Thailand’s Rich Heritage: 14 Cultural Highlights

Thailand is famous for its beaches and street food, but its culture and way of life are what truly stand out. With over 95% of the population practicing Buddhism, the country is filled with peace, spirituality, and warmth. Religion touches everyday life, from golden temples and morning offerings to the politeness in every interaction. Visiting Thailand is about more than the scenery: it's about experiencing a culture of serenity and respect. Here’s a look at some of the key parts of Thai culture…

Written by Nhu PHAM (local expert)Updated on 05-08-2025

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Buddhism, the spiritual heart of Thai culture

In Thailand, Buddhism is everywhere: in everyday gestures, education, life choices and even in the way visitors are welcomed. With more than 95% of the population claiming to be Theravada Buddhists, this philosophy not only guides the spiritual life, but also shapes the fundamental values of society: benevolence, restraint and respect.

Temples (or wats) are much more than just places of prayer. They are the beating heart of the community: places of learning, mutual aid, gathering and moral education. Many families send their children to study the basics of ethical conduct at an early age, especially in rural areas.

Daily Buddhist practice, such as offering food to monks at dawn or silently following the rules of behavior, reveals a deep sense of merit (tham bun), an essential act for improving one's karma.

Tradition of Temporary Ordination Among Young Men in Thailand

In Thailand, entering holy orders is an almost unavoidable step for Buddhist men, often before marriage. Even for a short period of time (a few days or weeks), it shows piety, maturity and respect for parents.

The ordination ceremony includes several key stages: hair picking by the family, wearing the white outfit, procession to the temple, solemn vows and handing over the saffron robe. The atmosphere is both spiritual and festive, with dances, music and shared meals. Once ordained, the monk follows a strict schedule: waking up at 4 a.m., meditation, chanting, foraging at dawn, studying the texts, evening prayers, and living in absolute simplicity. He must comply with 227 rules of conduct.

Women, on the other hand, can reside temporarily in the temples, but without official religious status. They may not teach or lead rituals. Attending an ordination is a beautiful way to experience Thai culture from the inside. Proper attire is required (no black), a small donation is appreciated, and guests are encouraged to participate with respect and good humor.

The national flower, the yellow of devotion

The ratchaphruek, also known as the cassia fistula or "golden flowering tree", is the national flower of Thailand. For Thais, its bright yellow color symbolizes not only fame and prosperity, but also Buddhism, the country's dominant religion.

This flower can be found everywhere: lining the streets, in allotments, or in temples. It is often used during important religious ceremonies or to make garlands for distinguished guests. A floral symbol that is both humble and deeply respected.

The culture of salvation in Thailand

In Thailand, politeness and respect are at the heart of social relations. One of the most well-known symbols of this culture is the wai – a greeting gesture where one joins the hands in front of the chest or forehead while bowing the head slightly. The higher the hands, the greater the respect expressed.

The wai is used to greet, thank, apologize, or show respect. It's a gesture that can be seen everywhere, from the market to the temples.

When you meet a monk, a few important rules apply. Women should not touch them. If they have to hand something to a monk, it's better to go through a man or put the object on the ground. These small gestures show the finesse of Thai codes.

Knowing how to observe and respect these customs not only helps to avoid clumsiness, but also to better understand the gentle and respectful spirit of the Thai people. Read more about: Hello in Thai? Guide to greeting like a local

Traditional Attire, Thai Elegance and Sparkle

The Chut Thai, a traditional Thai costume, is worn at festivals, religious ceremonies and official events. It reflects the refinement of the local culture through its fabrics, colours and neat cuts.

• For women, styles such as Thai Chakkri, Siwalai or Borompiman enhance the figure with brightly toned silk fabrics, delicate drapes and elegant finishes. Each outfit embodies both grace and cultural pride.
• Men, on the other hand, wear a traditional shirt combined with a kraben (draped trousers) and sometimes a ceremonial scarf. These outfits, sober but distinguished, are reserved for important occasions.

Thai cuisine, queen of global street food

Renowned for its explosive flavours, Thai cuisine seduces with its subtle balance of sour, spicy, salty and sweet. The key ingredients? Chilli, lime and lemongrass. The dishes are also a real feast for the eyes, often colorful and appetizing. Here are some must-sees:

• Pad Thai: Stir-fried noodles with shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts and peanuts, served with a touch of lemon and chilli.
• Tom Yum: Iconic hot and sour soup, made with shrimp, mushrooms, lemongrass, galangal, and chili. An explosion of flavors in the mouth.
• Khao Soi: A northern specialty, this noodle curry is served in a coconut milk broth, topped with chicken or beef, and topped with crispy noodles.
• Khao Niew Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice): A popular dessert mixing sticky rice, fresh mango, and sweetened coconut milk. Soft, creamy and refreshing.

>>> For more information, please read: Signature Thai Cuisine: Top 10 Must-Try Thai Dishes

The tuk-tuk, a symbol of urban life in Thailand

It is impossible to talk about Thai culture without mentioning the famous tuk-tuk. This motorized tricycle, halfway between a motorcycle and a taxi, is an integral part of the urban landscape, especially in Bangkok and in the big cities. Used by both locals and travelers, it embodies a typical Thai way of getting around: fast, open to the outside, a little chaotic but still full of charm.

If you're visiting Thailand, feel free to take at least one tuk-tuk ride – a fun and local experience. Just remember to negotiate or ask for the price before going up!

