Wat Thai Temple

Wat Tha Sung : Uttraradit

2011-05-26T00:12:00.000-07:00

Wat Tha Sung (another name is Wat Chantharam) is at Mu 2, Tambon Nam Sum. It is an old temple from the Ayutthaya period. It was formerly called “Wat Chan” which is the name of an abbot. Wat Chantharam later was abandoned until 1789 when the monk Luang Pho Yai came here. Villagers asked him to become the abbot of the temple and he renovated it.

The first location of the temple was on the bank of Sakae Krang River. The artifact of the place is a pulpit built by Luang Pho Yai that is opposite the temple. More buildings were later added by the monk Phra Ratchaphrom Yan Nen (Luang Pho Ruesi Ling Dam). The new convocation hall is beautiful with an ornately decorated interior.

The inner windows and doors have pictures of angels. His Majesty the King presided over a ceremony to officially open the building. Surronding the building is a traditional columned wall. Images of Luang Pho Pan and Luang Pho Yai 3 times the actual size is at the corner of the front wall. Furthermore, the new site has a wide area as well as many pavilions with accommodation for meditation. The main hall is open during 09.00-11.45 hrs. and 14.00-16.00 hrs. daily.

Wat Ming Mueang : Nan

2011-05-08T02:10:00.000-07:00

Wat Ming Mueang is on Suriyaphong Road. It was constructed in 1857. Its distinguishing point is the stucco reliefs on the outer wall of the ubosot, presenting the skill of the Chiang Saen craftsmen. The patterns are very exquisite. Within the ubosot are mural paintings depicting the lifestyles of the Nan people by present-day local craftsmen. Moreover, within the compound of the temple stands the city pillar in a cruciform-plan pavilion at its front. The city pillar is 3 metres high. Its base is decorated with engraved and gilded wooden design. The top of the pillar was engraved into 4 faces of the Brahma God, representing Phrom Wihan (Brahmavihara) 4 – the four sublime states of mind; namely, Metta - kindness, Karuna - compassion, Mudita – sympathy, and Upekkha - equanimity.

Wat Woranat Banphot : Nakhon Sawan

2011-05-08T01:55:00.000-07:00

Wat Woranat Banphot (Khao Kop) is an old temple of the province on the peak of Khao Kop 185.5 meters above sea level. There are 2 ways up; a stairway of 439 steps and an asphalt road 3 meters wide. The peak has a replica of Lord Buddhas Footprint and a pagoda encasing the relic of Lord Buddha built when Sukhothai was the countrys capital. The temple was praised by the Department of Religious Affairs as the best development temple of 1966. A nearby hill is the site of some television relay stations.

Wat Phra Boromthat and Ancient Tak City : Tak

2010-02-09T05:03:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-09T04:58:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-09T04:42:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-09T04:28:00.000-08:00

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

Wat Chula Mani : Samut Songkhram

2010-01-24T20:27:00.000-08:00

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

2010-01-24T19:52:00.000-08:00

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

Wat Songtham Worawihan : Samut Prakarn

2009-11-03T04:32:00.000-08:00

Wat Songtham Worawihan is an old temple of Mon-Buddhism sect. It was constructed at the same time when Muang Nakhon Khuaenkhan was being built, during the reign of King Rama III. At present, it is a second class royal monastery. The huge Phra Raman Chedi was built in Mon style. Buildings in this temple are built of brick and cement. A decoration on the roof of the temple is made of teak. The replication of Lord Buddha's Footprint was enshrined inside the temple.

Tags : buddhist temple /Thailand Temple /Thailand

Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat : Ratchaburi

2009-10-14T06:34:00.000-07:00

This ancient temple, locally called Wat Na Phra That, is situated on the west bank of the Mae Klong River in the town. Its elegant prang or pagoda remains in good condition and was probably copied from Cambodia's Angkor Wat. The prang made of bricks and stones stands on a rectangular base with pathways around the cloisters. The outer stucco designs were made in the reign of King Borommakot of Ayutthaya. Buddha images of Dvaravati, Lop Buri and Ayutthaya periods are placed around the pagoda.

2 kilometres west of Wat Na Phra That on the route to Khao Ngu is Wat Aranyik with a prang identical to that of Wat Na Phra That but smaller in size.

Photo credits to http://ecurriculum.mv.ac.th

Tags: Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat/Ratchaburi/buddhist temple/Thailand/thai temple/wat thai

Wat Khian Bang Kaeo : Phatthalung

2009-10-14T05:50:00.000-07:00

This temple is on Highway No. 4081, 7 kilometres past Khao Chaison district office, in the area of Ban Bang Kaeo at Km. 14. A left-hand road leads to the temple. Wat Khian is situated on the bank of Songkhla Lake. This old monastery has the sacred Phra That Bang Kaeo, built in the same style as Phra Maha That Chedi in Nakhon Si Thammarat but smaller. This is one of the oldest historical sites of Phatthalung, dating back to the early Ayutthaya period. It is believed that the temple area was once the site of Phatthalung town because many laterite ruins and Buddha images have been found her

Tags: Wat Khian Bang Kaeo/Phatthalung/buddhist temple/Thailand/thai temple/wat thai

Wat Li : Phayao

2009-10-09T22:19:00.000-07:00

Wat Li is located at Ban Lai Ing, near the 3rd Municipality School, Wiang Sub-district. It is an ancient and significant temple of Phayao constructed in 1495 to be presented to Phrachao Yot Chiang Rai, the king of Chiang Mai Town.

Li is its original name. It is an ancient northern Thai dialect, meaning Kat or Talat or market. Therefore, it means a temple in the area of the market community. Within the compound of the temple, there are important ancient remains; namely, Phrathat Wat Li, and many artefacts of the Phayao Kingdom, especially the sandstone Buddha images. Moreover, there is a museum collecting various artefacts.

Photo credits to www.thai-tour.com

Related Post :Temple in Phayao
- Wat Tha Fa Tai
- Wat Analayo-Doi Busarakham

Tags: Wat Li/Phayao/buddhist temple/Thailand/thai temple/wat thai

Wat Khao Khunpanom : Nakhon Si Thamarat

2009-09-30T06:59:00.000-07:00

This temple is at Moo 3, Tambol Baan Koh, take Highway 4016 from the city to 21st Milestone pass Promloke Market, turn right into the street for another 2.5 km.

Wat Khao Khunpanom is an important temple in history and archaeology. It has caves with cement wall and markers like the city wall. The front wall is decorated with chinaware. Inside the caves are about 30 statues of Buddha made from copper and a copper Buddha’s footprint.

Some of the caves here are connected. It was assumed that this was the residency of King Taksin the Great but some said it was the recreation place of Princess Kaesinee the daughter of Chao Nara Suriyawong, who ruled Nakhonsithammarat from 1769 to 1776.

From the conversation of the monk at this temple, there are many who believe that this was the place King Taksin came to make merit with his followers after being abdicated from the throne. He later died while being a monk at this temple. On the walkway up the hill, there’s a Science Centre for Study of Khao Khunpanom to give knowledge in science, technology, environment and eco-tourism to the public.

The community of Khao Khumpanom is a cultural community. There are many activities such as boy-scout camping & meeting, tourism group to visit fruit orchards with bicycles, etc.

Photo credits to www.thai-tour.com
[source: www.nakhontourism.org]

Tags: Wat Khao Khunpanom/Nakhon Si Thamarat/buddhist temple/Thailand/thai temple/wat thai

Thai Style Monk’s House at Wat Wang West : Nakhon Si Thamarat

2009-09-30T06:48:00.000-07:00

It’s situated on Ratchadamnern Road on the area that is believed to be opposite the East Palace that belonged to Chaojom Prang. It used to be a park and later Chaophaya Nakhon (Noi) gave the East Palace and the park opposite to the temple so it became Wat Wang West (West Palace Temple). In 1888, Prakroo Kachad (Yong) and his disciples had built a set of monk’s house with 3 buildings consisted of gabled-roof, each roof connected to each other. The houses used carved- wooden partitions. The doors, windows and ventilators were decorated with unique Nakhon-style. In 1992 the Siam Architectural Society had picked
[source: www.nakhontourism.org]

Tags : Wat Wang West /Nakhon Si Thamarat /buddhist temple /Thai temple

Wat Si Mongkhon Tai : Mukdahan

2009-09-30T04:10:00.000-07:00

Wat Si Mongkhon Tai is near the immigration checkpoint. The temple houses an important Buddha image of the province, Phra Chao Ong Luang, an image built before the citys founding. This brick image is 2.2 metres wide and 2 metres high. According to legend, the first lord of Mukdahan discovered it while he was overseeing the citys construction. In addition, another image made of steel was found under a Bodi tree with only its top part protruding from the ground.

Photo credits to www.thai-tour.com

Tags: Wat Si Mongkhon Tai/Mukdahan/buddhist temple/Thailand/thai temple/wat thai

Phra Narai Ratchaniwet (King Narais Palace) : Lopburi (2)

2009-09-25T22:57:00.000-07:00

[Photo credits to www.tat.or.th]

Structures built during the reign of King Narai the Great include:

Chantara Phaisan Pavilion

The first Palace of King Narai the Great in Lop Buri, the Pavilion was subsequently turned into an audience hall after he moved his residence to the Suttha Sawan Pavilion. The fact that the building is of pure Thai architectural style indicates that no French architects were involved in the design and construction process. King Rama IV (King Mongkut of the Ratanakosin era) restored the building in 1863. The Pavilion was once used by the privy-council as a meeting hall. Now, it serves as a hall displaying archaeological and art objects, especially the Lop Buri-style stone Buddha images, historic paintings from the era of King Narai the Great and Buddhist art objects from the Ayutthaya and Ratanakosin period.

Phra Khlang Supharat

This compound was built as a place to store royal treasures and royal goods sold to foreign merchants during the late 1600s. It is commonly known as the Twelve Treasure Houses.

Elephant and Horse Stables

This compound is located close to the wall separating the outer and middle sections of the Palace.

The Water Reservoir

Constructed during the reign of King Narai the Great, the reservoir stored water which came from a freshwater lake Tale Chupsorn, through the well designed terra cotta pipes. Tale Chupsorn was the main lake supplying drinking water to Lop Buri residents.

The Dusit Sawan Thanya Maha Prasat Hall

Constructed under the royal command of King Narai the Great, the Hall was formerly used by King Narai as an audience hall receiving high-ranking foreign ambassadors. This was the place where the King received Chevalier de Chaumont, the representative of King Louis XIV of France. The Hall was built in a perfect blending of French and Thai architectural styles.

The Suttha Sawan Pavilion

The Pavilion was once located amidst a beautifully decorated garden with ponds and fountains. This was the place where King Narai the Great resided and died on 11 July 1688. Apart from the Pavilion, which had been restored by King Mongkut, only the remains of man-made hills and fountains can be seen.

Kraison Siharat Hall

Commonly known as Phra Thinang Yen, the Hall is located on an island in a dried up lake, Thale Chupson, which once supplied fresh drinking water to the people of Lop Buri. Kraison Siharat Hall was used as the residence of King Narai, Jesuits and envoys of King Louis XIV of France when they came to witness a lunar eclipse on 11 December, 1685

Phra Chao Hao Building

Built by King Narai the Great, the building is located to the south of the outer section of the palace. Serving as the Kings private audience hall, the building featured Thai-style architecture of which it is currently possible to see only the remains of wall sections with visible decorative motifs at the doors and windows.

