Walailak University Launches “Infinity Rich – Endless Wealth” Spiritual Tourism Route in Sichon District

Walailak University has officially launched a new spiritual tourism route titled “Infinity Rich – Endless Wealth @ Sichon”, connecting eight significant cultural and spiritual sites across Sichon District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, and nearby areas. Centered around Wat Chedi, the route invites spiritual travelers to experience auspicious blessings while stimulating local tourism and promoting sustainable income distribution within the community. The initiative is supported by the Area-Based Development Fund Management Unit (UEDA).

Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Phongsakornsangsilp, Vice President of Walailak University, revealed that from January 31 to February 2, 2025, the university collaborated with Wat Chedi (Ai Khai), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (Nakhon Si Thammarat Office), local administrative organizations, educational institutions, community groups, and UEDA to unveil the “Sichon Spiritual Trip: Heal Heart, Heal Life, Heal Luck @ Sichon – Infinity Rich”. This initiative is part of a research project titled “Cultural Capital Management Based on Belief Systems Surrounding the Ancient Sand Dune of Sichon to Enhance the Local Economy”, under the brand “SriChon,” symbolizing prosperity, fulfillment, and spiritual growth.

The Infinity Rich route includes eight key spiritual destinations:

1. Wat Yang Yai – Pay respects to Ta Phran Bun, share your troubles with Giant-faced Thao Wessuwan, and seek blessings from Deity-faced Thao Wessuwan.
2. Wat Silachonket – Pray to Phor Than Bo, a revered monk.
3. Khao Kha Ganesh Shrine – Whisper your wishes to Lord Ganesh and fulfill your vow with milk and sweets.
4. Wat Chedi (Ai Khai) – The spiritual heart of the route, known for granting wishes.
5. Chao Pho Muang Thong Shrine – Famous for its highly accurate fortune sticks.
6. Pueng Thao Kong Sai Si Shrine (Ta Pakhao Shrine) – Located at the mouth of the Sichon River.
7. Prince Chumphon Shrine – Honoring the Father of the Royal Thai Navy.
8. Wat Suchon – Pray to Thao Wessuwan (Phor Ruay) for wealth and success.

Along the route, visitors can enjoy local cuisine and shop for community-made products, contributing to the circular economy and increasing household income.

Dr. Siwarit emphasized that the project uses Wat Chedi as the cultural anchor, integrating local products into the tourism experience. Visitors not only receive spiritual blessings but also engage with the community, fostering sustainable development and encouraging travel to other nearby destinations.

The project also promotes eco-conscious cultural products, transforming vow-related items such as broken rooster figurines and firecracker remnants into value-added goods like bricks (“Merit Bricks”), keychains, eco-friendly batik, beaded Norah crafts, and the symbolic “Nam Ruay” Art Toy, believed to carry the energy of prosperity and success.

Source of information and news images: Walailak University website