists, the deterioration of the landscape, historical sites and monuments, plant,
water, exotic species introduced to halt the cycle of breeding animals and their behaviour.
The influx of tourists causes traffic and noise, which causes congestion and congestion
(Gilbert & Clark, 1997)[46].
Lickorish. (1997)[47]. He also added negative effects on the environment of tourism,
namely air pollution due to excessive use of vehicles in the attraction sites. The problem
of the use of agricultural land, habitat or recreation, or perhaps under strict conservation
control, damage to archaeological sites and antiquities because of overuse or exploitation
of archaeological sites. And dangerous fragments that are dangerous to the environment
can lead to disaster, the vibration, wear and destruction too.
The rapid growth of tourism in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, Thailand
“Ayutthaya historical park: UNESCO” led to economic growth and infrastructure
development in the city, but some problems have arisen. The staff of the Ayutthaya Fine
Arts Department (Charassri, 2004)[48] said that the road infrastructure in nearby areas
show significant problems with pollution and damage due to smoke, exhaust and
vibration from the affected traffic has impacted on the fragile monuments in recent years,
and the design of the new buildings is not consistent with most Ayutthaya monuments.
2.5. Positive Economic Impacts
Tourism has a variety of economic impacts. Tourists are involved in sales, profits, jobs,
taxes and income in the area. The most direct impact occurs within the main tourism
sector, accommodation, restaurants, transportation and retail. Tourism affects most
sectors of the economy. The analysis of the economic impact of tourism activities will-12
46. Gilbert, D. & Clark, M. (1997). An explanatory examination of urban tourism impact, with
reference to residents attitudes in the cities of Canterbury and Guildford Cities, 14 (6), 343– 352.
47. Leonard J. Lickorish (1997). An Introduction to Tourism.
48. Charassri, Naraphong (2004). The Role of Performing Arts in the Interpretation of Heritage Sites
with Particular Reference to Ayutthaya World Heritage Site. a Dissertation of Doctor of
Philosophy (Architectural Heritage Management and Tourism). Silpakorn University.

24. 24
typically focus on changing revenue, and employment in the region resulting from
tourism activities. A standard economic impact analysis will indicate the flow of money
from tourism expenditures, primarily to businesses and government agencies, where
tourists spend their money and to other businesses that supply goods and services to
tourism businesses and also the households with income from work in the tourism
industry or supporting industries; Government passes taxes and fees for business
travellers and households. Officially, regional economists distinguish direct and indirect
economic effects. Indirect effects and occurrences are sometimes called secondary
impact. The overall economic impact of tourism is the sum of indirect, indirect, and
incidental effects within the region. Any of these effects may be measured as total or
sales, income, employment, or value added (Daniel)[49].
The overall contribution of tourism includes a broader impact "indirect and consequential
effects" on the 'indirect' economy, including GDP and jobs supported by, table 1:
- Tourism investment is an important part of current and future activities, including
investment activities such as the purchase of new aircraft and the construction of
new hotels.
- The overall government spending, which will help tourism activities in various
ways, as well as made on behalf of "overall community" such as marketing,
tourism and promotion, aviation, administration, security services, security
services in resort areas, sanitation in resorts services and more.
- Purchases of goods and services in the country by businesses directly related to
tourists, such as the purchase of food and hotel cleaning services, fuel and catering
services by airlines and IT services by travel agents (World Travel & Tourism
Council, 2017)[50].13
49. Daniel J. Stynes,(1999); Economic Impacts of Tourism;
https://msu.edu/course/prr/840/econimpact/pdf/ecimpvol1.pdf
50. The economic impact of travel & tourism, (2017); travel & tourism economic impact 2017
thailand: https://www.wttc.org/-/media/files/reports/economic-impact-research/countries-
2017/thailand2017.pdf

25. 25
2.6 Negative Economic impacts.
The negative impact on tourism development is the increase in prices of goods and
services, the increase in land and housing prices, the increase in the cost of living, the
increase in labour productivity, the importation of additional costs for public utilities.
(Water, sewer, energy, medical, etc.), increasing road maintenance costs and transport
costs, creating seasonal tourism problems or high-risk unemployment issues, intense
competition for land that is being spent and other (higher value) businesses may export
earnings by non-local owners, table 1 (Kreag, 2001)[51].
Table 1. Positive and Negative of tourism on economic impacts.
Source: Kreag (2001)
Tourism also has a negative impact on real estate as well, such as the increase in real
estate prices, real estate, goods and services, and much more (Marzuki, 2009)[52]. In a
broader context, the progress of tourism development will generate income and
expenditures on the domestic economy due to the increasing demand of tourists. Tourism
will contribute to the increase of prices and fees for products and services that are not
tourist attractions.14
51. Kreag, G. (2001). The Impacts of Tourism. Available at
http://www.seagrant.umn.edu/tourism/pdfs/ImpactsTourism.pdf. Retrieved on 22 January 2015
52. Marzuki, A. (2009). Impacts of tourism development. Anatolia: An International Journal of
Tourism and Hospitality Research, 20(2), 450-455.