Banquet Hall

Surrounded on three sides by ponds, the Hall was built to entertain important foreign visitors. One of the remains includes a brick platform facing the Hall, which was used as a stage or theater possibly for shadow plays or dances indicating that the place was once used as an entertainment compound.

Phiman Mongkut Pavilion

This pavilion was a three-story brick building where King Rama IV (King Mongkut) resided when he visited Lop Buri during the renovation of the Palace. Connected to the pavilion are three other buildings namely Suttha Winitchai Pavilion, Chai Sattrakon Pavilion and Akson Sattrakhom. All of these buildings are now being used as the offices of the Lop Buri National Museum.

Phra Prathiap Building

A group of eight two-story buildings built behind King Mongkut's residence (Phiman Mongkut Pavilion), which were used as residences for inner court officials.

Royal Guards Residence

This is located at the entrance of the middle court.

Phra Narai Ratchaniwet (King Narais Palace) : Lopburi (1)

Tags: Phra Narai Ratchaniwet/Lopburi/Thailand/ancient/Palace

Phra Narai Ratchaniwet (King Narais Palace) : Lopburi (1)

2009-09-25T21:27:00.000-07:00

[Photo credits to www.tat.or.th]

The palace was built in 1665 and 1677, when King Narai the Great decided to make Lop Buri the second capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Although the buildings were designed by with the contributions of French architects, the Khmer influence was still strong. The Palace was a perfect blend of the both world, an awesome mixture of Khmer-European styles.

After the death of King Narai the Great in 1688, the palace was deserted. It was not until the reign of King Rama IV during the Ratanakosin era, that the Palace was restored and renamed Narai Ratchaniwet.

The Palace is located in the town center, between Ratchadamnoen Road and Pratu Chai Road. The whole complex has been turned into the Lop Buri National Museum (commonly known as King Narai National Museum).

The Palace can be accessed through the Pratu Phayakkha, which is currently a town park, located off Sorasak Road. The Palace opens Wednesdays through Sundays from 7.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Within the Palace lies a number of compounds containing pavilions, some built during the reign of King Narai and others constructed during the reign of King Rama IV.

Tags: Phra Narai Ratchaniwet/Lopburi/Thailand/ancient/Palace

Wat Phra Si Maha That : Lopburi

2009-09-19T20:15:00.000-07:00

The oldest temple with tallest Prang in Lop Buri, Wat Phra Si Maha That is located behind the railway station near the San Phra Kan. The Lop-Buri style prang in front of the temple was built around 1157 when the town came under Khmer rule. The U-Thong style Buddha images on the prang and the large viharn were later added by King Narai the Great. The laterite prang still has some original lintels and stucco work intact. A number of other chedis and prangs - most of which were restored were greatly influenced by both the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya styles.

The admission fee is 50 baht each. A package ticket is also visiting at 150 baht each, covering admission to Phra Prang Sam Yot, Vichayen House and Kraison Siharat Hall

[ Photo credits to http://lms.thaicyberu.go.th ]

Tags: Wat Phra Si Maha That/Lopburi/buddhist temple/ancient/thai temple/wat thai

Wat Phra Bat Huai Tom : Lamphun

2009-09-17T07:59:00.000-07:00

Wat Phra Bat Huai Tom is the largest temple in the district, boasting a large Lanna-style Chedi and an extensive place of worship built in laterite by Karens living in the vicinity who were admirers of the highly revered Phra Kru Ba Chaiwongsa. The temple is about 5 kilometres off Highway No. 106 at Km. 47. About 2 kilometres from Li is a group of five old pagoda known as the Chedi Ha Duang The site is believed to have been an ancient town. Covering an area of over 1,000 square kilometres is the Mae Ping National Park. Its main feature is the Ping River, which flows through the forests in the park. On both sides are fertile forest-lands with sheer cliffs providing beautiful natural scenery. Certain parts of the waterway spread out to form reservoir-like bodies of water with numerous small islands and rapids.

[Photo source: www.rakpratat.com]

Tags: Lamphun/Wat Phra Bat Huai Tom/buddhist temple/Thailand Temple/Wat/thai temple

Wat Phra That Chom Ping and Wat Si Rong Mueang : Lampang

2009-09-17T07:35:00.000-07:00

Wat Phra That Chom Ping :
Using the same route as Wat Phra That Lampang Luang but taking a left turn at the district office and continue on for 14 kilometres is Wat Phra That Chom Ping. Another age-old temple of Lampang, its unique feature is the reflections in natural colors of Chedi which appear on the floor within the dark interior of the Ubosot.

Wat Si Rong Mueang :
To the west of town is Wat Si Rong Mueang , a Burmese temple built in 1905 during the time when Lampang was the commercial and forestry centre. Major architectural works include the Vihan made of wood with several overlapping gables in the Burmese style. It is a temple with elaborate carving decorations and plaster designs adorned with colored glass fashioned with delicate craftsmanship.

Photo source: www.lampangcity.go.th, www.thai-tour.com

Tags : Wat Phra That Chom Ping/Wat Si Rong Mueang/Lampang /thai temple/Thailand Temple/buddhist temple

Wat Tham Suea ( Tiger Cave Temple ) : Krabi

2009-09-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

Wat Tham Suea, also known as "Tiger cave Temple," is located in the Khiriwong Valley amidst lush forests and mountains with large trees over a hundred years old approximately 9 kilometers northeast of Krabi Town. Aside from being the site of a meditation center, the compound is also a place of archaeological and historical interest as excavations have uncovered stone tools, pottery remains and Buddha footprint crafting molds. In addition, a cave in the compound has what appears to be tiger paw prints in the stone.

Photo source : www.watthumsuakrabi.com

Tags : Wat Tham Suea/Tiger Cave Temple/Krabi/Thai temple/buddhist temple

Wat Phra That Doi Tung : Chiang Rai

2009-09-17T06:40:00.000-07:00

Wat Phra That Doi Tung is located on top of Doi Tung Mountain, the highest mountain in Chiang Rai Province with an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters, about 50 kilometers south of Mae Sai town which is near the Myanmar border. The temple can be reached via a 40-kilometer mountain road which meanders along the mountainside. The journey is worthwhile as the panoramic views into Laos and Myanmar at the peak are spectacular.

Wat Phra That Doi Tung was constructed in the 10th century and was renovated by Chiang Rai's most famous ruler King Mengrai during the 13th century and by the famous Chiang Mai monk, Khru Ba Siwichai, at the turn of the 20th century.

The temple complex is comprised of twin Lanna style chedis, one of which is said to contain the left collarbone of the Lord Buddha. Throughout the year, the holy relic draws devout Buddhists from all over Thailand, Laos and Myanmar.

Tags : Wat Phra That Doi Tung/Chiang Rai/Thailand/Thai temple/buddhist temple

Royal Palace : Ayutthaya

2009-09-11T04:10:00.000-07:00

Currently called “Ancient Palace”. The residential palace of every king was located close to the city wall of Ayutthaya. A road passes by from Chantharakasem Palace, which is two kilometres away to the north. Important buildings inside the Grand Palace compound are :

Wihan Somdet Hall The top of this hall has been decorated in a unique style of architecture called Prang. It has longer space in front and rear gabled rooms, and shorter space in the side gabled rooms. It was surrounded with a three-sided cloister and utilized for various royal ceremonies such as coronations. This was the first building over constructed in Ayutthaya to be affixed with gold leaf.

Sanphet Prasat Hall This is the middle building construted in the same design as Wihan Somdet Hall. Kings used it to welcome foreign envoys and visitors.

Suriyat Amarin Hall A four-gabled roof building constructed of sandstone and brick ; it is close to the riverside city wall. It was used as a place to witness the royal barge processions.

Chakkrawat Phaichayon Hall With a three-gabled roof, it is on the inner eastern city wall in front of the Grand Palace. It was used to view processions and military practice.

Trimuk Hall This is located behind the Sanphet Prasat Hall. It is believed to have been the residential area of the consort members and is also the royal relaxing place in the garden.

Banyong Rattanat Hall Formerly known by the name of “Phra Thinang Thaisa”, it is located in the back compound of the Grand Palace on an Island in a pond. It has a four-gabled roof architecture.

Remains of the throne halls that are left to be seen at present were constructed in the reign of King Borommatrailokkanat and used to serve as royal residences for all later kings.

Open daily during 6.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.

Admission is 50 Baht each. A package ticket is also available at 220 Baht each, covering admission to temples and museums within the province and valid for 30 days, including Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the Ancient Palace Complex, Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Chai Watthanaram and Wat Maheyong. For more details, please call Tel. 0 3524 2501, 0 3524 4570.

Photo source : wikipedia

Tags : Royal Palace /Ayutthaya /Ayutthaya Period /Ancient Palace /Thailand

Wat Chaiyo Worawihan or Wat Ket Chaiyo : Ang Thong

2009-09-11T03:25:00.000-07:00

Wat Ket Chaiyo is situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, approximately 18 kilometers away from Amphoe Mueang Ang Thong, on Ang Thong Sing Buri route. This is the second-class royal monastery. Formerly it was a small ordinary temple constructed in the Ayutthaya period with the unknown building date. Later in the reign of King Rama IV, this temple was noted when Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To Phromrangsi) a revered monk of Wat Rakhangkhositaram in Thonburi constructed a large seated Buddha image in the posture of meditation made of white plaster.

In the reign of King Rama V, His Majesty the King went to worship the image and had Wat Chaiyo renovated in 1887 but the vibration from ramming piles of the wihan caused the large Buddha image to collapse. The king then commanded to build a new large Buddha image following the pattern of the large Buddha image at Wat Kalayanamit. The new one has the lap width of 16.10 meters and the height (from radiance to feet) of 22.65 meters and was graciously named Phra Mahaphutthaphim. There was the biggest celebration for the image ever held in Ang Thong at that time. The molded statue of Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To Phromrangsi) constructed in 1894, having the lap width of 5 meters and the height of 7 meters, has been enshrined in the wihan facing the Chao Phraya River.

The large Buddha image housed in this wihan is larger, more elegant, and more remarkable wihan than any other, therefore, Buddhists from various parts of the country have continuously paid homage to this image. In front of the wihan, the ubosot facing the was constructed using the magnificent Thai architectural design. Inside the ubosot, there are mural paintings depicting scenes of the Lord Buddhas chronicles painted by the artisan in the reign of King Rama V, and the molded statue of Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To Phromrangsi) from Thonburi. At present, Chao Phraya RiverWat Chaiyo Worawihan has been renovated to exhibit its distinctive beauty.

Photo credits to kedchaiyo.com, dhammathai.org

Tags: Buddha image/Wat Ket Chaiyo/Ang Thong/wat thai/Thailand temple/thai temple/buddhist temple

Wat Phra Thaen Sila At : Uttaradit

2009-09-11T03:04:00.000-07:00

[ Photo : ecurriculum.mv.ac.th ]

A little further from Wat Phra Yun, some 14 kilometres from town is Wat Phra Thaen Sila At. The major feature is the base of a sermon platform built with laterite. The square slab with pattern is believed to have been made during the Sukhothai Period. Annual celebrations are held at the three temples in February.

