TEMPLE IN THAILAND

Chedi Kong Khao Si Bun Nao at Nakhon Phanom Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 22:47:28 PDT

Chedi Kong Khao Si Bun Nao

Sitting on Phu Langka , this pagoda houses Buddha's bone relics from Nepal since 1457. The homage festival is held on December 5th . Worshippers need to walk uphill for 4.5 km. On the way several look out points , such as at Pha Ngoi and Pra Wio , offer spectacular view of the Mekong and Laos.

Temple in Thailand

Temple in Nong Khai Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 02:10:24 PDT

Temple in Nong Khai Thailand

Wat Pha Tak Sueo Temple

This Dharma-Yutti temple is situated on the Phu Phan Noi Range . The look- out spots provide good views of the Thai and Laos parts of the Mekong and its islets a footpath along the cliff passes a natural forest to Tham Phra

Wat Hin Mak Peng Temple

This Dharma-Yutti temple with its serene clearings sits on the scenic Mekong. Abbot that Thesarangsi turned it into a retreat for peace-seekers. The name comes from the three boulders by the river before the temple , which resemble "peng" , the ancient weight for gold measuring. Abbot Thet Thesarangsi , or Phra Ratchanirotrangsi Khampirapanyawisit , was born in 1902 and passes away in 1994 , after 71 years in monkhood.

Wat Aran Banphot Temple Phra Sutham Chedi

In this pagoda on the Mekong enshrined Buddha's bone relics. There is also a display of Pra Sutham Khanachan's life history ( Luang Phu Rian Waralapho, 1959-2005) An annual fuction in gratitude is held in January .

Wat Tham Si Mongkhon ( Wat Tham Din Phiang ) Temple

The complex cave with strange looking boulders at this temple is believed to resemble the mysterious abode of "naga" . Visitors need to contact the temple in advance.

Wat Pra That Bang Phuan Temple

Phra That Bang Phuan was built with burnt bricks in the bell shape style at the same as the Pathom Chedi in Nakhon Pathom Province. At the pagoda top enshrined Buddha's bone relics with replicas of 7 sacred places in Buddhism.

Sala Ku Kaeo

This is a Hindu shrine or a sculpture garden depicting stories from Buddhism . Hindu gods.literature , and folklore.

Wat Chetiya Khiri Wihan Temple ( Wat Phu Thok )

The temple is situated on Phu Thak Noi with 7 storey spiral staircase housing a memorial pagoda of Achan Chuan Kulachettha .

Temple in Thailand

Wat Phra Non of Thailand at Mae Hong Sorn

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 21:36:46 PST

Temple in Thailand

Wat Phra Non is a small temple situated at the base of Doi Kong Mu. The name literally means the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Therefore, it should not come as surprise when you see the reclining Buddha image house inside the temple.

The temple was made-to-order by Rama V in 1877 and considered to be more "lifelike" than most other temples. Initially the temple was suppose to be the final resting place of the king and the construction began in 1875. However, later it was changed to a temple.

The reclining Buddha is housed in a large wiharn. The open front of the wiharn faces the street. Right next to the reclining Buddha image is room that used as a museum. This museum was opened rather recently, in 1990. In the museum, you can find statues, religious books, old porcelain and some items dating back to when Thailand was occupied by the Japanese during the World War II.

Just next to the wiharn is a small graveyard where four cenotaphs are present. The cenotaphs house the ashes of the first four governors of the city. According to a rumor, the ashes of the first governor of the city are housed in one of the large chedis of Wat Doi Kong Mu but this cannot be endorsed.

Just behind the wiharn are two stairways leading to the side of Doi Kong Mu. Just at the beginning of the stairs there are two huge stone Shan lions. For most people the climb up the stairways is extremely exhausting and that is why mid-way there is a viewing platform which has a standing Buddha on it. This Buddha image looks over the city. For those who do not want to climb up to Doi Kong Mu, there is a road to drive up.

Next to the stairways are several small monuments worth spending time over. There is also a small wooden shrine that has a small altar and right next to the wiharn is a large platform on which is an image of a seated Buddha. This image is in a small square chedi.