26. 26
3. Cultural heritage tourism management.
Tourism is an important management issue in both the natural and cultural world heritage.
It is a well-known cost industry, and also can help protect. We recognise this potential
and strongly believe that by engaging and by taking appropriate action at various levels
of the sustainable tourism process, tourism can be managed to generate net benefits. Each
protected area must have a clear plan for tourism management and other development
plans. The plan must show the desired future status and the most effective and acceptable
way to achieve that goal. This includes specific objectives identified based on the basis
of each area, such as: Describe the purpose of tourism development and identify the
implementation of budget management, financing and zoning, all of which are essential
to achieving the objectives (Armand, 2011)[53].
According to Jin Win Chong's (2012)[54] analysis of the complexities that lie behind the
conflict is the cause of exploitation of cultural heritage on overlapping borders. For
example, the dispute over the Thai-Cambodian border over the Phra Viharn Castle. Jin’s
points out how to deal with failure in overlapping areas, leading to huge losses of cultural
heritage assets in the overlapping areas. It also suggests a broader review of these
conflicts as a result of historical ties and as a result of the integration of Southeast Asian
nations and which has been used for cultural heritage to create a nation and have different
paths of experience to a different nationality. Moreover, Jin Win Chong also points out
the link between the issue of cultural heritage in terms of intellectual property and the
issue of copyright that accelerates the conflict. This article argues that the intellectual
property law may not be sufficient to deal with conflicts over regional cultural heritage
and that legal instruments can't resolve disputes. It emphasises the intricacies of cultural
heritage.15
53. Armand FAGANEL, Anita TRNAVČEVIČ, (2011). Sustainable natural and cultural heritage
tourism in protected areas: case strudy, 500-600.
54. Jin Win Chong (2012). “Mine, Yours or Ours?”: The Indonesia-Malaysia Disputes over Shared
Cultural Heritage) SOJOURN: Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia, Vol.27, No.1, p. 1-53.

27. 27
In Thailand, the basic concept of cultural heritage management differs from Western
concepts. The Thais' minds are more focused on temples and places of worship than
monuments and ruins, such as the idea of Europe, because Buddhism places importance
on the life and beliefs of Thai people. So all the artefacts, crafts, sculptures and
architecture were invented by religious inspiration. Usually, when these sacred things are
damaged, they will be fixed, preserved or restored to their native way in order to merit
and follow the path of the Buddha. Unfortunately, there are not enough written principles
or systematic management to demonstrate such techniques and activities. Oral narrative
and practice are the way they have been successful for generations. However, the earliest
evidence of cultural heritage management can be found in stone carvings in the form of
the renaissance of the Buddha.
Therefore, the role of the Fine Arts Department is to emphasise the preservation of
archaeological heritage in order to protect, preserve and restore the arts, culture, traditions
and rituals as well as the national identity as the basis for development for success. To
promote the system and dynamics of cultural management to manage knowledge and to
improve the cultural heritage as a source of learning and tourism, and to provide specific
knowledge to sustain success through sustainable development keeping value and value
appropriate science and technology the work of this department may have been inspired
by international charters, such as the Charter of Venice, the first charter inspired by the
Heritage Conservation Act, and the Charter of Florence. It also broadens the perspective
and implementation of the project with the use of the Washington Charter, the importance
of historical and urban cities, the Charter of Lausanne, the management of archaeological
protection, and the Charter of Mexico, a landmark issue culture of the country afterwards.
(Fine Art Department, 2016)[55].
It can be concluded that historical and cultural resources related to individuals, events or
aspects of the community in the past make the community unique and tell the story. These
resources are the most visible reflection of the heritage of the community. Recognition16
55. Fine Art Department. (2016). Task and Responsibility. Retrieved on June 9, 2016, from www.
nearts.go.th/th/history.php? PHPSESSID= 477f6c1fabe8ba84 30f2f552e30d2856. Pg. 20.

28. 28
of historical sources of space can bring about a revitalisation of neighbourhoods,
increased tourism, and sustained economic development through private investment and
civic engagement (Burns, 2010)[56]
Heritage tourism is a research area that starts with the supply side, which is usually a
place to visit, usually a specialist in creating or having a cultural heritage. This cultural
heritage site is associated with distant past castles, historic churches, historical events, as
well as other kinds of significant cultural heritage worth protecting, preserving and
presenting. In the development of sustainability, the concept of sustainable management
has been developed. This concept is generally understood to cover three dimensions:
environmental, social and economic sustainability (Adams, 2006)[57], responding to
today's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to respond
(Brundtland Commission, 1987)[58]. The importance of each of these elements may
change over time and in different situations. But in the long term, these must be included
in sustainability.
Heritage tourism can support a pattern of regional and urban development that balances
the concern for heritage preservation and economic development initiatives. For this it
can be observed in Singapore that the wholesale demolition of the city's perfect quarter-
century in 1970 in the name of modernity robbed the city of the inherited heritage of
colonial and ethnic architecture. Trying to correct this by creating some of these areas in
the form of artificial history (Wantanee, Richard & David, 2010)[59]. The Karst landscape
of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam and Phang Nga Bay, Thailand are interesting case studies of
the tensions and challenges planners face in trying to protect their natural heritage from
destruction. Clear comparison studies on both sites indicate that there are similar
pressures that are related. With the general dynamics of change that took place under the17
56. Burns, Leigh, Eaddy, Marry Ann, Moore, Carole, Speno, Lynn & Talley-McRae, Helen. (2010).
Heritage Tourism Handbook: A How to Guide for Georgia. Tourism Division. Department of
Natural Resources.
57. Adams, W. M. (2006). The Future of Sustainability: re-thinking Environment and Development
in the Twenty‐ first Century. Gland: IUCN.
58. Brundtland Commission. (1987). Our Common Future, Report of the World Commission on
Environment and Development, 1987.
59. Wantanee Suntikul, Richard Butler and David Airey. (2010), Heritage tourism in Southeast Asia:
Vietnam’s Heritage Attractions in Transition, pg. 219-220.