Tags : Wat Phra Thaen Sila At /Uttaradit/Thailand/Thai temple/buddhist temple

Wat Khao Wong : Uthai Thani

2009-09-09T22:04:00.000-07:00

Wat Khao Wong is a temple in a valley. It has a beautiful two-storey Thai-style convocation hall. The area has been exquisitely landscaped. The monastery is the 13th of 19 branches of Wat Sangkhathan in Nonthaburi that are in places such as Chiang Mai, Um Phang, the United Kingdom, and India. The monastery was built in 1987 and has a total area of 320,000 square metres. The surrounding area is mountain and forest.

The most striking feature of Khao Wong Monastery is the 4-storey Thai-style multi-purpose pavilion. Built almost entirely of wood, the pavilion has a pond in front with many fish. Around the pond is a garden of colourful flowers. The wood used in the pavilion’s construction was donated by locals and has been transformed into a work of architecture that retains natural qualities. The monastery has a monthly meditation class for those who are interested.

Getting There: Use the same route as Phu Wai Cave. It is about 3 kilometres before reaching the cave (there is a cooperative store selling souvenirs and free accommodation for up to 200 persons).

Tags : Wat Khao Wong /Uthai Thani/Thailand/Thai temple

Prasat Yai Ngao : Surin

2009-09-06T23:00:00.000-07:00

[ photo credits to www.surinpao.org ]

This Khmer ruin consists of 3 towers, only 2 of which remain now, lying on laterite platforms in North - South direction. The Fine Arts Department has laid down recovered pieces in the compound’s front yard, including the tower vertex, balusters and portal frame, etc. Bas - relief found in this ruin depicts legendary animal called makon, an amalgam of lion, elephant and fish, with five - headed serpent in its mouth. The bas - relief depicting serpents resemble that of the Angkor Wat, contrived in the 12 th century.

Tags : Prasat Yai Ngao/ancient ruin/sanctuary/Thailand

Prasat Wat Sa Kamphaeng Yai : Si Sa Ket

2009-09-06T21:33:00.000-07:00

[ Photo credits to www.hotelsguidethailand.com]

The sanctuary is Si Sa Ket's largest Khmer stone structure. There are 3 pagodas on the same base from north to south and facing west. The middle building is the main pagoda made of sandstone and some bricks.

The other 2 pagodas are made of bricks with some sand stone decorations such as a lintel and doorway frame. Behind the southern pagoda stands another brick pagoda and in front of there are 2 brick chapels surrounded by a crooked porch of laterite and sandstone. Doorway face all 4 directions. The main pagoda features a lintel of the god Indra god Naria lying on a pedestal over Naga. The pagoda of the south has another lintel of the gods Shiva and Uma seated.

Tags : Prasat Wat Sa Kamphaeng Yai/Si Sa Ket/Thailand/ancient ruin/Khmer sanctuary

Prang Chong Don Tuan : Si Sa Ket

2009-09-06T21:10:00.000-07:00

[ Photo credits to soathongchai.com ]

This is on a steep cliff in the Phanom Dong Rak mountain range near the Thai-Cambodian border, 8 kilometres from Ban Phumisaron or 38 kilometres from the district office. This small Khmer site has a square pagoda built of brick, a doorway of stone and a lion guarding the entrance.

Tags : Prang Chong Don Tuan/Si Sa Ket/Thailand/ancient ruin/Prang

Wat Phra That Rueang Rong : Si Sa Ket

2009-09-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

This temple is 8 kilometres away on the Si Sa Ket-Yang Chum Noi road. The site has a traditional design. The area is used for religious ceremonies and as a museum to display the life of Isan tribes such as Lao, Khmer, Suai, and Yoe.

Tags : Wat Phra That Rueang Rong/Si Sa Ket/Thailand/Thai temple

Wat Khao Kaeo : Saraburi

2009-09-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

[ Photo credits to tourismthailand ]

Wat Khao Kaeo Worawihan is situated in Ton Tan Sub-district, on the right side of the Pa Sak River, 6 kilometres from Sao Hai District Office. When King Rama IV visited Sao Hai District, he ordered the renovation of this temple and promoted it as a royal temple. There has been a rumor that there used to be a bright crystal ball over the Wihan of Wat Khao Kaeo on some nights. It is considered a miracle of the sacred object contained inside the Chedi. Inside the small 5-spired Chedi situated between the bell tower and the main chedi reside the adorned Buddha image, Buddha image in the Palelai (Palilayaka) posture, and the Lord Buddha’s footprint. All of these are beautiful.

Tags: Saraburi/Wat Khao Kaeo/thai temple/Thailand temple/Buddha image

Wat Protketchettharam : Samut Prakarn

2009-09-01T23:23:00.000-07:00

[ Photo credits to www.culture.go.th ]

Located at Tambon Song Kha Nong, this is the only Thai-Buddhism temple in Phra Pradaeng. Other temples are of the Mon-Buddhism sect. Phraya Phetphichai built it during the reign of King Rama II. A distinct and unique architectural characteristic of the temple is that its roof is covered with ancient Mon ceramic shingles, without any decorations on the temple roof. The front of the main building, Ubosot, above the entrance, is done with stucco adorned with vine lines and decorated with ancient porcelain and ceramic pieces. Inside, there is a cast-metal Buddha image in the attitude of Subduing Mara.

The second main building, Wiharn, has the same architecture as the first building. Inside the second main building, there is a reclining Buddha of which the face is very beautiful. Above the windows, there are the pictures of Dhamma Riddles of western arts style, which is extremely rare. Another building, Mondop, has a roof that is covered with ceramic shingles and decorated with small Chinese pavilions all around the edge of the roof. It enshrines Buddha images in many the attitudes and has chedis at all 4 corners. Inside the Mondop, there are Buddha images and the replication of Lord Buddha's Footprint, decorated with pearl inset.

Tags : Samut Prakarn /Wat Protketchettharam /thai temple /buddhist temple /Thailand Temple

Wat Yai Suwannaram : Phetchaburi

2009-09-01T22:54:00.000-07:00

[ Photo credits to www.thai-tour.com ]

This is another important temple in the town, situated 1 km. east of the city hall. The main shrine hall has no windows. It contains 300-year-old mural paintings of mythical angels. The multi-purpose hall (Sala Kanprian), once located in Ayutthaya's Grand Palace, was entirely built of teak wood and decorated with fine carving work especially at the door panels. The hall also houses a preaching throne with intricate wood carvings and gold gilt works of Bangkok design.

Tags: Wat Yai Suwannaram/Phetchaburi/Temple/Thailand temple/ancient temple

Wat Sa Bor Kaew : Phrae

2009-09-01T22:07:00.000-07:00

Located on NamKhu Road next to the city moats is Wat Sa Bo Kaeo. This temple has an exotic and beautiful pagoda. The marble Buddha image is also in Burmese style. It is a very splendid temple. It is also where Burmese monks who travel to Thailand to study the Buddhist scripture stay.

Tags: Phrae/Wat Sa Bor Kaew/thai temple/Thailand temple/Burmese style

Wat Phra That Cho Hae : Phrae

2009-09-01T21:40:00.000-07:00

Wat Phra That Cho Hae is the most famous temple in Phrae. This temple is about 8 kilometres to the east of town on Highway No. 1022. A major religious site of the province, it was built since the time of Sukhothai. The 33 metre-tall Chiang Saen-style Chedi houses a Holy Relic. It was built of bricks and covered with bright brass sheets. The name of the temple refers to fine silk woven in Sip Song Panna (in southern China) which was first used to wrap around the Chedi when the temple was first constructed. There is a fair celebrating the Chedi in March every year.

Tags: Phrae/Wat Phra That Cho Hae/thai temple/Thailand temple/temple

Wat Nong Daeng : Nan

2009-08-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

[ Photo credits to www.nan.go.th]

Wat Nong Daeng in Puea sub-district was constructed in 1787 by the Thai Lue and Thai Phuan people. The main Buddha image was cast by Khruba Sitthikan. The first renovation of the assembly hall was done in 1949 and again later in 1995. It was completed in 1996. Within the compound of the temple is a large shady terrace. The Chofa – gable finial decoration of a Buddhist temple’s roof – is engraved into the sculpture of Nok Hatsadiling (Hastilinga) – a mythical bird in the literature whose tip of the beak is an elephant’s trunk. The Thai Lue people believe that it is a high-ranked animal from heaven. At the same time, the eaves boards are embellished with wooden fretwork, the unique ones of the Thai Lue people. The Buddha image is enshrined on the Chukkachi base – a masonry base of intertwined Nagas, called Naga Throne. It has been believed that the Naga is a symbol of gracefulness, goodness, and a protector of Buddhism. Wat Nong Daeng was granted the Award of Outstanding Performance in the category of Cultural Attraction in Northern Thailand in the 5th Thailand Tourism Awards 2004.

Tags: Wat Nong Daeng/Nan/Naga/thai temple/Thailand temple

Wat Phaya Wat : Nan

2009-08-30T21:48:00.000-07:00

[ photo credits to www.nan.go.th]

This temple is located just before reaching the town on Highway No. 101. An ancient religious site, it has rectangular Chedi bases on which Buddha states are placed around the Chedi structure. Combined artistic influences of Lanna, Lan Chang and native Nan can be detected.

Tags: Wat Phaya Wat/Nan/temple/thai temple/Thailand temple

Wat Pa Fang : Lampang

2009-08-30T20:43:00.000-07:00

[ Photo credits to www.thai-tour.com ]

Built during the reign of King Rama IV by Burmese, Wat Pa Fang is located on Sanam Bin Road. It has a large, glittering gold Chedi containing a Holy Relic brought over from Myanmar around 1906. The extensive Sala Kan Parian (preaching hall) is made entirely of wood with Burmese-style overlapping roofs. A small Ubosot has a Burmese-style woodwork over its roof with beautiful plaster designs over its doors. Usually there are a considerable number of Burmese monks in residence

Tags : Wat Pa Fang /Lampang /thai temple /Thailand Temple /Wat

Prasat Pueai Noi : Khon Kaen

2009-08-30T20:12:00.000-07:00

Prasat Pueai Noi is the largest Khmer sanctuary in the upper Northeast. The compound comprises 3 brick buildings built on the same laterite base. All face to the east. Each pagoda has a sandstone lintel with designs. Each pagoda has a smaller chapel and a lintel with clear, lovely designs. A laterite wall surrounds the compound and there is a pool just beyond it. From Khon Kaen, take Highway No. 2 for 44 kilometres to Ban Phai, then take Highway No. 23 for 11 kilometres to Borabu district, then take a right-hand road for 24 kilometres to Ku Pueai Noi.