Wat Phumin of Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 01:08:29 PDT

Nan is one of the lesser known provinces of Thailand and it is located in the northern part of Thailand in a valley surrounded by mountains. Due to its rough and difficult terrain, Nan was a small kingdom until the 20th century. The town of Nan has some beautiful temples but the most renowned is the cruciform temple called Wat Phumin.

According to experts, Wat Phumin was constructed in 1596 and it was restored to its former glory during the reign of King Chao Ananta Vora Ritthi Det, who ruled from 1867 to 1874. The temple is unique and spectacular in appearance.

Wat Phumin appears as if it was built on the backs of two gigantic cobras. The temple, due to its cruciform shape, has four entrances. Just before each entrance, there is a corridor and the corridor is ornately decorated with carved doors. The door to the east has Chinese demon guards, the one on the north has flowers, while the doors on the south and west have Lanna-style decorations depicting the forest life.

Even the interior of the temple is ornately done. In fact, the interiors are considered to be a fine example of Thai Lue architecture. The roof is supported by 12 pillar made up of teak. The pillars are decorated with elephant motifs and gold on a base of black and red lacquer. The ceiling of the temple is a masterpiece of decoration and you will be left in awe staring at it.

Right in the center of the bot is a flowered altar on which there are 4 Buddha images in Sukhothai style. Each Buddha image face the four directions and they have their hand pointing towards the earth and the fingers touching the ground, what is known as the classic Buddha-Invoking-Mother-Earth-to-be-His-Witness style. Next to the altar is a seat meant for use by monks who are teachers.

The walls of the temple have murals which are beautiful and colorful. The northern wall of the temple has scenes from Khattana Kumara Jataka while the western wall has scenes from the Nimi Jataka as well as those from the local life of that time. On the western door, there is a painting of a man whispering into a woman's ear, while the southern door has a portrait of a man, which is considered to be that of King Chao Ananta Vora Ritthi Det.

Temple in Thailand

Thailand Buddhist Temples

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 08:00:43 PDT

Photo of Royal Temple 2 Marble Slabs

Temples are classified into two main categories: Royal Temples and Common Temples. The Royal Temples were either built by royalty or came under their sponsorship. In Thailand, there are about 200 Royal Temples though there are only six of the highest grade.

Photo of Common Temples 1 Marble Slab

With its beautiful temples, rich culture and history, great weather, fine food and world-renowned beaches, Thailand is visited by approximately seven million visitors each year. It is a country of approximately sixty million people, with a land area equivalent to that of France. It is undergoing a remarkable economic expansion, with growth rates of approximately 8%-10 % each year. That's why Thailand continues to enter the sights of Thailand property investors looking for new opportunities away from the traditional European and Caribbean markets. The two key drivers behind the Thai property market are the domestic economic growth and tourism, and the expectation is that developments in both areas will contribute to a continuing upward trend in property prices. People buy property in Thailand for a number of reasons, from capital investments, to holiday rentals (with a long-term view of capital appreciation), to personal use as a holiday or retirement home.

Tourists and other foreigners should know some basic information before visiting Thailand and especially its temples. Thailand is a Buddhist country where Buddha images are held secret. Sacrilegious acts are punishable by imprisonment even if committed by foreign visitors. Visitors to temples should ensure that they are suitably dressed - no shorts or sing lets and ladies should also cover their arms. Shoes should be removed before entering any building and it would be polite to sit quietly when in the main temple buildings.

When visiting a temple it is polite to seek the permission of the Abbott before taking photographs or entering other than the main area. This can be done by approaching a monk or one of the many helpers found in the temple grounds. Normally permission is granted without seeing the Abbott, but your show of respect by asking, will be returned. If visiting popular temples, such as Wat Phra Kaeo in the Grand Palace grounds, there is no need to seek any permission, but you should look out for signs indicating where photography is forbidden.

Wat Phra Kaeo temple is situated in the capital city of Bangkok and is more commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha because it houses a small two foot jade statue of Buddha which rests upon a huge golden alter. The temple is very elaborately decorated with a rich array of colours that are sure to astonish and dazzle all visitors. This Buddhist temple is also significant in that it is the official royal chapel where the revered Thai royal family goes to perform their religious ceremonies. Phra Kaeo temple is situates inside the grounds of the Royal Palace and aside from the decorations of the actual building is home to some fascinating paintings and sculptures.

