This paper aims to present the comparative research perspectives of studies on Buddhist places of worship in mainland Southeast Asia by examining the data collected through a field survey conducted in four districts in Kampong Thum Province, central Cambodia, during the Buddhist Lent seasons in 2009, 2010, and 2011.Theravada Buddhism had penetrated into almost every part of mainland Southeast Asia by about 1,000 years ago. The majority of the lowland populations in mainland Southeast Asian countries are Buddhists, and various kinds of Buddhist practice may be observed in their daily lives. Among the most interesting characteristics of Buddhist culture in this area are its commonality and diversity. To uncover the features of this, this paper examines 87 Buddhist places of worship with a special focus on their differences and formative processes. By doing so, the paper finally points out two rationales for building Buddhist places of worship in the area. In the conclusion, this paper emphasizes the importance of time-space analysis of Buddhist practices, not only to deepen an understanding of the dynamic formation of Theravada culture in mainland Southeast Asia but also to explore the significance of religious practices in human life.