Tags: Prasat Pueai Noi/Khon Kaen/Khmer sanctuary/Thailand

Phrathat Kham Kaen : Khon Kaen

2009-08-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

This is a 19-metre stupa at Wat Chetiyaphum, Amphoe Nam Phong, about 26 km. northeast of Khon Kaen. According to legend, King Moriya, a ruler of Cambodia, ordered revered monks to carry the Lord Buddha’s ashes to be enshrined in Phrathat Phanom of Nakhon Phanom Province. On their way stood a dead tamarind tree, the sun was setting, they settled for the night there. In the morning, the monks continued their journey. Unfortunately, when they arrived, Phrathat Phanom had already been built, so they decided to head home. Once again passing the tamarind tree, but this time tree stood vivaciously alive, sprouting its branches and leaves as if to convey that the ashes should be situated here. Therefore, the monks advised the local villagers to build a stupa on the spot, which was obviously sacred.

source: www.kku.ac.th

Tags: stupa/Khon Kaen/Phrathat Kham Kaen/Phrathat Phanom/thai temple/Thailand

Wat Phra Kaeo : Chainat

2009-08-19T07:25:00.000-07:00

Situated at Mu 10, Tambon Phraek Si Racha, which is about 23 kilometres off the provincial town of Chai Nat, Wat Phra Kaeo is another ancient temple housing a beautiful square-based stupa. Within the temple ground also houses a high stupa in a harmonious blend of the Lawo and late Dvaravati styles, as well as a relic chamber with a recessed base in the Sukhothai and Sri Vijaya styles. In front of the stupa stands a Buddha image hall known as Wihan Luangpho Chai, where a delicately carved sandstone lintel was found at the back of the image. This lintel depicts an image of the God Indra riding the elephant named Erawan inside a stylized shelter in a distinctive Khmer style, which dates back to more than 1,000 years ago. It is believed that at the decline of the Khmer empire, someone must have taken this artefact from somewhere and carved the Buddha image out of it. However, the head of the elephant is overturned, its trunk pointing upward, as a riddle that in order to be enlightened like the Lord Buddha “one must overcome greed, hatred, and ignorance to find true happiness.”

Tags: Wat Phra Kaeo/Chainat/Thai temple/Dvaravati/Thailand temple/ancient temple

Prang Ku Suan Taeng : Buriram

2009-08-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

This khmer sanctuary at Ban Don Wai can be reached by using the Buriram-Phayakkhaphum Phisai road (Highway No. 219) for 70 kilometres, then left onto Highway No. 202 to Prathai for about 40 kilometres where there is a left-hand road to Ku Suan Taeng. This is another Khmer site with 3 brick pagodas on a single laterite base. The famous Narai Banthom Sin lintel was discovered here and is now kept in the National Museum in Bangkok. The lintel proves this site dates from the 17th Buddhist century.

Tags : Prang Ku Suan Taeng/Buriram/Thailand/khmer sanctuary/ancient ruins

Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong : Chiang Rai

2009-08-18T08:41:00.000-07:00

It is located on Doi Chom Thong on the bank of the Kok River within town area, contains what is believed to be the oldest Holy Relic even before King Mengrai built Chiang Rai. The Chedi containing the Holy Relic was probably renovated at the same time the town was being built. A major religious site in Chiang Rai was from here that King Mengrai spotted the strategic location on which to establish the town.

Tags: Chiangrai/Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong/thai temple/Thailand temple/temple

Wat Mahathat : Phetchabun

2009-07-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit to www.thai-tour.com ]

Situated in Muang Phetchabun municipality. This monastery is an ancient temple which H.R.H. Prince Damrong presumed that this monastery might be constructed during Sukhothai period. Wat Mahathat has the important objects of worship such as,
Phum Khao Binth styled pagoda has been presumed that it might be constructed about B.E. 1926 (1383). This pagoda is a place that comprises Buddha's relics, Orrahan's (saint) ashes, and small images of Buddha in several styles. Two buddha images of the U-Thong period whose laps are 36 inches wide. One is housed in the main chapel and the other is housed in the vihara of Wat Mahathat.

Tags: Phetchabun/Wat Mahathat/thai temple/Thailand/buddha images/buddhist temple

Si Thep Historical Park : Phetchabun

2009-07-12T07:42:00.000-07:00

Some 130 kilometres south of Phetchabun on Highway No. 21, and with another 9 kilometres after a left turn, is the Si Thep Historical Park. Si Thep is an ancient town where many architectural structures still remain indicative of its past prosperity during the 11th-18th Buddhist Centuries. It was once the centre of contact between the Dvaravati kingdom in the Central Plain basin and the Khmer kingdom in the Northeast. A twin-city, there were over one hundred ancient sites all built with bricks and laterite, most of which have crumbled. There are also remains of several ponds spread out all over the area. Most of the ancient relics recovered are parts of architectural nature such as elaborate lintels, plastered designs and Sema stone (used to mark out limits of Buddhist temples) and human skeletons still adorned with ornamental pieces.

The admission fee is 100 baht.

Tags: Phetchabun/Si Thep Historical Park/Thailand/ancient town/Dvaravati

The Old City Park : Phichit

2009-07-12T07:22:00.000-07:00

[photo: sanook.com]

It is located on Phichit - Wang Chik Road, about 8 kms. From Phichit township. It is believed that thes area used to be the old Phichit town approximatedly 900 years ago. In the park, there is an arboretum, a peaceful reloxing place for local people. In addition, there are Ko Si Mala, Tham Chalawan and sculptures of important features from a Thai literatur "Kraithong"

Tags : The Old City Park /Phichit/Thailand

Wat Khao Rup Chang : Phichit

2009-07-12T07:08:00.000-07:00

Wat Khao Rup Chang is located along the Phichit-Taphan Hin road some 15 kilometres from town. On the hilltop is an old, Ayutthaya-style Chedi built of bricks but with its top part now broken. There is also a Mondop, the wall murals of which have largely faded away. The Mondop house a bronze Holy Relic.

Tags : Wat Khao Rup Chang /Phichit /thai temple /Thailand Temple /temple

Phra Ram Ratchaniwet Palace : Phetchaburi

2009-07-03T22:12:00.000-07:00

[Photo Source: kanchanapisek.or.th]

Phra Ram Ratchaniwet (Ban Puen Palace) is a palace which King Chulalongkorn graciously built Ban Puen in 1910. Local people usually call it "Wang Ban Puen". The building shows the glamour of the Western architect and interior designer. At present, the palace is under the supervision of the Army campus of Phetchaburi province. Open daily during office hours.
This palace, originally called Ban Puen Palace, was located at Tambon Ban Mo Amphoe Muang Changwat Phetchaburi. King ChulachomWao, Rama V, desired to have it built as a rainy season palace with his own money. The plot of land was bought from a villager and the design was made by a German, Mr.Karl Deurring. Admiral HRH Prince Boriphat of Nakhonsawan and HRH Prince Damrong were assigned to monitor the construction. The palace is of European design and construc-tion began in 1909 and completed in 1916. The palace was named during the reign of King Rama Vl as Son Phetch Prasat Palace. The name was changed to be Phraram Ratchaniwet in the year 1918 when it was used as a palace to welcome and accommodate state visitors.

During the reign of King Rama VII the place was utilized, by the royal command, as Boy Scout Commanding School, Agricultural Teacher Training College, Tambon Public School, etc. In the year 1986, the Royal Thai Army requested the cooperation of the Fine Arts Department to renovate the palace spending the budget of the Fine Arts Department to the amount of 2.8 million baht and the budget of the Royal Thai Army to the amount of 8.3 million baht. The renovation was completed in the year 1987. It is expected that this palace will be used as the Phetchaburi National Museum.

source: http://www.geocities.com/RainForest

Tags : Phra Ram Ratchaniwet /Phetchaburi /Ban Puen Palace /palace /Thailand

Phra That Satcha : Loei

2009-04-19T02:52:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit to www.thai-tour.com ]

Phra That Satcha is located in the area of Wat Lat Pu, Ban Tha Li. on the Highway 201, turn left at the junction to the Highway 2115 Tha Li - Ahi route. The Wat is 2 kilometers from Amphoe Tha Li Administrative Office. the architectural structure of Phra That Satcha consists of the blossomed lotuses with 3 layered petals, one meter high sprung around pagoda. The Phra That, similar in style to Phra That Phanom, is 33 meters high and topped with the white 7 tiered umbrella of sovereignty.

Tags:Phra That Satcha /Loei/Thailand /Wat Lat Pu

Phra That Si Song Rak : Loei

2009-04-19T02:18:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit to www.thai-tour.com]

Phra That Si Song Rak is located on the Phra That Si Song Rak bank of Man River about one kilometer away from Amphoe Dan Sai. Constructed in 1560, it commemorates the mutual cooperation between Krung Sri Ayutthaya and Krung Sri Satana Kanahut (Vientiane). The structure is about 30 meters high and its annual celebrations are attended by thousands of people.

Tips for visitors: As the pagoda is built for friendship and peace, red attire and red flowers are prohibited as the color denotes violence.

Tags:Phra That Si Song Rak /Loei/Thailand /Phra That

Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaeo: Si Sa Ket

2009-04-19T01:53:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit to recmert.kku.ac.th]

Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaeo or Wat Lan Khuat is located in the municipality region, the Buddhist temple is remarkable with architectures made from million of colourful glass bottles donated by the people. All the architecture is beautiful, particularly the pavilion called ‘Sala Thansamo Maha Chedi Kaeo’ Ubosoth located mid of the pond. The ubosoth houses a very beautiful white jade Buddha image.

Tags : Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaeo /Si Sa Ket/Thailand /Thai temple

Prasat Khao Noi : Sa kaeo

2009-04-19T00:37:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit to www.sakaeo.go.th ]

This Prasat is situated in Wat Khao Noi See Chompoo, Tambon Khlong Nam Sai, which is 12 kilometres to the south of the city. This ancient venue is on the 80 metre hill. With the stairs of 254 steps, this site is composed of three towers (prang). However, only the central one has been remained. It has been registered in year 1935 by the Department of Fine Arts as the national ancient site. Some sandstone lintels and statues were found, and they are now displayed at the Prachin Buri National Museum.

Tags : Prasat Khao Noi /ancient ruins/sanctuary /Thailand

Prasat Hin Ban Phuluang : Surin

2009-04-07T03:17:00.000-07:00

[ photo credits to www.surinpao.org ]

Prasat Hin Ban Phuluang is a Hindu sanctuary of Baphuon Period dating back to the 16 th-17th century B.E. between the reigns of Jayavarman I and Jayavarman VI of the ancient Khmer Kindgon. A small sandstone Prang on laterite base, Prasat Hin Ban Phuluang was built and sculpted with fine craftsmanship. The pediment above the entrance depicts a scene of Krishna lifting Govardhana Mountain from the Hindu Story 'Krishnavatar', and incarnation of the God Vishnu. The God Indra on elephant back centers the stone lintel. There is a pond on either side of the walkway to the entrance.

Prasat Hin Ban Phluang is situated at Ban Phluang, Tambon Kang Aen, Amphoe Prasat, 4 kilometers from the Town Hall along the Surin Prasat Chong Chom route with a left turn between kilometer markers 34-35 for another 900 meters.

Tags : Prasat Hin Ban Phuluang /ancient ruins/sanctuary /Thailand

Wat Rajathiwas : Bangkok

2009-04-07T02:25:00.000-07:00

Wat Rajathiwas Rajaworavihara is situated on bank of Chao Phraya River, near Tha Wasukri Pier, Samsen. When he was a monk King Rama IV, resided at this temple. It was there that the Dhammayutika sect was born. It is believed to be an ancient temple built before the Ayutthaya Period, and was originally called Wat Samorrai. King Rama V Believed that the word "Samor" was derived from the Khmer word "Thamor", meaning stone. Therefor the temples name meant Wat Silarai. King Rama IV gave the temple its present name of Wat Rajathiwas vihara. The temple is cool and shady as befitting its history as a forest retreat.

