A sacred Buddha tooth relic from Beijing's Lingguang Temple completed a 4,500-kilometer pilgrimage to Bangkok in late 2024, symbolizing deepening cultural and diplomatic bonds between China and Thailand. The revered artifact will remain enshrined for 73 days, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations and the 72nd birthday of Thailand's monarch.
The relic's journey retraces its 2002 visit, with Lingguang Temple Abbot Venerable Chang Zang again leading ceremonial duties. "This spiritual exchange stands as clear evidence of the close bond between our two countries," Chang Zang told KhabarAsia, emphasizing the shared Buddhist heritage connecting 700 million followers across Asia.
Analysts note the timing highlights China's cultural diplomacy strategy in Southeast Asia, while strengthening people-to-people connections. The relic tour comes as bilateral trade reaches $135 billion annually, with Thailand participating in China's Belt and Road infrastructure initiative.
For Thailand's 40 million Buddhists and diaspora communities worldwide, the exhibition offers rare access to one of Buddhism's most venerated artifacts. Tourism authorities anticipate increased regional travel as devotees journey to pay respects.