29. 29
development of modern liberal capitalism, and despite the differences in political context
and planning, and the level of convergence in response to policy in the form of holistic
and coastal management. The place and value of both and hence the motivation to protect
them for the sake of present and future generations are in their magnificent physical
structure. Tourism activities occurring in these two bays are very rare, which may have
an effect on their basic physical characteristics (Micheal, 2010)[60].
Cultural Heritage tourism is a guideline for creating effective tourism development
strategies for community conservation, shop-based tourism, physical exploration,
community attitudes, and valuation of tourism related maintenance. Souvenir shops in the
community promote tourism that benefits the local community and preserves the
environment, especially on cultural values, places and sustainable cultural attractions.
(Suephakdee, 2015)[61] Market failures when dealing with heritage preservation, that is,
markets alone cannot afford to invest in cultural heritage, and this phenomenon derives
from good cultural heritage. In the absence of a viable market, other issues need to be
addressed for investment and other investments, which are usually down to the
government (Somchai, 2006)[62]. The results found interesting relevance for practitioners
and researchers. First, service providers and policy decision makers provide insights into
visitor expectations and emotions. Second, policy decision-makers need to develop
activities that meet the needs of the traveller. Finally, policymakers must allocate
resources and promote new policies about cultural tourism through festivals (Kanchan &
Wannee, 2018)[63].
60. Michael J. G. Parnwell, (2010); Heritage tourism in soutHeast asia,Tourism and Natural Heritage
Management in Vietnam and Thailand, pg. 260-261
61. D. Suephakdee (2015) Guidelines for the conservation of cultural heritage buildings for tourism
development along Sue Suk Road, Prachuabkirikhan, Thailand, WIT Transactions on The Built
Environment, Vol 148, pg. 185. www.witpress.com, ISSN 1743-3509 (on-line)
62. Dr Somchai Ratanakomut PhD. (15 May 2006): Thai APEC Study Center, Thammasat University;
Community Awareness and Cultural Tourism Sustainability: APEC Study Center Consortium
Conference Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam 23-24 May 2006. 2006/ASCC/017, pg. 3-5
63. Kanchana Sukanthasirikul, Wannee Trongpanich. (2016). Cultural tourism experience on
customer sastifaction: Evidence from Thailand. Journal of Economic and Social Development,
Vol. 3, No. 1, pg. 22-23.

30. 30
Local communities need effective management planning for both positive and negative
impacts of visitors. There are authorities responsible for creating a context for the
appreciation of historic places. Communities and community leaders must, in particular,
understand the limitations of their communities and work together to develop positive
attitudes toward change. Both positive and negative aspects must be addressed through
the public awareness process and participation of community members. Community
members are responsible for setting regulations that reflect their values and lifestyles to
create a context for sustainable practices (Thiracahya, 2008)[64].
The expansion and increased tourism, causing stress and threats to the place and people
without experience or experience in the past. Poorly managed tours or excessive visitor
traffic on the site can be a significant threat to the importance of the site's heritage and
the quality of visitor experience. Tourism development and visitor activity should be
involved in understanding and appreciate the value of visitor legacy by interpreting
visitors' offerings and services. Sustainable tourism is a developmental approach based
on the development and delivery of quality visitor experience, which does not undermine
or undermine the natural and cultural values of any place. Equally, it must increase the
quality of life within the local community (Brooks, 2011)[65].
Federico (2011)[66] points to legal theories as a framework for drafting conventions, even
on the basis of correct philosophical reasoning. The fact that the Convention is based on
a legal framework, which is considered to be material, makes the Convention less flexible
for the promotion and preservation of cultural heritage, which often changes and rebuilds.
The next important point is that the focus on the state as the centre of the action is
therefore linked to the issue of human rights in a culture of incompatibility between the
state and the individual or the individual and inherited culture. 18
64. Assist.Prof.Dr.Thirachaya Maneenetr(2008), Khmer Temples of Northeast Thailand: A Proposed
Plan for Tourism Development, pg. 9-10
65. Graham Brooks, (2011); Heritage as a driver for development, its contribution to sustainable
tourism in contemporary society: ICOMOS International Cultural Tourism Committee, Australia
66. Federico Lenzerini, (2011). Intangible Cultural Heritage: The Living Culture of Peoples in
European Journal International Law, Vol. 22, No. 1, p. 101-120.

31. 31
The preservation of cultural heritage must be applied in line with the human rights law,
which is a significant starting point for ensuring that individuals and groups are both
creators and those who inherit the cultural heritage will be able to exercise their own
rights. It also illustrates important contradictions despite references to and respect for
human rights. However, it may fall under the concept of Western human rights, which is
difficult to avoid leading to over-regulation and the establishment of standardisation
instead of diversity in culture.
Tourism in Thailand needs to increase the competitiveness of its offerings alongside the
tourism cycle, taking into account the major trends in global tourism directions. To be
effective in driving the growth of Thailand's tourism industry, everyone must have the
same image that Thailand needs. Thailand's tourism vision in 2036 shows that Thailand
is a destination for tourism. Vision is a goal that inspires and is open to all stakeholders
in order to be in line with the development direction that will make Thailand the best
tourism destination in the year 2036. It is a world-class quality destination through
balanced development and the use of Thai as a means to help develop the economy and
sustainable society distribution of wealth as example in the table 2 (The Ministry of
Tourism and Sports Thailand, 2017)[67].
Table 2: The 5 essences of Thailand tourism vision towards 2036
Source: The Second Thailand National Tourism Development Plan (2017 - 2021)19
67. The Ministry of Tuourism and Sports Thailand. (2017); The Second National Tourism
Development Plan (2017 - 2021), pg. 4-14