In the Fifth Reign the phra ubosot, which has been constructed in the early Rattanakosin Period, was in poor condition. King Rama V therefor ordered Prince Narissaranuwattiwong to reconstruct the phra ubosot but retain the original walls because of the significance of the building in the history of the Dhammayutika sect. The murals were done using the European fresco technique and depicted the story of Phra Vessandara, the Buddha's tenth reincarnation. Prince Narissaranuwattiwong prepared the drafts and Rigole, an Italian artist who painted the ceiling in the dome of the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, executed the frescoes.

The sala karn prian, or sermon hall, situated in the front of the temple is constructed entirely of teak and can accommodate up to 1,000 people. Prince Narissaranuwattiwong modelled it on a hall at Wat Suwannaram in Phetchaburi Province.
source: dhammathai.org

Tags : Wat Rajathiwas /Bangkok/Thailand Temple /Thai temple

Wat Thipphayaratnimit : Udon Thani

2009-04-05T08:12:00.000-07:00

Wat Thipphayaratnimit is located on Naresuan Road, Tambon Mak Khaeng, off the main road into Soi San Chao Mae Thapthim and opposite to a polytechnic school. It is another forest temple in the area of Amphoe Mueang and has a pleasant shady atmosphere. There is a large pagoda which contains Lord Buddha’s relics. The pagoda is shaped like “Thanan,” a utensil used in ancient times to scoop Lord Buddha’s relics. A portrait of Luang Pu Thira Chitthammo, the present abbot, is displayed with basic living utensils for Buddhist monks in the pavilion. On the fourteenth waxing moon day of the twelfth lunar month, Thot Kathin (robe offering ceremony) and merit making to celebrate the abbot’s birthday anniversary are held every year.

Tags : Wat Thipphayaratnimit /Udon Thani/Thailand /Thai temple

Wat Ratchakhiri Hiranyaram : Phitsanulok

2009-04-04T00:57:00.000-07:00

Guan Yin statue

[Photo credit to www.mots.go.th]

Wat Ratchakhiri Hiranyaram Located on Khao Samo Khlaeng, Ban Samo Khlaeng, approximately 14 kilometres from Phitsanulok on Highway 12 and 3 kilometres before reaching Amphoe Wang Thong. The hilltop temple houses two Buddha’s footprints, one is a replica and the other is on the face of a western cliff. A celebration is held annually in February. The temple also houses a thousand-handed Guan Yin statue, three tons in weight, from Hangzhou, China, which was carved out of white jade and sent here in 1992. On the mountain, there is a pond that never runs dry since ancient time. Uphill from the Guan Yin statue, there is a shrine of Heng Jia, the monkey hero, which is frequented by Thai Chinese visitors. The topmost viewpoint of the mountain is the location of Phra Mahathat Chedi Si Bowon Chinarat where the Buddha’s forehead bone relic is enshrined. The Chedi has a lotus-shaped spire, with a walking Buddha image on each side of its square base.

Tags : Wat Ratchakhiri Hiranyaram /Phitsanulok/Thailand /Guan Yin

Wat Pho Sila : Amnat Charoen

2009-04-02T04:25:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit to: thai-tour.com]

Wat Pho Sila is situated at Ban Pueai Hua Dong, Tambon Pueai. The temple houses interesting antique, big white sandstone Sema leaves from Dvaravati period which can be dated back to 1,000 years ago.

Built during 7th-8th Century in Khmer style, the sandstone Sema has sharp end, board leave and narrow base carved in lotus shape. Above the carved lotus is pattern of stupa, water pot and bell. Core of the stone leaves are carved with three-ended leave carrying 3 half flowers in three rings lying next to others. Its crest is carved like a flag decorated with lotus’s petal-pattern ornament.

Base of the stone leaves is influenced by lotus’s petal pattern from altar of Buddha image or Dhamma Wheel from Dvaravati found in Central Thailand. Half flowers carved in three connecting rings carry the same pattern found in half flowers found in the arc, of which angels are sitting with hands pressing together towards the mid of lintel which was found at eastern gate of Norhtern stupa, Khao Noi Si Chomphu Khmer Ruins, Amphoe Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo Province.

Tags: Buddha Image/Wat Pho Sila/thai temple/Amnat Charoen/Wat Thai

Wat Tha Fa Tai : Phayao

2009-04-02T04:07:00.000-07:00

Wat Tha Fa Tai is at Mu 11, Ban Fa Si Thong, Sa Sub-district, on the Pong – Chiang Muan Route. It was constructed in 1768 by Khru Thammasena and Phothao Saen-atthi, the leaders of the Thai Lue people who immigrated from Xishuangbanna, People’s Republic of China. The ubosot is low and made of bricks and cement. Its 3-tiered roof is covered with “Paen Klet” or the Thai Lue wooden shingles.

The main Buddha image was engraved of Burma padauk wood in the subduing Mara posture, with a width at its lap of 117.5 centimetres and a height of 227.5 centimetres. It was taken from Xishuangbanna and enshrined on a rectangular Chukkachi base with redented corners, presenting the Thai Lue style of art. The base was decorated with stucco reliefs of vines with black lacquer applied, as well as, covered with gold sheets and adorned with colourful mirrors.

Moreover, there is a sermon pulpit whose characteristic is similar to a mondop or prasat with a square base with 20 redented corners, decorated with stucco reliefs of vines and various kinds of animals such as deer, elephants, horses, and peacocks. The distinctive characteristic is the reflecting floral designs inlaid with colourful mirrors. The wihan is low and reflects the Thai Lue style of art made of bricks and cement. Its 3-tiered roof is covered with wooden shingles. The 1st tier is a hip roof, covering the 4 sides of the wihan, while the 2nd and 3rd tiers are in the Prasat style with gables and eaves on the East and West.

Tags : Wat Tha Fa Tai /Phayao/Thailand /Thai temple

Wat Kanlayanamit : Bangkok

2009-04-02T03:35:00.000-07:00

Phra Trairattananayok

This royal temple stands at the mouth of Bangkok Yai Canal on the southern bank. Chao Phraya Nikornbodin (To) donated land to erect this temple in A.D. 1765. Later he presented it to the King. King Rama III named it "Wat Kanlayanamit" and built Wihan which houses a large seated Buddha image named "Phra Trairattananayok" similar to the large Buddha image outside the walls of Ayutthya at Wat Phananchoeng.

King Rama IV built the library near the landing of Krom Somdej Phra Sri Sudarakse in A.D. 1865.

During the reign of King Rama V there was a renovation of this temple by Chao Phraya Rattanabodin (Rod) who was the son of Chao Phraya Nikornbodin.
[source: http://www.geocities.com/rainforest/7153]

Tags : Wat Kanlayanamit /Bangkok/Thailand Temple /Thai temple

Wat Wichian Bamrung : Phetchabun

2009-03-16T09:31:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit to: thai-tour.com]

Wat Wichian Bamrung is located at Tha Rong Sub-district, near the Wichian Buri District Office by taking Highway No. 21 (Lom Sak – Saraburi Route). Within the compound of the temple is enshrined the biggest Wichian Buri Rattana Mingmongkhon Reclining Buddha Image of the province, with a length of 50 metres and height of 5 metres. The image lies outdoors facing towards the east. It was cast of cement and painted in gold. The image contains the relics of the Lord Buddha’s collarbone. Moreover, this temple is a location of the statues of King Naresuan the Great, Phra Suphan Kanlaya – his sister, and King Ekathotsarot – his brother. Besides, there is a Ruea Mat – a dredger with top cover, which was an engraving piece of a large timber tree dating to the Ayutthaya Kingdom with special characteristics. It was discovered in the Pa Sak River.

Tags: Phetchabun/Wat Wichian Bamrung/thai temple/Thailand temple/temple/Reclining Buddha

Wat Phra Sing : Chiangrai

2009-03-12T07:24:00.000-07:00

Wat Phra Sing. Built around 1385 in the reign of Prince Haha Phrom (brother of Prince Kuena of Chiang Mai) who ruled Chiang Rai from 1345 to 1400, this temple once housed Phra Phuttasihing (now is in Chiang Mai).

The temple is also well-known reflects a traditional architectural style, with wooden portals beautifully carved into a delicate pattern showing the interplay of earth, water, wind and fire, by the hand of local Chiang Rai craftsmen. The pattern was designed by one of Thailand's renowned artists,, Thaiwan Datchani.The temple itself housed a 5" by 24" replica of Buddha's footprint believed to be carved in the reigh of Phraya Mang Rai, with an inscription in the ancient Khmer alphabet which reads "Kusala Thumma (Dhamma), Akusala Thamma (Dhamma)" , to remind people of the Dhama which instigates good deeds and refrains from undesirable deeds.

Tags: Chiangrai/Wat Phra Sing/thai temple/Thailand temple/temple/buddhist temple

Phra That Phu Phek : Sakon Nakhon

2009-03-06T06:19:00.000-08:00

Phra That Phu Phek is on a mountain in Tambon Na Hua Bo. To get there, take the Sakon Nakhon-Udon Thani road for 22 kilometres and take a road on the left for 14 kilometres, then ascend 491 steps. The laterite pagoda is on a square base. Seemingly unfinished because it has no roof or pagoda top, it was built in the 16th-17th Buddhist century.

Moreover, this Khmer Ruins is special as it houses solar calendar, cube-shape rock, in its stupa. The ancient people used it for indicating position of the sun to indicate date for religious rites and agricultural seasons.

Tags:Phra That Phu Phek /Khmer Ruins/Sakon Nakhon /Phra That

Phra That Narai Cheng Weng sanctuary : Sakon Nakhon

2009-03-04T05:51:00.000-08:00

Phra That Narai Cheng Weng sanctuary is 5 kilometers from town on the way to Udon Thani. The sandstone pagoda is on a late rite base. Ornate designs adorn the lintel, doorway and windows. It is believed the site was entirely constructed by women who competed with the men who built Phra That Phu Phek. It dates from the 16th-17th Buddhist century.

Tags: Phra That Narai Cheng Weng /sanctuary/Sakon Nakhon /Phra That

Wat Luang : Phrae

2009-01-02T00:18:00.000-08:00

[ photo credit: thai-tour.com]

Wat Luang on Kham Lue Road in town is an ancient and principal temple built at the same time Phrae was established. Several restoration works have taken place. Some of its major features include the Vihan and Chiang Saen-style Chedi enshrining a Holy Relic brought over from Myanmar. Others are the museum housing various antiquities including several 500-year-old Buddha statues and an ancient Lanna-style wooden structure.

Tags: Phrae/Wat Luang/thai temple/Thailand temple/temple/buddhist temple

Wat Chom Sawan : Phrae

2008-12-31T00:35:00.000-08:00

Just one kilometre from the townhall on Yantrakit Koson Road is Wat Chom Sawan, a Burmese architectural style temple. The building which combines the hall for conducting religious rituals and monk's living quarters is beautifully decorated both in its interiors and exteriors.

The over-lapping roofs are adorned with fine fretworks. Antiquities found here include marble Buddha statues, statues made of woven bamboos coated with lacquer, and Buddha statues made from ivory, as well as ivory scripture slabs with Burmese scripts.

