Enhancing Dvaravati-Khmer Cultural Tourism through AR: A Case Study in Thailand

<ns3:p>This study introduces an innovative Augmented Reality (AR) cultural application designed to enrich the tourism experience of the Dvaravati-Khmer civilization in Thailand. Addressing the scarcity of interactive digital tools at historical sites, which often fail to engage modern visitors effectively, our AR application integrates multiple functionalities, including 3D object scanning, VR site exploration, and a digital rally system. Developed using the Unity engine and Vuforia SDK, the application underwent rigorous user trials involving 43 participants to evaluate its impact on user experience, learning effectiveness, and engagement. Results demonstrated a 40% increase in historical knowledge retention, with 92% task completion rates and high user satisfaction (4.01/5). The application’s intuitive design and gamified elements significantly enhanced visitor interaction and learning. Here, we showcase an adaptable model for digital cultural tourism enhancement, providing practical insights for heritage preservation and visitor engagement.</ns3:p>