Culture of Thailand

The modern culture of Thailand includes cultural beliefs and characteristics influence from ancient India, China, Cambodia and pre-historic cultures of Southeast Asia. Hinduism and Buddhism are some of the main religions that influenced the culture Thailand. The Chinese and Indian culture has also had influences on the culture and cuisine of Thailand.

Arts and architecture

Traditional visual arts in Thailand are greatly influence by Buddhism while Thai literature is heavily influenced by the Indian Hindu culture. Thai temples are seen almost everywhere. Architecture and arts of the temple are influenced by architecture and culture of neighbouring countries.

Music

Music in Thailand consist mostly folk and traditional music along with pop and string music. Dance in Thailand are divided into many forms. They are high art, known as classical dance and low art which is the folk dance. They are part of the main art form in Thailand, the Ram Thai.

Cuisine

Thai cuisine is well known around Asia due to the blending of four fundamental tastes of saltiness, sourness, spiciness and sweetness. Most of the dishes try to combine all four kinds of tastes with herbs and spices in order to prepare the dish.

Religions

Many religions have influenced Thailand. However, the main religion in Thailand is the Theravada Buddhism. 95% of the population believe in the religion whole the minorities are Muslims, Christians and Mahayana Buddhism. Theravada Buddhism is supported by the government. Monks were able to receive a few government benefits. Other than Theravada Buddhism, Indian Brahmanism and Mahayana Buddhism can still be seen. Both religions played an important role and influenced the Thai fold religion significantly.

Fashion and Etiquette

Thailand is also known for its traditional handicrafts. Being a Buddhism country, Thai people stress on proper behaviour and dress. Revealing too much and behaving rudely in public would be and offense to them.

Being the only Southeast Asia country that has not been colonized by the western powers, Thailand had preserved their very own culture and religion. Being a country with such rich culture and history, the country would be able to target tourists that are interested in culture and heritage.

Reference:

http://www.asiarooms.com/en/travel-guide/thailand/culture-of-thailand/index.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_Thailand