Wat Traimit, Temple of the Gold Buddha- the most amazing feature of this temple is the fact that the 3 meter tall Buddha image is made up of 5.5 tons of solid gold. It was made about 700 years ago in the Sukhothai period but the image was covered in plaster in fear of the invading Burmese. It was rediscovered about 40 years ago.

Besides these one should also visit the Wat Pho (Wat Phra Chetuphon or Temple of Reclining Buddha) Wat Suthat , Wat Ratchabophit, Wat Ratchanatdaram , Wat Thepthidaram , Wat Saket (The Golden Mount) , Wat Mahathat and the Wat Rakhangkositaram.
Temple in Thailand

Wat Chaiwatthanaram In Ayutthaya

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 07:40:24 PDT

Wat Chaiwatthanaram is a Buddhist temple in the city of Ayutthaya, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, outside Ayutthaya island. It is one of Ayutthaya's most well known temples and a major tourist attraction.

Location
Wat Chaiwatthanaram lies on the west bank of Chao Phraya River, south west of the old city of Ayyuthaya. It is a large compound and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It can be reached by road or by boat

History
The temple was constructed in 1630 by the king Prasat Thong as the first temple of his reign, as a memorial of his mother's resident in that area. The temple's name literally means the Temple of long reign and glorious era. It was designed in Khmer style which was popular in that time.

It has a central 35 meter high prang in Khmer style (Thai: พระปรางด์ประธาน) with four smaller prangs. The whole construction stands on a rectangular platform. About halfway up there are hidden entrances, to which steep stairs lead.

The central platform is surrounded by eight chedi-shaped chapels ( Meru Thit Meru Rai), which are connected by a rectangular cross-shaped passage (Phra Rabieng). The passage had numerous side entries and was originally roofed and open inwards, but today only the foundations of the pillars and the outside wall still stand. Along the wall, there were 120 sitting Buddha statues, probably painted in black and gold.

The eight chedi-like chapels are formed in a unique way. They had paintings on the interior walls, the exterior ones decorated by 12 reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Buddha (Jataka), which must be "read" clockwise. Just fragments of the paintings and the reliefs survived. In each of the rectangular chedis were two sitting Buddha statues and in each of the four middle chedis was one big sitting Buddha statue, also lacquered in black and gold. The ceiling over those statues was of wood with golden stars on black lacquer.

Outside of the passages on the east, close to the river was the temple's ordination hall (Phra Ubosot). North and south from the Ubusot stood two chedis with "12 indented corners" , in which the ashes of the king's mother were laid.

After the total destruction of the old capital ( Krung Kao) by the Burmese in 1767, from which Wat Chai Watthanaram was not spared, the temple was deserted. Theft, sale of bricks from the ruins and the beheading of the Buddha statues were common. Only in 1987 did the Thai Department of Fine Arts start restoring the site. In 1992 it was opened to the public.

Usage
Wat Chaiwatthanaram was a royal temple where the king and his successors performed religious ceremonies. Princes and princess were cremated here, including King Boromakot's son Chaofa Thammathibet

Symbolic
The Wat Chaiwatthanaram structure reflects the Buddhist world view, as it is described already in the Traiphum Phra Ruang, the "three worlds of the King Ruang", of the 14th century:

The big "Prang Prathan" that stands in the centre symbolizes the mountain Meru (Khao Phra Sumen), which consists the central axis of the traditional world (Kamaphum ). Around it lie the four continents (the four small Prangs) that swim in the four directions in the world sea . On one of the continents, the Chomphutawip , the humans live. The rectangular passage is the outer border of the world, the "Iron Mountains"

Temple in Thailand

Wat Mahaeyong

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 03:29:29 PDT

Wat Mahaeyong is located in the opposite direction of Wat Yai
Chai Mongkol. The restoration work had been done and upon
our visit on June 24, 2001, this temple is much more
attractive. The parking lot for tourist is provided, while the
compound is nicely improved. The main large chapel is
restored and some Buddha images are installed.

Temple in Thailand

Wat Ratchanadda Loha Prasat Bangkok

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 03:10:07 PDT

Temple in Thailand

Wat Ratchanaddaram or Loha prasat is a buddhist temple located at the intersection between Ratchadamnoen Klang and Mahachak Road, in Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok. Meaning Royal Niece, the temple was built to the order of King Nangklao (Rama III) for Mom Chao Ying Sommanus Wattanavadi ) in 1846.

