Wat Traimit - Temple of the Golden Buddha
"Located at the end of Chinatown's Yaowarat Road, near Hualampong Railway Station, Wat Traimit houses the world's largest gold seated Buddha. The Buddha measures nearly 5 metres in height and weighs five and a half tonnes. In the past, artisans crafted the Buddhas in gold and disguised them from invading armies by covering them in stucco and plaster. The Buddha at Wat Traimit was discovered by accident when it was accidentally dropped as it was being moved, revealing, under a casing of plaster, a beautiful sold gold Sukhothai style Buddha."
Source: http://www.bangkok.com/attraction-temple/wat-raimit.htm
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| passing through China Town |
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| passing the flower markets on the way to Wat Pho |
Wat Pho - Temple of the Reclining Buddha
"Wat Pho is one of the largest temple complexes in the city and is famous for its giant reclining Buddha that measures 15 metres tall and 46 metres long, covered in gold leaf. The reclining position demonstrates the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. The Buddha's feet are 5 metres long and are decorated with mother-of-pearl illustrations and 108 auspicious laksanas (characteristics) of the Buddha. Wat Pho was the first public university in Thailand, specialising in religion, science and literature. It is now more well-known as a centre for traditional massage and medicine. For a little good luck when you visit, a bowl of coins can be purchased at the entrance, which are dropped into the 108 bronze bowls that line the length of the walls. 108 is a significant number; referring to the 108 positive actions and symbols that helped lead Buddha to perfection. The large grounds contain 91 chedis (mounds), 4 viharas (halls) and more than 1000 images of Buddha."
Source: http://www.bangkok.com/attraction-temple/wat-po.htm
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| Buddha's feet |
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| Chedis |
Wat Benchamabophit - The Marble Temple
Also known as Wat Benjamabophit and Wat Benha
"Wat Benchamabophit was built in 1899 by Prince Narai, half-brother of Rama V. The boht (chapel) is made of white Carrara marble imported from Italy especially for the job. The structure is a prime example of modern Thai temple architecture, as is the interior design, which melds Thai motifs with European influences (such as stained-glass windows). The courtyard behind the both has 53 Buddha images (33 originals and 20 copies) representing every mudra (gesture) and style from Thai history."
This was definitely my favourite temple of the tour, and I had been looking forward to seeing it, considering I had been staring at the image of it on the front of the Lonely Planet Guide! Unfortunately during our time of visit, monks were occupying the boht and we were unable to catch a glimpse of the golden Buddha statue. However, it was lovely to sit down in the shade listening to the beautiful chants flowing outside. My camera also decided to die, so the last few snaps I captured on my phone, and I have Kate to thank for a few.
Sources: http://www.sacred-destinations.com/thailand/bangkok-wat-benchamabophit & http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thailand/bangkok/sights/buddhist-temple/wat-benchamabophit
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| Photo courtesy of Katie Cee |
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| This statue is considered to be Thailand's most beautiful walking Buddha |
The night concluded with a few drinks at the rooftop bar at Siam@Siam Hotel, only just down the road from the Ibis. Happy Birthday Lisa!
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Travel tip 8: When visiting temples and sacred/holy places, it is necessary to wear appropriate clothing; this means no exposed shoulders or skin above the knee. Females are also encouraged to carry a scarf which can be worn to cover the shoulders. At some temples, robes are loaned if clothing is not deemed to be appropriate.
For more must-see temples: http://www.bangkok.com/magazine/10-temples/htm
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