Tags: Phrae/Wat Chom Sawan/thai temple/Thailand temple/temple/Wat

Wat Thepthidaram : Bangkok

2008-12-28T05:00:00.000-08:00

Wat Thepthidaram was built by King Rama III in 1836 for his daughter, Princess Kroma Muen Apsomsudathep. It was originally called ""Wat Ban Phrayakrai Suanluang".

Located on Mahachai Road, the temple was built with a mixture of Chinese architectural styles. Sunthon Phu, one of Thailand’s greatest poets, had resided in this temple during his monkshood from 1840 - 1842.

tags : Wat Thepthidaram /Bangkok/Thailand Temple /Thai temple

Wat Phra Kaeo : KamphaengPhet Province

2008-07-13T00:19:00.000-07:00

Wat Phra Kaeo is a large royal temple in town centre near a site believed to have been a palace. The temple itself was used on important city events and had no monks in residence. Major features include the principal Chedi with lion-adorned base and a round Chedi with elephant-adorned base. There are also other Chedis of different bases and remains of several chapels. Its boundary is marked off by laterite walls.

[article & photo credit to :www.thai-tour.com]

tags : Wat Phra Kaeo /KamphaengPhet /Thailand /temple

Khao Kradong Park : Buriram

2008-05-23T20:33:00.000-07:00

[ Phra Suphattharabophit ]

This forest park is 6 kilometres from the city on the Buriram-Prakhon Chai road (Highway No. 219). Khao Kradong is an extinct volcano that is 265 meters high. The summit of the mountain has a pool which is believed to be the mouth of the volcano. Around the area are several plant species worth studying and Phra Suphattharabophit, an important Buddha image of the province.

tags : Khao Kradong Park /Buriram/Thailand /Buddha image

Wat Rajapradit : Bangkok

2008-05-03T00:20:00.000-07:00

Wat Rajapradit is situated next to Saranrom Park closed to Khlong Ku Muang Derm Road, on the opposite side of the canal from Wat Rajabopit. King Rama IV ordered the construction of Wat Rajapradit Sathitmahasimaram in 1864 as the first temple of Dhammayutika sect. The phra vihara luang is constructed on a high base and is beautifully decorated. In the temple there are eight stone pillars, each surmounted by a carving of the Buddhist Wheel of Law (Dhammachak), one for each of the eight directions, hence the name "Mahasimaram".

During the construction of the phra vihara luang, which is the phra ubosot, it was found that the ground was rather low and the earth soft. If earth and sand were used as landfill the ground would still continue to subside. King Rama IV therefore ordered that broken garlic jars be used as landfill because the jars was especially strong.

In the phra vihara luang, there are murals depicting the royal ceremonies of the twelve months, including the Giant Swing Ceremony, Songkran, Visakha Puja as well as a picture of King Rama IV using as a telescope for his astronomical studies. On one side of the phra vihara luang there is a standing statue of King Rama IV and nearby there is a statue of the Supreme Patriarch (Sa) in a chedi covered with marble tiles.

photo and article credit to dhammathai.org

tags : Wat Rajapradit /Bangkok/Thailand Temple /Thai temple

Bangkok Songkran Festival

2008-04-12T06:28:00.000-07:00

Date: 12 – 15 April 2008

Venue: at 9 royal temples and around Rattanakosin Island

Hi-Light:

Songkran Celebration of the 4 Regions (southern section of Sanam Luang near Wat Phra Kaeo)
Bathing of Buddha images from the 4 regions, local food and dessert making demonstrations, and cultural shows from various regions.
Open Ceremony on 12th April 2008 18.00-21.00 hrs. at Wat Arun
Paying worship at 9 royal temples around Rattanakosin Island. On 12-15 April 2008 09.00-18.00 hrs. :
Wat Phra Sri Rattanasasadaram (Wat Phra Kaeo)
Wat Chetaphon (Wat Pho)
Wat Suthat
Wat Saket
Wat Bowonniwet
Wat Chanasongkram
Wat Rakung
Wat Arun (Wat Chaeng), and Wat Kalayanamitr
Fun-filled splashing in traditional Thai dress, Khao San Road with various forms of Songkran fun, on 4-15 April 2008 at 17.00-18.00 hrs.
Banglamphu community at Santi Chaiprakarn Park, Phra Athit Road and Wisut Kasat., on 12-13 April 2008

Further Information : Events Planning Division, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Tel. 02 250 5500 ext. 3470. TAT Call Center 1672

source: www.songkran.net

tags : Songkran Festival /Songkran/Khao San Road /ฺBangkok

History of The Songkran Festival

2008-04-12T05:47:00.000-07:00

Deriving from the Sansakrit language, the word “Songkran“ means to pass or to move into. In this context, the meaning implies to the passing and the moving of the sun, the moon and the other planets into one of the zodiacal orbit. And the Grand Songkran Festival which falls on the Aries indicates the new era of the Thai New Year. Owing to the ancient Indian belief, the Grand Songkran Festival is most appropriate to be the Thai New Year due to the timing of the best season which is known as the spring of India which comes right after the cold season of winter. Also, there are other aspects supporting this belief such as the blooming flowers, the fresh atmosphere of the nature and the livelihood of all the living creatures.

With the great influence from the Indians, the Songkran Festival portrays the typical ways of life of the Thais which involve the agricultural aspects. Free from their regular routine work, the Thai citizens will find time to perform their annual rites of showing respect to their ancestors. The highlight of the festival will include the younger Thais paying respect to their elders by sprinkling their hands with scented water. And in order to welcome the New Year, the celebration will include the delighted colourful local entertainment which, in fact, suitably unite the mutual relationship between members of the family, the society, the nature and surrounding. Therefore, this Songkran Festival has proved to be the most important and grandest festival of the year. Moreover, our neighbouring countries such as Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos have also organised this type of festival.

Since the old days during the Sukhothai period, the Songkran Festival had been practised both in the royal court palace and among the ordinary citizens. However, the size of the celebration had not been as elaborated as of today. Back in those days, civil servants and other government officials would pay homage to the king, and would drink the oath of allegiance to the king or the government, while the king would provide annual salary to all officials. Later on in Ayutthaya period, the festival had been expanded by including the bathing of the Buddha image. Also, the festivities would include the forming of sand pagodas and entertaining celebrations. In the Rattanakosin period, the rituals had been conducted in the similar pattern as those during the Ayutthaya period.

history source : www.songkran.net

tags : Songkran Festival /Songkran/Thailand Festival /Thai New Year

Wat Phra Mahathat : Nakhon Si Thamarat Province

2008-03-22T22:42:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit : dhammathai.org ]

Wat Phra Mahathat is the most important temple of Nakhon Si Thammarat. This is originally an old monastery of Nakhon Si Thamarat, situated in the heart of the city. It is believed to be constructed during Sivichaya period in compliance with the idea of Mahayana Buddhism School. An extensive complex is centred on the 77-metre pagoda houses Buddha relics brought from Sri Lanka some 1,700 years ago.

The pagoda, 55.78 meters high, has a distinctive Sri Lankan style. The top is entirely covered by pure gold. Inside the temple are many buildings of importance, especially the royal building which has beautiful architecture from the Ayutthaya period and the Sam Chom building where the Buddha image attired in royal wardrobe Phra Si Thamma Sokarat is housed. There are also the Phra Maha Phinetkrom (the equestrian image) building, the Thap Kaset building, while the Khian and Pho Lanka buildings are used to display artifacts donated to the temple by Buddhists.

Besides, there are a lot of other important archaeological places such as Vihara Luang, Vihara Khien, Vihara Khot, Vihara Pho Lanka, museum, etc.

tags : Wat Phra Mahathat /Nakhon Si Thamarat /Thailand Temple /Thai temple

Prasat Sikhoraphum : Surin Province

2008-03-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

Si Khoraphum khmer sanctuary located at Tambon Ra Ngaeng, Amphoe Sikhoraphum, 34 kilometers from the provincial town along the Surin Sikhoraphum route with a left turn of 800 meters at Amphoe Prasat.

The Prasat Sikhoraphum is composed of 5 prang (pagoda), with the principal structure measuring 32 meters high. Beautiful designs are engraved onto the columns. It is believed that the site had been renovated once during the Ayutthaya Period.This site was built around the 17th Buddhist century.

Prasart Sikhoraphum is opened every day from 07.30 A.M. - 06.00 P.M. Admission fee is 30 Baht.

tags : Prasat Sikhoraphum /ancient ruins/khmer sanctuary /Thai

Wat Chalong : Phuket Province

2008-03-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit to wadthai.info ]

Wat Chalong is Phuket’s most important Buddhist temple and is the biggest and most ornate of Phuket’s 29 Buddhist monasteries.This is where stands the cast statue of Luang Por Cham,who helped the people of Phuket put down the Angyee, or Chinese Coolie, Rebellion in 1876 during the reign of Rama V.

There are also statues of Luang Por Chaung, and Luang Por Gluam. Other monks, who
were abbots of the temple during later times, and who are the objects of respect and recipients of the
offerings by Phuket people generally.

Wat Chalong, was built in 1837.The architecture is typical of Wats found throughout Thailand.A recent addition to the temple is a 61.4-meter high chedi containing the Phra Borom Sareerikatat relic, a piece of the Lord Buddha's bones brought over from Sri Lanka.The chedi is a mixture of southern, central and northeastern architectural styles and is the first in this region to house the holy Buddha's relic.

How to get there. :
Wat Chalong is about 8 kms. outside town. Take Vichit Songkram Rd., to the Bypass Rd., and turn left, and drive for about 10 mins. Wat Chalong will be on your left

Related tags : Wat Chalong /Phuket/Thailand Temple /Thai temple

Wat Chang Lom : Sukhothai Province

2008-03-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

Wat Chang Lom is located to the north of Chotwithithong Road with a bell-shaped chedi of Ceylonese influence standing as the center. The chedi is situated on a 3-tiered square base on which a platform decorated with a row of elephants seen by their front halves supporting the round chedi.
This type of elephant-decorated chedi is to be seen in many ancient towns of Sukhothai period, for example, Kamphaeng Phet and Si Satchanalai.

[ photo source : www.info.ru.ac.th ]

Related tags : Sukhothai /Wat Chang Lom/Thailand Temple /Thai temple

Beautiful Buddha image of Wat Si Chum : Sukhothai Province

2008-03-12T00:09:00.000-07:00

The Buddha image of Wat Si Chum ( Phra Achana )

[ photo credit to : traveleradvisor ]

Wat Si Chum
This lies about 1,500 meters north of Wat Mahathat and was originally surrounded by a moat. A square mondop is the main sanctuary and contains a monumental stucco-over-brick Buddha image in the attitude Subduing Mara, called "Phra Achana". This Buddha measures 11.30 meters from knee to knee.

The mondop is 32 meters square and 15 meters high, and the walls are 3 meters thick. There is a passageway in the left inner wall itself which leads to the above crossbeam. On the ceiling of the passageway are more than fifty engraved slate slabs illustrating Jataka scenes.

