Culture of Thailand

Thailand Culture — With almost 95 per cent of Thai’s being adherents of Theravada Buddhism it should come as little surprise to anyone that the country’s culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism.This is particularly true when it comes to Thai visual art, which traditionally is rich with images of Buddhism. Everywhere you go in Thailand Buddha images from different periods and of distinctive styles can be found.Contemporary Thai art often combines traditional Thai elements with more modern techniques.Having an understanding of Thai culture will greatly enhance your visit to Thailand.Hand-in-hand with Thai culture are customs unique to Thailand that every visitor should be aware of and practice respectfully while in the kingdom.One of the most distinctive Thai customs is the wai, which is used for greeting, farewell,or acknowledgment. The wai comes in several forms reflecting the relative status of those involved and consists of a prayer-like gesture with the hands, and a bow of the head. It is considered very polite behavior to reciprocate when a wai is offered, though for children this is not expected.If you can offer some information or interesting stories to help other visitors appreciate Thai culture please submit an article to our editors.


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Makha Bhucha Day – Learn About Thai Culture During Religious Holidays

As Buddhism is the religion practiced by the large majority of Thai people, most holidays fall on national religious days including Makha Bhucha Day. Makha ...


Fighting Cocks Exposed at Chiang Mai Centre

THAILAND TRAVEL NEWS: Cock fighting might be as popular with some people as bull fighting is with others, but in Thailand, as throughout the rest ...


Phi Ta Khon Festival in Loei – Thailand Ghost Festival

As the most well-known event of Loei province in the Northeastern Thailand, Phi Ta Khon is the ultimate yearly celebration.  The Thailand Ghost Festival is ...


Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day at Sanam Luang, Bangkok

No matter how touristy Thailand has grown to be, Thailand remains a country of agriculture. Rice is still a staple food of Thailand and also ...


My Thailand… My Buddhism (Winning Essay – 1st Place)

“I, your father, am called Phra Ya Tak. I swear I will devote my heart and soul to liberate our beloved Kingdom. The freedom of ...


Thailand Songkran Festival 2009: World’s Biggest Water Fight (Part 2)

The Festival of Water – Grab your ‘gun’ and get ready to splash ‘em! Throughout the three days of the Songkran Festival (technically April 13-15, 2009) ...


Songkran Festival in Thailand – Water Festival 2009 (Part 1)

Held annually on 13-15th April, Songkran Festival is undoubtedly the most festive and celebrated event of the year in Thailand. Songkran marks the Thai ...


Royal cremation of Beloved Princess in November

This article is written by John LeFevre It's doubtful if the people of any other nation hold their royal family in such high esteem and respect ...


Phrae temple has cultural and architectural appeal

Despite being relatively modern, Wat Phra That Suthon Mongkhon Khiri Temple is truly worth a visit due to its outstanding myriad of cultural and architectural ...