32. 32
Research design and method
Quantitative methods were performed by Burns and Grove (2001: 63)[68], a formal
quantitative research agenda, systematic process objectives to describe and test
relationships, and investigations of causes and effects between variables. This survey was
used to collect original data to describe a population that is too large to be observed
directly (Mouton 1996: 232)[69].The survey was based on the self-reported questionnaire,
which was a series of questionnaires from researchers (Polit & Hungler, 1995: 148)[70].
In this study, data were collected using self-generated questionnaire. Quantitative surveys
were chosen because they depict individuals with specific characteristics or
characteristics such as behaviour, opinions, abilities, beliefs, and knowledge. The
researcher sent a questionnaire to the research consultant for a review. After that, the
researcher tested the questionnaire by sending the test sample to test how difficult the
questionnaire was and when the response was satisfactory. The researcher took the
questionnaire to the next step.
1. Areas of the survey: The data collection was achieved through quantitative
methods; the research was carried out during January 2018 through February 2018
in four parts of Thailand: Bangkok (Central), Ubon-Ratchathani (Northeast),
Chonburi (East) and Chaingmai (North). Questions were asked about the potential
of cultural heritage tourism, the area of management, activities and organization
see in picture 1.
2. Respondents: Then there were questions to local communities or people living
in Thailand such as university teachers and students, tour company staffs, local
government officers, host and community members table 4. At 18 years old and
upward a total of 129 respondents were randomly sampled see in table 3. 20
68. Burns, N. & Grove, S.K., 2001, The practice of nursing research: conduct,critique and utilization.
W.B. Saunders, Philadelphia.
69. Mouton, J., 1996, Understanding social research, Van Schaik, Pretoria.
70. Polit, D.F. & Hungler, B.P., 1995, Nursing research: principles and methods, J.B. Lippincott,
Philadelphia

33. 33
Picture 1: Map of the data collection.
Source:
http://topicstock.pantip.com/blueplanet/topicstock/2010/11/E9879809/E9879809.html
Table 3: Demographics of Distribution of respondents (genders and ages).
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.

34. 34
Table 4: Demographics of Distribution of respondents (education and occupation
levers).
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.
3. Research tools.
The questionnaire design was informed by the information gathered during the literature
review to ensure that the questions represent what the local community should know
about the value and management of cultural heritage tourism. All questionnaires were
distributed to the respondents by the researcher face-to-face. The questions were quite
simple and translated into Thai, and during the survey, the researcher provided clear
instructions for the respondents. The instrument used in this study was a questionnaire on
the value of cultural heritage tourism in Thailand. The researcher divided the research
tools into three parts.
Part 1: The status of the respondents are the genders, ages, education and occupations.
Part 2: The impact of heritage tourism in four cities in Thailand is questioned about the
value of cultural heritage tourism in Thailand, according to the opinion of the Thai people
in three aspects: economic, social and environmental. Respondents were asked to fill out
a questionnaire with “1” for the most important impact, “5” to get the least impact, or
choose the three most effective responses in the respondents' questionnaire.
Part 3: Comments and other suggestions question, where the questions ask the

35. 35
respondents about their cultural heritage assets, or other related events in their hometown.
For example, the respondents will explain the culture and heritage of their area that they
want to introduce or visit.
4. Data collection.
For the data collection and analysis, the researcher distributed a total of 129
questionnaires in four Thai regions and calculated as a percentage. After the questionnaire
was returned, the survey was completely verified. The researcher analysed the data by
using the SurveyMonkey (picture 2-3) program to study the opinions of people in the
community on the economic, social and environmental impact, also to examine
relationships between genders, ages, education and occupation levels, how do local Thai
people feel about the impact of cultural heritage tourism and the statistics are used;
frequency, percentage and mean.
Picture 2: Questionnaire designed (input data).
Picture 3: Questionnaire analysed (output data).
Source: https://www.surveymonkey.com
Answered: 129

36. 36
Results and discussion
1. The social value of Cultural Heritage tourism
The results showed that all the samples had positive opinions. The social value of cultural
heritage tourism has indirect effects such as the spread of culture from one society to
another, which may be caused by people in the community itself or through the media as
well the visitors. As a consequence, in Figure 1, 129 of the survey respondents saw
cultural heritage as a means of restoring cultural traditions, (2.50%). Cultural Heritage
tourism also promotes social harmony in collaborating on the development and
conservation of tourism resources in the community, as well as cooperation with other
stakeholders, such as investors, business owners or organisations both public and private.
It also provides opportunities for students or researchers to engage in research on cultural
heritage, and other related resources, and will have implications for how to conserve or
promote them, (2.48%). In addition, the study also found that heritage tourism was a good
link between tourists and locals and that mutual understanding, such as tourism, provided
opportunities for visitors and community members to socialise exchange each other
viewpoints, (2.47%). The emergence of community-based tourism has also helped to
reduce the migration of local people to urban work. Because when tourism occurs in the
community, it creates jobs or employment, as well as new occupations such as local tour
operators, restaurant, souvenir shop and more, (2.43%).
As highlighted in figure 1, the researcher also adds that there are other strong values
derived from heritage tourism, such as:
- Cultural Heritage tourism contributes to how the community use their resources,
such as culture, archaeological sites, and traditions, as a source of tourism and
community income generating revenue.
- Cultural Heritage tourism also contributes to the community in terms of creating
love and pride in cultural heritage resources. Due to the culture and traditions and
other activities of the community, it is an important attraction for tourist activities.
1.1 Conclusion of social value of Cultural Heritage tourism
The Cultural Heritage tourism and other field of tourism industry often involves contact
between culture, behaviour, values and traditions. Cultural heritage tourism is a