At Wat Si Chum there is a mondop that houses a large stucco image of the Buddha in the Marnvichai position, as described in the first stone inscription. A tunnel has been made leading to the temple's south wall, where there is a stariway to the roof. Over the ceiling are 20 stone pillars, with inscriptions in the Thai alphabet of the Sukhothai Period

Related tags : Sukhothai /Wat Si Chum/Thailand Temple /Buddha image/Wat Mahathat

Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng and Wat Sa Si : Sukhothai Province

2008-03-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

Wat Khao Phanom Phleng is a hilltop temple within the old town of Si Satchanalai. A laterite chedi in the center, s large viharn or image hall in front, and a small sanctuary behind all lie in ruins. Some laterite pillars and a damaged Buddha's image constructed of latelite slabs and coated with mortar are still to be seen.

Wat Sa Si
Situated near Wat Chanasongkhram is Wat Sa Si. Around a Singhalese-style chedi is the main sanctuary on an island in the middle of Traphang Trakuan pond. A large viharn contains a stucco Buddha image. To the south stand nine chedis of different sizes.

Related tags : Sukhothai /Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng/Thailand Temple /Wat Chanasongkhram

Wat Suwannakhuha : Phang Nga Province

2008-02-29T05:05:00.000-08:00

[photo credit to thai-tour ]

This temple is located in Mu 2, Tambon Krasom. Take Highway No. 4, (Phang-nga - Ban Khok Kloi route) for 7 kilometres and upon reaching the kilometre 31 marker at Amphoe Takua Thung, there is an asphalt road going to the right to the temple, one kilometre away. The locals call this temple Wat Tham. This is an interesting temple of all in Phang-nga since it is of historical and archaeological importance. Within the boundary of the temple is a mountain with numerous caves. Tham Yai is located at the lowest level and, inside, the total length of the cave walls is decorated ceramic tiles, bowls as well as terra cotta ware and Benjarong ware. It is also used as a temple and houses various manners of Buddha images, one of which is a splendid reclining Buddha image. You can also see many Royal Monograms inscriptions on the walls of the cave.

Related tags : Wat Suwannakhuha/thai temple/Phang Nga/Reclining Buddha/Wat Thai

Wat Thai Watthanaram ( Wat Thai Yai ) : Tak Province

2008-02-27T00:06:00.000-08:00

[photo credit to takcity ]

This temple is located at Mu 1, Tambon Ta Sai Luat, on the way to the Rim Moei border market, just 500 meters from the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge. The temple was originally known as Wat Thai Yai as the construction of the temple was greatly influenced by Burmese culture and Mahayana Buddhism. Enshrined within the temple are a reclining Buddha image and a marble Buddha image. In addition, on the second floor of the main Viharn, a collection of Burmese musical instruments, including tuned drums and gongs are on display.

source: tourismthailand

Related tags : Wat Thai Watthanaram/thai temple/reclining Buddha/Wat Thai

Wat Ratchanatdaram : Bangkok

2007-12-28T00:49:00.000-08:00

Located on Mahachai Road. This royal temple was built in the reign of King Rama III in 1846. Loha Prasat (Metal Palace), one of its tourist attractions, standing on its 36 meters high with 37 surrounding spires is the only one of its kind left in the world. Situated in the nearby area are a royal pavilion for a guest welcome and the memorial statue of King Rama III.

Important Buildings in the Temple

The Ordination Hall

Parallel to the canal, this edifice built in the style of King Rama III's period. There are square pillars all around it. The gable is decorated with stucco.
The main Buddha image inside is cast of copper, mined at Chanteuk in Nakhon Ratchasima province. It was placed there in A.D. 1864 by order of King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the name "Phra Setthamuni" to the image.

source:http://www.geocities.com/RainForest/7153/watratda.htm

Related tags : Wat Ratchanatdaram/royal temple/Bangkok/Thailand Temple/Wat Thai

Wat Ratchabophit : bangkok

2007-12-15T03:10:00.000-08:00

[ photo credit to dhammathai.org ]

This royal temple of the first grade stands is located near the Ministry of Interior. Its east side faces Fuangnakhon Road, the west side on Asadang Road near Khlong Lot, the north on Ratchabophit Road and the south of Wat Ratchabophit canel.

This temple was the last to be erected by King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V) . Later King Pokklao (King Rama VII) made it his task to restore this temple as if it was a temple of his reign.

Important Objects in the Temple

In this temple compound, all the buildings were erected on highly raised bases which are totally covered with marble; The Ordination Hall, Phra Chedi, the Wihan in front, the Circumambultory Gallery and small open pavilions which stand in row or on sides. All of these are within the surrounding wall one metre high decorated with glass tiles of five colours. His Royal Highness Prince Naris said that Phra Achan Daeng, a well known artist of King Rama's period, was the designer of these tiles which were made in China.

source:www.geocities.com/RainForest

Open : Daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Related tags : Wat Ratchabophit/royal temple/Bangkok/Thailand Temple/Wat Thai

Wat Benjamabophit ( Marble Temple ) : Bangkok

2007-12-13T04:58:00.000-08:00

WAt Benjamabopit Dusitwanaram (Wat Ben) , the Marble Temples, in located near Government House and the Equestrian Statue of King Rama IV. It is an old temple during from the Ayutthaya Period and was originally names Wat Laem or Wat Saithong. During the reign of King Rama IV, the temple was restored by five princes and renamed Wat Bejamabopit (five princes). In 1899 , King Rama V had the temple completely rebuilt and bestowed upon it the name Wat Benjamabopit Dusitwanaram , meaning the Temple of the Fifth King. He placed Prince Narissaranuwattiwong, the nation's chief architect, in change of the design and construction.

The name Marble Temple derives from the phra ubosot , which is square and completely covered with white marble . In it is enshrined a reproduction of the Phra Buddhachinarat image, which King Rama V had copied from the original in Phitsanulok Province.

[ Phra Buddhachinarat image ]

In the cloister extending from the north, around the west, to the south of the phra ubosot , there are 52 Buddha images of various styles and periods.

In the monastic residence area is a royal ordination hall, which was reconstructed there after having been moved from the Grand Palace. It was in this King Rama V lived when he entered the monkhood. The murals in this building are of historical interest, showing courtly customs and traditions during the reigns of King Rama IV and Rama V.

source: dhammathai

Related tags : Wat Benjamabophit/marble temple/Bangkok/Thailand Temple/Wat Thai

Wat Suwandararam : Ayutthaya

2007-10-30T05:12:00.000-07:00

Wat Suwandararam was built in very late Ayutthaya Period by the Father of King Rama I of Ratanakosin. The temple was then named "Wat Thong". The temple has been well looking after by the Kings of Rattanakosin Period.

In the ordination hall at Wat Suwandararam there are mural paintings which were painted to order of many Kings. King Rama IV of Rattanakosin had ordered the painters to paint scenes from the Chronical. In this picture the scene of King Naresuvara declaring independent from the Burmese.

[ This masterful mural in ordination hall of Wat Suwandararam, Ayutthaya, shows the brave King Naresuan on elephant back defeating the Burmese Crown Prince (Phra Mahauparacha) in 1592 ]

Related tags : Wat Suwandararam /Ayutthaya /Ayutthaya Period /Rattanakosin Period /Thailand Temple
/mural paintings

Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam : Ayutthaya

2007-10-30T04:06:00.000-07:00

[ photo credit to thai-tour.com]

Wat Lokkayasutharam This monastery is over a kilometre behind Wat Suanluangsopsawanadjacent to Wat Worachettharam. Accessible by the road inside the compound of the Distillery Plant, or through the road behind the Phlapphla Trimuk (three-gabled roof pavilion), It is in the area of the Acient Palace passing Wat Woraphot and Wat Worachettharam going to the siteof the large reclining Buddha, made of brick and covered with plaster, approximately 29 metres long. Many large hexagonal pillar ruins near the image are believed to be the ruins of the Ubosot.

Wat Phananchoeng : Ayutthaya

2007-10-30T03:24:00.000-07:00

Wat Phananchoeng is in the southern part of the city near the river. It was built in 1324 A.D., 26 year before king U-thong founded Ayutthaya, although it is not known by whom this temple was built. Phra Chao Phananchoeng, a large sitting Buddha constructed of brick and mortar, has been well known of a long time. King Naresuen the Great repaired it once, and the other Kings of Ayudhya must keep it in good repair too, though no mention is made of that in the chronicle, from which it is learnt only that when Ayudhya was taken by the Burmese tears flowed from the eyes of this image.

Later on the first king of the Chakri Dynasty and some of his successors repaired the image and towards the end of 1854 A.D., King Mongkut completely renovated the image and renamed it Phra Bhudh-trai-ratana nayok. On the 21st December 1901, during the reignof King Chulalongkorn, the outer garment of Phra Chao Phanan-cheng caught fire and the image was damaged in many places. King Chulalongkorn commanded the image to be repaired, and the work was finished in 1902 A.D.

On the 15th March 1928 the cheeks and the lower jaws of the image broke into pieces. The Royal Institute had it repaired in 1929. At that time Phra Dhamatri-lok the abbot of this monastery, on collecting the bits of gold leaves left by the devotees inside the Vihara gathered 165 grammes of that metal, 690 grammes of gold were contributed by others. With these 855 grammes of gold the head of the monastery made an "Una-lom" (ornament for the forehead substituted it for the older one which was of copper plated with gold).

Phra Chao Phananchoeng is held in respect by the Thai people who, when they visit ayutthaya, offer worship to this image and obtain prediction of their luck from its Vihara. Tourists who do not visit this temple miss the opportunity of seeing one of the very large, old and beautiful images. No Photographs of this image too are to be found in any book or even in the National Museum, where there is a collection of photographs of all other important images of the Buddha, because there is not enough room within the Vihara to set the camera at the proper distance to get a complete picture of this large image.

Phra Chao Phananchoeng is an image in the posture of subduing Mara. It measures 14 meters and 25 centimeters from knee to knee and 19 meters high (including the ornament above the head).

source: AYUTTHAYA

[photo credit to dhammathai.org]

Related tags : Wat Yai Chai Mongkol /Ayutthaya /Wat Phananchoeng /wat /Thailand Temple

Wat Indravihan: Bangkok

2007-10-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

Located in Bangkhunphrom area on Wisutkrasat Road, Wat Indravihan is well-known for a huge standing Buddha image. Thai image of ''Buddhasiariyametriya'', is 32 metres tall (108.99 feet) and 10 metres and 24 inches wide (40.09 feet).

This Buddhist monument was built during the reign of King Rama IV. The topknot of the Buddha image contains a relic of Lord Buddha brought from Sri Lanka. The temple is open to the public every day. There is no admission fee.

Wat Chantharam or Wat Tha Sung : Uthai Thani Province

2007-10-11T20:14:00.000-07:00

This old temple was built in Ayuthaya period. It was very decayed and rotten. Then one day Pra Rajpromyanthera (Luang Po Rusi Lingdum) came to this temple. He developed it to be the most famous and exquisite temple in Uthaithani province. There are Viharn Kaew (Glass Building) , Prasart Thong-kam (Golden Castle) , both of them are very exquisite and elaborate architecture. You can feed thousands of fish here.

source:
http://www.uthaithani.go.th

Related Tags:
Wat Chantharam/temple/thai temple/Wat Tha Sung/Wat Thai/Thailand

Wat Uposatharam (Wat Bost) : Uthai Thani Province

2007-10-03T04:14:00.000-07:00

Mural Paintings at Wat Ubosatharam

[ Photo : www.uthaithani.go.th ]

This monastery is situated on Ko Thepho opposite to Uthai Thani Province Market, commonly called by the residents as "Wat Bot". The early Rattanakosin period mural paintings on the walls of the main shrine hall are regarded as very beautiful. Paintings of divine being are on the upper part while scenes from the life of the Lord Buddha decorate the lower part of the wall.

