Joanna James
If you're vacationing in Hua Hin, one of the best things you can do is explore the various temples scattered throughout the region. Not only do these showcase impressive craftsmanship, but they are also full of history and local culture. Here're the best 5 temples to visit in Hua Hin.
The Wat Hua Hin is the temple that bears the namesake of the region and is perhaps the most famous and culturally significant one you'll find in Hua Hin. Also referred to as the Wat Ampharam, this monastery is found at the very heart of Hua Hin Town. So, if you're staying at a centrally located hotel in the region, like the Avani+ Hua Hin Resort, be sure to visit this site. An elaborate set of decoration separate this temple from its surroundings. The insides are just as captivating being full of murals that depict the life of the Buddha.
You'll have to travel a distance of about 10 kilometres away from Hua Hin to reach the Wat Huay Mongkol, but the trip is definitely worth it. Every weekend, you'll find hundreds of Buddhist pilgrims visiting this monastery to pay their respects and receive a blessing. The most prominent feature found at this temple is the famous statue of Luang Phor Tuad. It depicts a Buddhist monk seated while meditating. It is one of the largest such statues found in Thailand being over 12 metres tall! The monastery is also surrounded by some serene natural landscapes. Just outside the complex, you'll find a large lake, numerous streams and even a couple of waterfalls – all of this natural serenity is sure to set your mind at ease for the rest of your trip.
Khao Takiab when translate means "Chopstick Hill", and a visit to the monastery that sits atop this hill is one of the best things to do in Hua Hin. Before you even reach the temple, you'll be treated to the scenic view of a resplendent beach and run into the friendly locals of the nearby village. If you're feeling hungry, there are a number of seaside restaurants for you to choose from before you set off up the hill. The temple itself is full of ornate Buddha statues and beautiful murals. It is also home to a large troop of monkeys! So be sure to catch the wily antics of these playful primates while you're here.
The Wat Khao Krai Lat is a majestic temple complex that sits atop a towering mountain, in between two other temples! Due to its remote location, not many travellers regularly visit this temple, so you can enjoy some peace and seclusion if you make your way up there. There are several fish ponds here and you can feed the fish to receive a lucky blessing.
This another temple that's nestled amidst a hilltop – you can hire a tuk-tuk to reach it instead of walking, however. Here you'll find magnificent statues of the Buddha standing, interrupted by massive bronze bells.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
