Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Wat Phra Boromthat and Ancient Tak City : Tak



The area of Wat Phra Boromthat in Amphoe Ban Tak is the former site of Ancient Tak City. Lying along the bank of Maenam Ping, approximately 25 kilometers north of the City, the site contains several ruins including the legendary hill-top pagoda in Phum Khao Binth style (of Sukhothai era).

The pagoda was built by King Ramkhamhaeng the Great to mark his victory in the hand to hand combat on the elephants back against King Khun Sam Chon, the ruler of Muang Chot (currently Amphoe Mae Sot). The pagoda shares Myanmar's famous Chawedagong's features and houses holy Buddha relics. Locally known as the royal pagoda or Chedi Yutta Hatthi, it is located next to Wat Phra Boromthat.

The temple (Wat Phra Boromthat) itself is extraordinary with wooden door panels and roof decorations that are magnificently crafted. In addition, the story of the Lord Buddha is depicted on the temples wooden window panels which are covered in real gold.

Photo credits to thai-tour.com

Wat Si Talaram : Tak



Located in Trok Ban Chin, Wat Sri Talaram is not just an ordinary temple located in a peaceful area. The most unique feature of Wat Sri Talaram is its European-style architecture, reflected in its ordination hall. In addition, enshrined within the sermon hall made of carved wood is an ancient Ayuthaya-style Buddha image.
Photo credits to thai-tour.com

Wat Khao Di Salak : Suphanburi


The hilltop temple is located in Tambon Don Kha, 8 kilometres from downtown Amphoe U Thong. It houses quite a special Buddha’s footprint, a bas-relief footprint carved out of red sandstone. The footprint is 65.5 centimetres wide and 141.5 centimetres long.


Buddha footprint

Archaeologists presumed that the footprint is an art object of the Dvaravati style, dating back to 9th -11th century. Furthermore, Buddha images and artefacts were discovered from a rock cavity. From the peak, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the town.

Photo credits to www.suphanburi.go.th

Wat Pa Lelai : Suphanburi



This is a very old temple located on the west bank of the river on Malaimaen Road in the town. It is believed to have been built some 800 years ago when Suphan Buri was a prosperous community. A huge sitting Buddha image named "Luang Pho To", 23 metres in height, is enshrined in the main chapel. The image was originally situated in the open area and was later covered by the chapel. Worship fairs celebrating the image are held twice a year in April and November.

In addition, an old Thai style house called Khum Khun Chang has been built in the temple compound. The design of the construction has followed the description in Khun Chang-Khun Phan, a classic Thai poem which is a work of Sunthon Phu, the greatest poet of Thailand during the early Bangkok period.

Photo credits to www.suphanburi.go.th

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Wat Chula Mani : Samut Songkhram



Wat Chula Mani is located on Highway 325 (Samut Songkhram – Bang Phae) between Km 34-35 in Tambon Bang Chang. This ancient temple sits on the bank where the Amphawa Canal connects with the Phi Lok Canal. The temple was built in the Ayutthaya period during the late reign of King Prasatthong. It was presumed that Thao Kaeophaluek (Noi), Mistress of the Bang Chang Market and a forebear of the royal lineage of Bang Chang, built the temple. The back of the temple was initially the residence of Khun Nak (Queen Ammarinthramat of King Rama I) and Khun Bunrot (Queen Si Suriyenthramat of King Rama II).

Photo credits to thai-tour.com

Wat Samuha Pradittharam : Saraburi


Wat Samuha Pradittharam is located in Suan Dok Mai Sub-district, 2 kilometres from the District Office. Its Ubosot was completely constructed in 1897.


mural painting in Wat Samuha Pradittharam

Inside are very beautiful mural paintings depicting the Khawi folk tale, the main Buddha image taken from Sukhothai’s Ancient City and cast of bronze covering with gold leaves in the posture of subduing Mara, as well as, the images of the Lord’s 2 major disciples: Moggallana and Sariputta residing on both sides. In September every year, a traditional long boat race is organised at this temple.

photo credits to www.saraburitourism.com