The temple is best known for the Loha Prasat , a multi-tiered structure 36 m high and having 37 metal spires, signifying the 37 virtues toward enlightenment. It is the third Loha Prasada (brazen palace) in existence, modelled after the earlier ones in India and Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. In the past, Loha Prasat was hidden behind an old movie theatre named Chalerm Thai. The theatre were demolished in 1989 as a project to improve scenery along Ratchadamnoen Road.

In 2005, the temple was submitted to UNESCO for consideration as a future World Heritage Site.

A Thai Temple Adventure

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 23:48:15 PDT

Thailand's culture is a mixture of influence from Cambodia, Southeast Asia, and India, creating a very unique culture indeed. Buddhism is the national religion and respect towards ancestors and towards religion is essential in this culture. That is why there are so many different temples throughout Thailand - there are over 31,000. Historically, temples played an integral part, often surviving war and invasion when other buildings did not. And the temples are also extremely important in everyday life, shaping society by bringing values to the cities that they are located in.

If you are planning a visit Thailand, there are a number of temples you should consider exploring. There are a specific few that should definitely make your list:

* Ancient Palace - The ancient temple is officially called Wat Phra Si san Phet. This temple was the largest temple in the area and was used as a royal palace during its history. The main attraction is a complex at the entrance to the palace which has a number of buildings that visitors can wander through to get a feel for the ancient past of this beautiful temple.

* Wihan Phramongkhon Bophit - This temple is special because it contains one of the largest bronze Buddha statues that can be found in Thailand. It was restored in the 1950s and was the first site for royal cremations.

* Wat Chaiwatthanaram - This beautiful temple is a must-see for those who are visiting Thailand for the first time. It was built in 1630 on the Chao Phraya River and was designed to look much like temples that can be found in Cambodia. There are over 100 Buddha images and statues in the building, and most travelers state that it is one of the most peaceful and mystical temples that a visitor to the area can enjoy.

The temples of Thailand are much more than historical and religious structures; they are magical as well, prompting thousands of visitors every year, regardless of their religious beliefs, to flock to these amazing and beautiful sites.

All Temple located in Ayuthya Province Thaialnd

Temple in Thailand

Wat Phra Borom That Chaiya in Thailand at Suratthani

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 05:14:26 PDT

Chaiya is one of the oldest cities of Thailand. The name might be derived from its original Malay name "Cahaya" (means 'light', 'gleam', or 'glow'). However some scholars identify Chai-ya came from Sri-vi-ja-ya. It was a regional capital in the Srivijaya kingdom of the 5th to 13th century - some historians even claim that it was the capital for the kingdom for some time, but this is largely disputed. The temple Wat Phra Borom That is centered around a reconstructed stupa in Srivijaya style. The nearby branch of the National Museum has several relicts of that time on display. Two more former stupas nearby are now only brick mounds. Inscription 23, as it was labeled by Prince Damrong in his Collected Inscriptions of Siam, is now attributed to Wat Hua Wiang in Chaiya. Dated to the year 697 of the Mahasakkarat era (i.e. 775 CE), the inscription on a Bai Sema shaped stone tells about the King of Srivijaya having erected three stupas at that site that possibly the one at Wat Phra Borom That. But also be assumed as three stupas at Wat Hua Wiang (Hua Wiang temple), Wat Lhong (Lhong temple) and Wat Kaew (Kaew temple) found in the area of Chaiya ancient city, stand in the direction from north to south on the old sand dune.

Another important temple near Chaiya is the Wat Suan Mohkha Phalaram (also known by the short name Suan Mok, or Wat Than Nam Lai Monastery of Flowing Water), a forest temple. The temple was founded in 1932 by Phra Buddhadasa (1906-1993), a highly revered Buddhist teacher. In 1959 the temple was relocated to the present 150 acre (0.6 km²) site. These temples were believed to be used to store rice in large quantities, this was due to the invading Japanese at that time. These large Buddhist Rice temples are vary rare in the region and only one has be officially labeled as a rice storage tempels.