37. 37
framework where local people and tourists can learn better from direct contact. Also,
tourism requires the host community to respond and improve education to provide quality
services to tourists. In addition, interactions between local people and tourists also create
new ideas, values and motives for social and economic progress. Also, the social impact
of Cultural Heritage Tourism is difficult to measure and to a large degree is indirect or
even unknown. The vast majority of studies conducted so far in this area mainly involve
understanding the social impact in the host society rather than impacting the tourists
themselves. In general, the attitudes and perceptions of local communities vary between
levels of negative impact and no positive effects. However, the values that had least
responses (but still less than the positive ones) were the way to help build social capital
and builds opportunities for healthy and useful community relationships and partnerships,
and all responses result in the positive for the community, as indicated in figure 1.
Figure 1: The social value of Cultural Heritage tourism in Thailand.
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.
2. The environmental value of Cultural Heritage tourism
The tourism industry in Thailand has the potential to increase public awareness of the
environment and to raise awareness of environmental issues when dealing with nature
and the environment. This confrontation may increase awareness of the value of life and
lead to environmentally conscious behaviours and activities, and when we talk about
relationship between all of the tourism forms and the environment, the environment is an
inseparable part of the tourism industry that is an important component of attracting

38. 38
visitors. To make an economic benefit to society, to generate income, to create jobs.
However, the growth of the tourism has had an impact on the environment, especially the
environment of the tourist community. The tourism environment is divided into two
types: natural and human-made environments. It will be affected both directly and
indirectly inevitably.
The perceptions of tourism on the environment were a mixture of both positive and
negative responses. Most of the respondents perceived more positively than negatively,
that the respondents thought the tourism activities contributed to the environmental
improvement, for example, the income from tourism could be helps in raising funds for
the conservation of natural resources through the entrance and guide fees, (2.57%), and
to creates alternative sources of income, thereby reducing problems such as poaching and
deforestation in developing territories, (2.54%), these two are most important values were
received from the respondents. And following on, to conservation of natural habitats,
(2.52%), and the least important feedback is (2.40%) to boost awareness of the tourist
site, attraction or area’s significance, see in figure 2.
Tourism enhances the value of the environment in local communities, enabling local
communities and visitor to appreciate the value of the environment and the use of tourist
attractions or community resources (Tourism Authority of Thailand, 2016)[71], as well as
tourism, also helps the people in the community to develop and improve the environment,
such as cleanliness, but the impact of environmental tourism in terms of conflicts with
the community is still there.
2.1 Conclusion of the environmental value of Cultural Heritage tourism.
This study provides interesting evidence about the importance of continuing efforts to
understand the nature of rural tourism destinations from local community perceptions. It
is worth checking the tourism impact that may be on local communities given the fact-21
71. TourismAuthority of Thailand’s 2017,(2016);Action Plan,
http://www.travelthaiculture.com/tourism-authority-of-thailands-2017-action-plan/

39. 39
that identifying and sustainably developing rural tourism is still important in the tourism
industry. This research demonstrates the existence of a positive and significant
relationship between two factors, namely, the preservation of cultural heritage and the
influence of resources on community attitudes towards tourism development. It is
therefore important to understand the concerns of local communities to ensure better
sustainability, particularly in rural tourism in each part of Thailand.
Figure 2: Chart of the environmental value of Cultural Heritage tourism.
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.
The quality of the environmental, both natural and human-made, is essential to tourism.
However, the relationship between tourism and the environment is complex. It involves
many activities that may affect the environment. Many of these impacts are linked to the
construction of common infrastructures such as roads and airports and tourist facilities,
including resorts, hotels, restaurants, shops, golf courses and marinas. The negative
impact of tourism can gradually destroy the dependent environmental resources.
3. The economic value of Cultural Heritage tourism
From the past developmental policy to the present, it is clear that the Thai government
has used the tourism industry as an important tool to increase the country's economic