Related Tags: Thai Murals Painting/Wat Uposatharam/ Uthai Thani/Thai painting/Mural Painting

Phra Rabiang (The cloister or Galleries) : Wat Phra Kaew

2007-10-03T03:08:00.000-07:00

[ photo: dhammathai.org ]

The Royal Chapel is surrounded on four sides by cloister-like gallerie. It was constructed in the late 18th century during the reign of King Rama I, and has a total of seven portals. Of these, the two most often used are each equiped with a disrobing pavilion and its attached palanquin-mounting platform: one is located to the west of the gallery opening onto the Palace grounds; the other is on the east and leads to the Swatdi-Sopha Gate and out into the city.

These pavilions served for the king to change from his monarchal attire into suitable garments for worship prior to entering the precincts of the Chapel, and to change back on his way out. Another note-worthy portal is the Sirattana Satsada Gate to the south of the Gallery. This portal opens onto the inner court of the Grand Palace. It was through this portal that the ladies of the Palace used to make their way to the Royal Chapel for worship, merit-making and other religious ceremonies.

The gallery is noted for its murals depicting the entire Ramakian (the Thai version of the Ramayana epic). The verses telling the story of the painting are inscribed on marble slabs imbedded on the four sides of each pillar supporting the gallery roof. There are 4,984 verses altogether. Though originally painted when the Gallery was built, the murals as seen today reflect little of the art of the First Reign because the chronic dampness that affected the walls of the Gallery caused rapid deterioration and peeling of the murals, necessitating frequent restorations throughout the two centuries of their existence.

Conservations was carried out during the Third, Fourth and Fifth Reigns but it is not certain whether the murals were nearly retouched or entirely repainted. For the 150th Anniversary of Rattanakosin in A.D. 1932 the paintings were white-washed over and painted anew. The most recent restoration was done in the present reign; starting in 1965, it took seven years to complete, and modern technology was employed in an attempt to prevent future humidity problems.

source: http://www.geocities.com/RainForest/7153/pakao22.htm

Related tags : Wat phra kaew /Bangkok /Ramakien /Mural painting /Wat/Thailand Temple/thai temple

Prasat Phra Thep Bidon (The Royal Pantheon) :Wat Phra Kaew

2007-09-10T21:22:00.000-07:00

The construction of the Royal Pantheon commenced in the year 1855, the first year of King Rama IV's regin. He intended to use it for the enshrinement of the Emerald Buddha. However, it was not completed until after his death, and his successor, King Rama V, did not move the palladium to the new building which he considered too small to accomodate the congregation at royal ceremonies. A Small gilt stupa belonging to King Rama IV was placed there instead.

The Royal Pantheon was built on a cruciform plan with four porticoes and a corncob shaped tower-like superstructure known as "prang", in 1903 the gilt stupa together with part of the edifice was destroyed by fire. After the repair of the building King Rama IV, the then reigning king, mde use of it as the Royal Pantheon of the Chakri Dynasty, bestowing on it the name Prasat Phra Thep Bidon (meaning the Shrine of the Celestial Ancestors). Life-size statues of the five preceeding kings from King Rama I to King Rama V were initially installed: those of King Rama VI, King Rama VII and King Rama VIII were installed later, after their deaths, and the Royal Pantheon was opened to the public to pay homage to their past sovereigns on April 6, the anniversary of the Founding of the Chakri Dynasty. The Royal Pantheon is noted for its eye-catching gilt lacquer angel-motif designs on the outer panels of the doors and windows, and for the decorative motif based on the emblems of each of the first five sovereigns of the Dynasty on the side panels of the outer recesses of the doors and windows. On the lintels are stucco gold designs composed of royal decorations.

Inside the Royal Pantheon, stands the mother-of-pearl inlaid cabinet for the canonical texts. The cabinet with its tiered roof is one of the most exquisite examples of the early Rattanakosin work of art whose creator, one of King Rama I's highest ranking courtiers, evidently strove to rival the best of Ayutthaya inlay workmanship. The dimensions of the cabinet in relation to those of the doorways of the building shows conformation to the convention of making the scripture cabinets larger than the exits so that thaey could not be removed from the place where they rightly belonged.

source:http://www.geocities.com/RainForest/7153/pakao9.html

photo credit :oceansmile

Related tags : wat phra kaew/wat thai/Bangkok/Thailand Temple/Royal Pantheon

Wat Phra Lao Thep Nimit : Amnat Charoen Province

2007-09-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

Wat Phra Lao Thep Nimit is on Highway 2049 about 2 kilometers from Amphoe Phana centre. It is an old temple. Phra Lao Thep Nimit, an ancient Buddha image, is houses in the beautiful ordination hall is about 200 years old. The Ubosot (convocation hall) is of the Lanna architectural style .The principal sacred Buddha image, in the attitude of Subduing Mara is lacquered and gilded.

source:Tourism Authority of Thailand

photo:thai-tour

Related Tags: Buddha Image/temple/thai temple/wat/Wat Thai

Wat Supattanaram : Ubon Ratchathani

2007-08-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

This is a royal temple of the Dhammayut Sect in the northeast. The temple, built in 1853 on the bank of the Mun River surrounded by beautiful and tranquil scenery. There is a Thai-Chinese-European style ordination hall, which houses the principal serene Buddha image of the temple.

photo: thai-tour
Related Tags: Wat Supattanaram/Ubon Ratchathani,/thai temple/Wat thai/temple

Wat Nong Bua : Ubon Ratchathani

2007-08-24T21:08:00.000-07:00

This is the only temple in this province that has a rectangular Chedi, which is an imitation of Chedi Buddhakhaya of India. The temple is located on the outskirts of Ubon Ratchathani on Highway No. 212 (Ubon-Amnat Charoen). At the 3-km. marker on the highway, turn into a side road and proceed for 800 meters to the temple.

Related Tags: Wat Nong Bua/Ubon Ratchathani/thai temple/Thai Chedi/temple/Buddhakhaya

Wat Nong Pah Pong : Ubon Ratchathani

2007-08-24T20:49:00.000-07:00

Wat Nong Pa Phong is a mediation center with a quiet and peaceful atmosphere where a number of foreigners practice Buddhism. The center is located on Highway No. 2178 about 6 kilometers from the city.

Wat Nong Pa Phong and Wat Pa Nanachat, provide a special opportunity for non-Thai speakers to find out more about Buddhism and to experience the insight meditation (Vipassana-style of meditation). For those interested, it is recommended that you can pay a visit to the temple of your choice and discuss with foreign monks beforehand. The participation in the meditation course may require some commitments. Call Wat Nong Pa Phong at tel. 045 322729 for more information. Staff speaks English.

Necessities to take with you when staying in Buddhist temple/monastery/retreat Centre:
The following items are suggested as useful to take:

- Clothes:Loose fitting, easily cared for. Simple sandals and some loss fitting tops, especially T-shirts are highly recommended. An umbrella can be useful in the rainy season. In the cold season a sweater or two would be practical. Also a blanket or sleeping bag.

- Medicine:Pills for diarrhea and constipation, mosquito repellent and coils, tiger balm or other ointment for bites. Some kind of antibiotic or disinfectant for cuts, band-aids, minor first-aid stuff. Eye wash can be very useful. Anti-malaria preventives.

- Food items:Most of the temples/monasteries provide both food and accommodation. However, there are some useful items you might bring along but not necessary: thermos, coffee, tea, sugar, milk, ovaltine, hot plate, cup and kettle.

- Toilet articles:Toilet paper, soap, mirror, all toilet articles. Helpful to have a small scrub brush for laundry.

- Tips: Behave with full awareness, dress conservatively, have much patience to yourself and others.

source:tourismthailand

Related Tags: Wat Nong Pah Pong/Ubon Ratchathani,/thai temple/Thailand temple/temple

Wat Neramit Wipattasana : Loei

2007-08-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

The temple is located on a hillside near Phra That Si Song Rak. Both the ordination hall and pagoda, which are constructed of laterite, were designed from the imagination of both monks and novices. On touring the interior visitors will notice a resemblance to the great temples of Bangkok. Other than a replica of Phra Phutthachinnarat (of Phitsanulok Province) that is enshrined here, there is a wax figure of the late Luang Pho Phra Maha Phan Sila Wisuttho, the founder of the temple.

photo:moohin

Related Tags: Wat Neramit Wipattasana/Loei /Wat/Temple/thai temple

Prathat Tha Uthen : Nakhon Phanom

2007-08-06T22:03:00.000-07:00

Phra That Tha Uthen is located opposite Hin Bun town in Laos. It is situated approximately 26 kilometers north of the city on Highway 212. Similar in style to Phra That Phanom, Phra That Tha Uthen is 66 meters high. Constructed in 1912, the chedi (pagoda) houses the relics of the Lord Buddha’s disciple brought from over from Yangon, Myanmar.

[source:thai-tour.com]

Related Tags: Pra That/Phra That Tha Uthen/Nakhon Phanom/Chedi/thai temple/wat

PRASAT NANG RAM : Nakorn Ratchasima province

2007-08-06T21:44:00.000-07:00

Prasat Nang Ram is located 79 kilometers far from town on the route No. 2 It can be reached by driving 62 kilometers to the crossroads of Ban Wat, then turing right along the highway No. 207 for 22 kms. To Ban Nang Ram and finally turining left with travelling further for 4 kilometers. Prasat Nang Ram was built in Khmer style during the 12th century to be a nursing place.

The sanctuary consists of the main stupa an vihara surrounded by laterite walls. Outside the wall, there is a pond lined with stepped laterite. Far away 80 meters, surrounded by leterite walls and the U-shaped pond are other three stupas assumed to be the residence of medical men.

Related Tags: Prasat Nang Ram/Nakorn Ratchasima/Prasat/ancient ruins

The 9-storey stupa Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon : Khon Kaen province

2007-07-15T02:47:00.000-07:00

Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon or The 9-storey stupa Located in Wat Nong Waeng, a royal temple on Klang Mueang Road, the Phra Mahathat houses relics of the Lord Buddha and important Buddhist scriptures. Doors and windows of the 9 storeys of the stupa are beautifully carved, featuring the life and former reinearnations of the Lord Buddha, 16 classes of visible deities in the Brahma’s world, and Buddhist rites. Murals within the stupa feature history of the town. The top floor, on the 9th storey, houses relics of the Lord Buddha. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the town from there.

Related Tags: stupa/Khon Kaen/Phra Mahathat/Chedi/thai temple/wat

Beautiful Pagoda Wat Tham Sua : Kanchanaburi

2007-07-15T02:06:00.000-07:00

Wat Tham Sua It's close to Wat Tham Khao Noi. The monastery was constructed in Thai architectural style. The Great Buddha image and pagoda placed in the temple is uniquely beautiful and is respected by all buddhists.

[photo: thai-tour]

Related Tags: pagoda/Wat Tham Sua/Kanchanaburi/Chedi/thai temple/wat