Chaiya National Museum

On Moo.3 Tumbon Veing, Aumper meag Chaiya Surat Thani.The nearby branch of the National Museum has several relicts of that time on display. Two more former pagodas nearby are now only brick mounds. Inscription 23, as it was labeled by Prince Damrong in his Collected Inscriptions of Siam, is now attributed to Wat Hua Wiang in Chaiya. Dated to the year 697 of the Mahasakkarat era (i.e. 775 CE), the inscription on a Bai Sema shaped stone tells about the King of Srivijaya having erected a stupa at that site, possibly the one of Wat Phra Borom That.

Traffic

Chaiya is on the southern railway line, Chaiya Railway Station is the main railway station of the district; the Asian highway AH2 (Thailand Route 41) also passes the city.

Nong Bua Temple of Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 07:34:58 PDT

Nong Bua Temple of Thailand

Visit to Thailand

Nong Bua Temple is a must stop. Nong Bua Temple is one of Thailand's most important legacies. It located around 45 kilometers from Nan city in Tambon Pakha on 1080 Nan-Pua Road, which is a highway.

According to archeologists, Nong Bua Temple was actually located around 500 meters from its present location near the Nong Bua swamp. However, the remains of the old temple no longer exist. The temple was later constructed at its present location and it was registered by the Religion Department, which was established by Monk Sunanta and the locals in 1772.

Temple Style

The temple is constructed in the Thai Lanna style of architecture. It is considered to be quite a rarity as architecture like this is hardly seen these days. The walls of the temple are decorated with beautiful murals but unfortunately not much is known about the history of this beautiful temple. All the information that is present is based on the stories told by the elders of the village.

It is believed that murals in the temple were created by an artist named Thid Bua Phan, who was from Laos. The artist created the paintings on request from the Nan king and he was assisted by a monk and a soldier. It is estimated to be around 100 to 142 years old.

Murals Painting

The details in the murals and painting estimated experts to calculate the age of the temple. Some paintings show a steam boat and Caucasian soldiers; and we know from historical documents that the first steam arrived from Europe during the reign of King Rama IV.

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Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit at Bangkok in Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 07:39:25 PDT

Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit at Bangkok in Thailand

Wat Mahathat, Bangkok

Wat Mahathat Yuwarajarangsarit Rajaworamahavihara is a Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand. It is one of the 6 royal temples of the highest class
Built during Ayutthaya period, the temple was then known as Wat Salak. Soon after Bangkok was established as the capital of Siam, the temple became strategically situated in between the newly-built Grand Palace and Front Palace (residence of the vice-king). As a result, the temple was used for royal ceremonies and funerals.

Throughout the past two centuries, the temple has been renovated and elevated in status by many Thai kings and royalties. It became the Wat Mahathat of Bangkok in 1803 and was given its current name in 1996.
Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Thailand's oldest higher education institute for Buddhist monks, is located within the temple.

Wat Suthat at Bangkok in Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 07:41:59 PDT

Wat Suthat at Bangkok in Thailand

Wat Suthat Thepwararam (Thai: วัดสุทัศน์เทพวราราม) is a royal temple of the first grade, one of six such temples in Thailand. Construction was begun by His Majesty King Rama I in 1807 (B.E. 2350). Further construction and decorations were carried out by King Rama II who helped carve the wooden doors, but the temple was not completed until the reign of King Rama III in 1847 (B.E.2390). This temple contains the Buddha image Phra Sri Sakyamuni or "Sisakayamunee" which moved from Sukhothai province. At the lower terrace of the base, there are 28 Chinese pagodas which mean the 28 Buddhas born on this earth. Wat Suthat also contains Phra Buddha Trilokachet in the Ubosot (Ordinary Hall) and Phra Buddha Setthamuni in Sala Kan Parien (Meeting Hall)

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing

Phra Si Sakyamuni, Buddha-Statue in Wat Suthat

In 2005, the temple was submitted to UNESCO for consideration as a future World Heritage Site.

Wat Bowonniwet Vihara at Bangkok in Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 07:46:00 PDT

Wat Bowonniwet Vihara Rajavaramahavihara

(Thai: วัดบวรนิเวศวิหารราชวรวิหาร; RTGS: Wat Bowon Niwet Wihan Ratchaworawihan) is a major Buddhist temple (wat) in Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok, Thailand. The temple is a center of the Thammayut Nikaya school of Thai Theravada Buddhism and has been a major temple of patronage for the Chakri dynasty. It is the shrine-hall of Phra Phutthachinasri (พระพุทธชินสีห์) which was moulded in about 1357.