40. 40
income. Because tourism can make a huge income for the country (The Tourism
Authority of Thailand: TAT, 2018)[72].The results show that local communities are aware
of the benefits of tourism in the economy. During surveys with local communities, one
thing almost everyone says, tourism brings benefits in terms of income and job
opportunities. Respondents linked tourism to income. The results show that local people
in each region of Thailand perceive tourism as an opportunity to earn more and believe
that if the economy of the community grows due to the expansion of tourism, locals will
gain benefits as well.
As shown in figure 3, Thais see that the top three economic values of cultural heritage
tourism are; first, it's helping to establish good economic relations between and within
the community, (2.65%) such as create jobs for the community, local entrepreneurs,
creating products, community products, and developing marketing with other
organizations. Second, when people in the community earn more, local people can spend
more money. It promotes economic revitalisation within the community and also
stimulates the promotion, protection, watching and preservation of important places or
other arts and culture within the community, (2.63%), in the form of supportive funds for
repairs or in the form of promoting cultural and heritage activities related to the utilisation
of tourism resources in the community. And third, with the expansion of the tourism
industry in the community, people in the community have become more involved in
presenting their identities through local activities that have been neglected for decades.
For example, folk games, folk arts, food, or even religious activities, (2.59%). However,
the other economic values of cultural heritage tourism, as shown in Figure 3, Thai people
still have high perception, which is not much different.
3.1 Conclusion of the economic value of Cultural Heritage tourism
According to the information collected in each region of Thailand, the benefits of cultural
heritage tourism on the economy are apparently a significant motivator for people to
support tourism. The results of the survey indicated that tourism economic impact is
directly related to local residents' own interests, and it is easier to quantify and measure22
72. The Tourism Authority of Thailand: TAT, (2018); TAT’s marketing plan 2018 to heighten
Thailand as a preferred destination: https://www.tatnews.org/tats-marketing-plan-2018-to-
heighten-thailand-as-a-preferred-destination/

41. 41
such perceptions. On the other hand, desire for economic profits has been the target for
tourism development, and economy-based policies made by local governments and media
publicity have, furthermore, reinforced residents' positive perception of tourism
economic impact. At present, the tourism industry has become an important pillar of the
economy of local communities, and the survey shows that people are strongly aware of
this (figure 3).
Figure 3: Chart of the economic value of Cultural Heritage tourism
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.
The implications for heritage conservation and management are clear: local people’s
economic welfare is a crucial part of their understanding of the cultural heritage tourism
relationship, and so conservation strategies and heritage management plans need to factor
in this reality. The economics of cultural heritage tourism cannot be ignored. For instance,
the result in the chart above shows that the local communities in Thailand give an
essential perception that cultural heritage tourism influence within their communities to
builds vital relationships and promotes the active preservation and protection of important
local resources.

42. 42
4. The general management methods and issues of cultural heritage tourism in
Thailand
About the management of cultural heritage is a way to manage Thailand's cultural
heritage tourism, which is responsible for the cultural heritage of Thailand, built on
beliefs and religious beliefs and the diversity of ethnic groups that coexist peacefully and
harmoniously. These principles are the principles of management, which must be taken
from past and present studies in all dimensions. Focus on participatory processes, giving
priority to stakeholders in areas with associated cultural heritage locations, while
addressing human rights. Regular meetings and discussions are highly encouraged.
However, the value of intangible cultural heritage must be a matter of concern in order to
preserve and convey the cultural heritage of particular societies, while at the same time
preserving the diversity of cultural heritage. The cultural identity of the local and promote
the dissemination and exchange of knowledge about cultural heritage (figure 4).
Figure 4: Chart of the general management methods and issues of cultural heritage
tourism in Thailand. (Most important chart)
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.
This research focus based on the facts of general management methods, and issues of
cultural heritage tourism in Thailand could be considered for the sustainable management

43. 43
as the results on the figures 4 presented that the respondents gave precedence to the
expert's development knowledge base in cultural heritage must be managed as the first
most importantly considers, (38.40%) and development of cultural tourism management
and local development must be appropriately integrated into local development plans,
(37.30%), followed by government must have efficient financial measures for promotion
and support of all levels of cultural heritage management, (36.22%), thereby it can be
said Thais express concern about these three management methods or issues of cultural
heritage tourism should be most managed and every section must seriously go along.
Figure 5: Chart of the general management methods and issues of cultural heritage
tourism in Thailand (Weighted average)
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.

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4.1 Conclusion of the general management methods and issues of cultural heritage
tourism in Thailand
In the past, people understood that heritage preservation was the responsibility of the
government, which was run by the Fine Arts Department, the Religious Affairs
Department, the Office of Contemporary Arts and Culture, and the National Buddhist
Office. And people who are interested, which is not enough to cover the work needed to
conserve. There is also no incentive for owners of cultural heritage to encourage them to
preserve their possessions, thus destroying many cultural heritage sites or being
undermined by lack of understanding. Therefore, essential for the Thai cultural heritage
to have more diverse conservation and management approaches, with the participation of
all involved, especially the people living in each part of Thailand as well as respect for
equality, human rights and people in the country share local responsibility to protect,
preserve and transmit local cultural heritage in order to serve as a source of learning for
the next generations by the constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand, the decentralisation
policy and the extension of cultural heritage. As indicated on the figures 4 and 5, Thais
agreed that the general management methods and issues of cultural heritage tourism
should be working with local sectors and central sectors, for examples, the results on the
average weight shown that the government must have measures for the encouragement,
award giving, and commendation to persons or activities that involve conservation of
cultural heritage, (2.43%), education for prevention planning and resolution of issues of
cultural heritage tourism is imperative. So the expert’s knowledge development base in
cultural heritage must be managed, (2.44%), and including the control or environmental
control in terms of quantity and quality in each area. As well as legal measures to prevent
and correct the impact of tourism by enforcing the law, which means the policy on
management of cultural heritage tourism must be regarded as one of the nation’s core
policies,( 2.42%).
5. The supporting of Cultural Heritage Tourism in Thailand.
Thanks to the management and development of tourist attractions in response to changing
tourist attractions. They are not static environments and require responsible planning and
management. Dependence on local initiatives, unplanned planning, and self-regulation in
uncertain situations do not lead to future long-term security for the travel industry or the