The Sak Yant tattoo

Sak Yant is a sacred art of tattooing, performed with Sanskrit or Pali characters, most often by monks in Buddhist monasteries. Far beyond the aesthetic aspect, these tattoos have a deep spiritual meaning: they are supposed to protect their wearer from bad luck and attract good luck. The designs usually depict sacred figures or powerful symbols such as tigers, snakes, or depictions of the Buddha, symbolizing a close connection to divine forces.

Sak Yant occupies an important place in Buddhist rituals in Thailand, especially during the yant invocation ceremonies, conducted by renowned tattoo masters. Learn more about Thai Tattoo, the secrets of the Sak Yant.

LGBTQ+, an essential facet of Thai culture

Thailand is one of the most open countries in Asia towards the LGBTQ+ community. Even if legal equality is only partially achieved, their presence is fully assumed in society. When you travel to Thailand, you may be surprised to see so many transgender people (kathoey) working in hospitality, spas, tourism, or media. Their visibility is natural, respected and well integrated into daily life.

The country is also recognized as a major destination for gender reassignment surgeries, thanks to reputable clinics and high-level medical know-how.

👉 But why such an opening?

• Buddhism, the majority religion, emphasizes individual karma rather than moral judgments, which promotes tolerance.
• A less rigid social culture: Thailand values harmony and self-expression, leaving more room for diverse identities.
• Media influence: Movies, series, and pageants like Miss Tiffany's Universe have normalized the LGBTQ+ presence in popular culture.

Today, Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket host Pride events and have become flagship destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers from all over the world.

Muay Thai, Thailand's 600-year-old national sport

Muay Thai, often referred to as Thai boxing, is much more than just a martial art. Born on the ancient battlefields, it is now considered a symbol of national identity. Each fight is preceded by a codified ritual, the Wai Khru, where the boxer pays tribute to his masters in a dance imbued with respect and spirituality. Practiced throughout the country, taught in both camps and temples, Muay Thai embodies the discipline, faith and cultural pride of the Thai people.

Khon, Royal Dance of Thailand

Khon is a traditional dance emblematic of Thailand, considered a royal art. It is characterized by the wearing of masks and elaborate costumes, and combines dance, theater and classical music. The Khon tells the mythological tales of the Ramakien, the Thai version of the Indian epic Ramayana. There are famous characters such as Hanuman, Ravana or Sita.

The dancers wear intricately decorated masks, long capes, shiny costumes, and symbolic accessories. Khon is often presented at major festivals or in official ceremonies. It is a powerful and refined form of artistic expression, which embodies Thailand's cultural richness and spiritual heritage.

Colourful festivals

Songkran – Thai New Year (April 13 to 15)

It is the biggest holiday of the year in Thailand. It marks renewal, purification, and the arrival of good luck for the coming year. Songkran highlights:

• Water fights in the streets, with buckets and water guns
• Temple visits, offerings, and prayers
• Buddha statue baths with fragrant water
• Family Rites: Blessing Elders with Water
• Traditional parades and shows
• It is a time of joy, sharing and festive atmosphere throughout the country.

Loy Krathong – the floating lantern festival

Celebrated during the full moon in November, this holiday pays homage to the goddess of water. Thais place small decorated rafts (krathong) on the rivers to thank the water and let go of the worries of the past year. The atmosphere is magical, between lights, silence and spirituality.

Yi Peng – the lanterns in the sky of Chiang Mai

In Chiang Mai, the festival of Loy Krathong takes on another dimension: thousands of flying lanterns are released into the sky. This spectacular moment symbolizes the abandonment of past sorrows and the hope of a bright future.

📌 Loy Krathong and Yi Peng 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Decorative art and architecture

Thai architecture reflects a subtle harmony between Buddhism, royal heritage, and folk traditions. Iconic temples such as Wat Phra Kaew or Wat Arun are distinguished by their curved roofs, slender stupas and intricately carved ornaments, perfectly illustrating the fusion between spirituality and architectural art.

These buildings are not only places of worship, but also true masterpieces, carrying a legacy of grandeur and power. The Grand Palace and other royal residences, as well as the historical remains of Ayutthaya, are a testament to the wealth and power of Thailand's ancient dynasties.

Traditional Thai Wedding

The traditional Thai wedding is a beautiful balance between Buddhist rites and local customs. The ceremony often lasts several days and includes important steps such as the ritual bathing of Buddha, offerings to ancestors and the exchange of rings – all gestures to wish for a happy and lasting union.

The outfits are also very symbolic: the bride wears an embroidered silk dress accompanied by a traditional shawl, while the groom opts for a sober suit in local style. Beyond elegance, these garments express respect for cultural heritage.

A highlight of the wedding is the blood kheo ritual, where relatives tie sacred threads around the wrists of the bride and groom while taking vows of happiness. In some regions, khom loi lanterns are lit or traditional games are held to create a friendly and joyful atmosphere.

A few words to conclude,

As you walk through these elements, you now get a comprehensive overview of Thai culture – rich, alive, and deeply rooted in the daily lives of its people. Well beyond its paradisiacal beaches, among the most beautiful in the world, Thailand also seduces with the warmth of its people, the diversity of its gastronomy, and the richness of its traditions, between spirituality, art and hospitality. A Southeast Asian country that is both exotic and welcoming, which never ceases to amaze those who take the time to discover it in a different way.

👉 Read also:

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