Joanna James
As one of the foremost Buddhist countries of the Theravada tradition, Thailand and its capital city feature exquisitely ornate temples, saffron-clad Buddhist monks, almsgiving and a spiritual practice focused on inner purity and wisdom.
Wat Pho is among the most significant temples in Thailand. The wat sits next to the Grand Palace and has one of the biggest displays of images of the Lord Buddha in Thailand. One of the highlights is the reclining, gold-covered Buddha statue which is 46 metres long. The statue is placed in a building surrounded by other embellishments, artwork and bronze bowls. Wat Pho was constructed under the patronage of King Rama I on the location of a neglected temple when he established the city of Bangkok. Thus the temple has a long history and is one of the oldest and largest in Bangkok. The temple grounds are full of vibrant stupas and splendid halls, like the Bhikkhu ordination hall.
Long before Bangkok came to be the capital of Thailand, the Kingdom's capital lay across the Chao Phraya river in Thonburi. The Thonburi Kingdom survived only 14 years, with a royal palace and Wat Arun built on the palace grounds. Wat Arun is spectacular, with its giant spire (‘prang’) extending 70 metres into the sky. In the early mornings, it glows with the first rays of the sun! There are also passageways with Buddha statues, chedis swathed in complex tile art, and beautifully decorated halls to explore. Found on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this iconic temple is a must-visit for those visiting Bangkok's temples. Serviced apartments in Bangkok the likes of Ascott Sathorn Bangkok make for great accommodation for tourists intent on exploring the city.
Also called the Golden Mount, Wat Saket is a temple that catches everyone's eye! Situated in the middle of Bangkok on the summit of the only hill in the city, the temple's golden roof shines brightly amid the hubbub of Bangkok. To reach the Golden Mount, there are 320 steps encircling the hill. You will be offered incredible views of the city as you ascend to its summit.
Constructed in 1896 under the guidance of King Rama V, Wat Ratchabophit temple combines Thai structural techniques on the exterior while European-style decks its interior. The temple lies encircled by a rectangular space, while the main area is circular. Walking around it, you will notice its different angles, while at its centre is the golden chedi. The interior, however, feels like a gothic-styled church! This site of the temple was once the Royal Cemetery. Here you’ll encounter numerous memorials to the Royal Family in the western part of the temple grounds.
Other than admiring the beautiful temples, take the opportunity to get to know what Buddhism is all about at Wat Prayong International Meditation Center. This centre, located in Bangkok's outskirts, holds meditation retreats on the first week of the month from November to February in Thai, English, and German. Their meditation retreats engage the yogis in the Buddha's teaching to help develop mindfulness and insight. The meditation programme was founded by Ajahn MC Brigitte, a Buddhist Nun, honoured by the UN in 2009 as an “outstanding woman in Buddhism".
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