45. 45
environment of destination areas. Growing stakeholder engagement and long-term vision
commitment are important to linking tourism. Culture and Sustainable development It
can be seen from table 5 that the majority of Thais emphasise the protection of cultural
heritage tourism resource management is the development of a tourist destination with
tourist facilities and tourist attractions that can attract tourists to travel, (42.06%), which
is a positive result and suggests that if funding is provided the Thai people are also
focusing on raising the budget to take care of the resources in the first place.
Subsequently, respondents gave priority to providing information on the maintenance and
protection of cultural heritage to all relevant or stakeholder groups, such as those in the
local community, (37.01%). Including the development of better protection, and the
recognition of new cultural heritage in the community or in the country, (34.40%).
Table 5: Demographic of the supporting of Cultural Heritage Tourism in Thailand.
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.
5.1 Conclusion of the supporting of Cultural Heritage Tourism in Thailand.
If more money was to be spent on cultural heritage tourism issues, then more emphasis
should be placed on preventive measures for the preservation of historic sites. Include
support funds for other cultural heritage surveys that are not yet completed or in the
process of being explored. Developing things in line with the expansion of the tourism
industry is a necessity, such as the addition of necessary amenities within communities
and attractions, to reduce the chances of outsiders getting benefits from the local
community (Souvenir shop, community products shop, restaurants, accommodation and
more). As indicated in the most important columns. But do not spend too much money to
build new attractions such as cemeteries, shipyards or old mines, 10.24%, as well as

46. 46
repurchase business in the surrounding areas such as restaurants and hotels, (8.73%).
However, if spending money on the study of the capacity to accommodate tourists is a
key issue that should not be overlooked, it's a way to prevent and solve problems that will
arise from tourism.
6. The negative effects of preserving and using cultural heritage assets.
Since tourism is important for Thailand's economic development, the result of tourism
may be both positive and negative. This is because tourists travel to tourist destinations
as a source of goods and services, which will surely affect those who will be affected
directly in the local community in the area. The effects may be in the form of benefits or
exploitation, such as problems of crime, drugs, prostitution, cultural and environmental
problems, or invasions of restricted areas. However, when referring to the impact of
tourism activities, it is generally considered to have immediate effects, such as the impact
on revenue generation, job creation, infrastructure development. The effect on the
negative side is not small, especially the effects on the environment and society. The
negative effects of preserving and using cultural heritage assets are generally divided into
three areas: economic impact, social impact, and environmental impact.
The results (figure 6) of the data analysis revealed that the negative effects of preserving
and using cultural heritage assets in Thailand in all four regions were as the impact of
environmental tourism in terms of conflicts with local communities, such as the problem
of community water resources (wastewater treatment standards, drinking water
shortages), the deterioration of tourist resources, (76.67%) (problems of waste, air
pollution, noise problems, 18.25%), the problem of destroying the landscape of local
communities is to increase the number of facilities such as restaurants, hotels, clubs, bars,
(59.73%). The problem of infrastructure development such as facilities and infrastructure
development in accordance with the government policy, due to the development of the
construction of enterprises, regardless of the environment, (19.84%). The increased cost
of living in the community means that, when local communities have tourism, they will
need more tourism products and services to meet the needs of tourists, tourism operators
are being exploited by raising prices of goods and services. It also a cause raises the price
of land in local communities, (39.10%). The problem of increasing the number of tourists
is the expansion of tourism in local communities, the problem of allocation of space is
not consistent with the community. As a result, there are more tourists than the capacity

47. 47
of tourism resources, (46.62%). Figure 6. Heritage managers and caretakers often have
to prioritise and make choices about how best to use the available resources to protect
collections, buildings, monuments and sites.
Figure 6: The negative effects of preserving and using cultural heritage assets.
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.
6.1 Conclusion of the negative effects of preserving and using cultural heritage
assets.
The impact of the tourism industry on the way of life and culture is easy to see, especially
in urban areas and tourist attractions, where visitors are very welcome. It can be
concluded that tourism industry can generate income into Thailand economic system a
lot per year. At the same time, cultural heritage and other tourism forms related have both
positive and negative impacts on local communities, as shown in figure 6. It is essential
to remember that risk management is a continuous process. We have to keep monitoring
the risks and adjusting our actions to ensure that negative impacts on our objectives will
be minimised. The negative impacts of tourism will have direct and indirect impacts on
the environment. The environment of tourism can be divided into two types: natural
environment, such as waterfalls, forests, seas and human-made environments, such as
archaeological sites. And subsequently the social and cultural impact of local
communities, such as crime. And finally, the economic impact of the community, due to
the negative impact on the environment, tourist resources in the community have
deteriorated and lost their beauty causing tourists to lack the incentive to travel and make

48. 48
local people lose their income from tourism (Department of Environmental Quality,
1998)[73].23
7. The most relevant actors in the sustainable preservation and use of cultural
heritage assets
The results from the survey of four regions of Thailand (Figure 7) show that most Thais
commented that the five most relevant actors in the conservation and use of cultural
heritage sites are as follows;
1. Local residents participation, (71.87%). Local people participate in planning,
management, preparation and management of facilities within the community.
And involvement in tourism development planning meetings with government
and private sectors. And everyone in the locality must look at what resources can
be developed as a tourist destination. All members of the local community have
the right to take advantage of local tourist resources and must be able to handle
the monetary and material benefits to the local people thoroughly. Everyone in
the community must be involved in maintenance without leaving the existing
resources to deterioration. According to Chinnarat Somsueb, (2006)[74]
participation in the sustainability of the development process must include five
components: Joint planning, joint action plan, shared benefit, follow-up and joint
maintenance.
2. School, college and university students, (66.96%). Associate Professor Ratanawat
Chaiyarat, (2017)[75] said Thailand has a variety of tourism resources and has
begun to cultivate conservation knowledge for the young generation to become a
major force in Thailand. Providing education about the conservation and
utilisation of tourism resources is a strong foundation for the country, this will
lead to the development of innovative ideas in the future in accordance with the
73. Department of Environmental Quality. (1998). Ecotourism. Bangkok: Department of
Environmental Promotion.
74. Chinnarat Somsueb, (2006: 20). Nonthaburi: Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University,
Nonthaburi province.
75. Associate ProfessorRatanawat Chaiyarat, (2017), Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies;
Mahidol University

49. 49
policy of Thailand 4.0. The process of education, protection and utilisation of
cultural heritage is important to be supported by educational institutions in
providing information. It will motivate young people to understand the problems
and see the importance of tourism resources in the local community. It provides
an opportunity to study, analyse, and prioritise problems that will be solved.
3. Local authorities, (55.91%). Local authorities are another important organisation
in the management of tourism resources together with local people. Which serves
as a sponsor in various areas such as information of the tourism development plan,
as well as takes responsibility as a mediator between the local people and the
government. Which Siamese Heritage Trust: SHT, (2003)[76] said, national and
local government agencies play an important role in preserving the cultural
heritage of the province. On the contrary, it is indispensable. Each community
must participate in the conservation and transfer of their heritage to the youth in
the community.
4. Cultural heritage workers, (47.24%). Every province in Thailand is rich in local
cultural heritage, especially in traditional architecture and way of life. Their
conservation is important as part of Thailand's cultural diversity and a source of
knowledge and inspiration for future generations. The role of cultural heritage
labour is another important component in the management of tourism resources
in local communities, such as plan and develop plans or projects cooperated
organisations such as local authorities, government or private organisations in
each province of Thailand.
5. Restoration professional, (41.94%). Restorative professionals play an important
role in the conservation of tourism resources at the community and national level
by providing information to motivate people in the local community to protect
their cultural heritage. Experts also have a duty to identify and record details of
cultural heritage and other tourism resources. It increases the chances of
registration, protection, or funding for restoration from the government and
ensuring that cultural heritage is important also requires expert certification, and
expert accreditation also results in international recognition. 24
76. Siamese Heritage Trust, 2003, Heritage of the Provinces: The Conservation Path;
http://www.siamese-heritage.org/pr_HeritageConservationInProvinces.html

50. 50
The conservation and sustainable use of cultural heritage resources is a development of
the economy, society and environment, focusing on the use of tourism resources wisely
and accurately according to academic principles. It will make local people more aware of
their own contribution to the conservation, prevention and utilisation of tourism resources
in the community. Participation of local people in the maintenance of tourism resources
can be achieved by everyone involved in the government, private sector or NGO. All
parties must provide opportunities for local people to take action. However, they need to
provide knowledge and information to conserve tourist resources of the community. In
particular, the private sector, which is involved in the tourism industry, should support
the activities of local communities in implementing sustainable development and the
utilisation of cultural heritage resources.
8. What is Thailand famous for historically? And why is famous?
Thailand is a land full of attractions that are popular around the world. Thailand has
ecotourism, natural attractions, cultural attractions or even nightlife for nightlife. Of
course, Thailand has been selected by magazines or travel agency websits and travellers
around the world to be the most popular destination and the best tourist destination in the
world. For example, Tripadvisor, Planetwar, Lonelyplanet, whatsonsukhumvit.com and
etc.
Picture 4: Sukhothai historical park, Sukhothai province, TH.
Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303921-d455348-
Reviews-Sukhothai_Historical_Park-Sukhothai_Sukhothai_Province.html

51. 51
Thailand has a variety of destinations spread throughout all regions of Thailand; North,
Northeast, Central, East, West and South. It has a beautiful, valuable and history, for
instance, natural attractions such as waterfalls, mountains and sea or historical attractions
such as traditions, historic sites, lifestyle and if we talk about the ancient sites that are
popular in Thailand, of course, the first tourist attractions that tourists often remember is
the temples and historical parks and so on, the results of this survey found that there are
12 of archaeological sites and cultural activities, traditional events and local lifestyle to
visit in Thailand as indicated in table 6.
Table 6: The famous cultural attractions in Thailand.
Source: Own conclusion based on the data from survey.
The Fine Arts Department of Thailand has developed and promoted historical sites in
Thailand. But some have become important as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Thailand's major attractions include Sukhothai and Ayutthaya Historical Parks. The
visitors can experience the heritage of the Kingdom of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya. While
the influence of the Khmer era in Thailand can occur in many areas across the country,
the major areas are Nakhon Ratchasima, Surin, Buriram and Sisaket, picture 5. To truly
feel Thailand and the history of Thailand, visiting the ancient sites of the Kingdom of
Thailand is absolutely essential. For instance, Khmer monument in Thailand, about ten
centuries ago, when the Khmer empire controlled many of today's Thai rulers, many
Khmer temples were built, many of them still in well-preserved conditions.