Statue of King Rama IV in a niche at Wat Bowonniwet

Royal patronage Prince Bhikkhu Mongkut arrived at the temple in 1836 (ordination name: Vajirañāṇo) and became the first abbot. He later acceeded to the throne of Siam as King Rama IV. His great grandson, King Bhumibol Adulyadej ordained at the Grand Palace (Wat Phra Kaew) and resided here for a short period after he became King. Bhumibol's mentor, Somdet Phra Yanasangworn, eventually became abbot of the temple, and later, the Supreme Patriarch of Thai Buddhism. Exiled dictator Thanom Kittikachorn returned to Thailand as a novice monk to join Wat Bowonniwet leading to large public demonstrations and a bloody crackdown in October 1976. King Bhumibol Adulyadej's son, Prince Vajiralongkorn was ordained and spent a short period at this temple, as well as several of the Prince's own sons.

Wat Arun in the Bangkok Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 07:50:03 PDT

Wat Arun

(Thai: วัดอรุณ, Temple of the Dawn) is a Buddhist temple (wat) in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahawihan

Wat Arun at Chao Phraya River

Sunset at Wat Arun

Prang of Wat Arun

Architecture The outstanding feature of Wat Arun is its central prang (Khmer-style tower). Begun in 1809, it may have been named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. Steep steps lead up to two terraces. The height is reported by different sources as between 66.8 m and 86 m. The corners are surrounded by 4 smaller satellite prangs. The prangs are decorated by seashells and bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China.
The central prang is topped with a seven-pronged trident, referred to by many sources as the "trident of Shiva".
Around the base of the prangs are various figures of ancient Chinese soldiers and animals. Over the second terrace are four statues of the Hindu god Indra riding on Erawan.

At the riverside are 6 pavilions (sala) in Chinese style. The pavilions are made of green granite and contain landing bridges.
Next to the prangs is the Ordination Hall with a Niramitr Buddha image supposedly designed by King Rama II. The front entrance of the Ordination Hall has a roof with a central spire, decorated in coloured ceramic and stuccowork sheated in coloured china. There are 2 demons, or temple guardian figures, in front.

Mythology
The central prang symbolizes Mount Meru of the Indian cosmology. The satellite prangs are devoted to the wind god Phra Phai.

The demons (Thai: Yaksha) at the entranceway to the ubosot are from the Ramakien. The white figure is named Sahassa Deja and the green one is known as Thotsakan, the Demon Rāvana from Ramayana.

Travel
Most of the tour packages around Bangkok offer a stop at Wat Arun, and it is an easy place to access by public transport. For the foreigners, the temple charges an entrance fee of THB 50 (as of June 2009).

Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai of Northern Thailand.

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 07:55:42 PDT

Wat Phra Singh

(full name: )Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn is a Buddhist temple (Thai language: Wat) in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII), the older brother of the present King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), bestowed it the status of Royal temple of the first grade in 1935.

A simplified plan of Wat Phra Singh

Viharn Luang

The temple houses an important Buddha statue: the Phra Buddha Sihing which gives the temple its name. The origins of this statue are unknown but, according to legend, it was based on the lion of Shakya, a statue since lost which used to be housed in the Mahabodhi Temple of Bodh Gaya (India). The Phra Buddha Sihing statue is supposed to have been brought, via Ceylon (present day Sri Lanka), to Ligor (present day Nakhon Si Thammarat and from there, via Ayutthaya, to Chiang Mai.

There are two more Buddha statues in Thailand which are claimed to be the Phra Buddha Sihing: one is housed in Wat Phra Mahathat in the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat and another in the Bangkok National Museum.

It is alleged that the head of the statue had been stolen in 1922. The possibility remains that the present statue (or maybe only the head) is a copy.
Every year, during the Songkran festival, the statue is taken from Viharn Lai Kham and carried through the streets of Chiang Mai in a religious procession during which the spectators honour the statue by sprinkling water over it.

The Phra Buddha Sihing statue inside Viharn Lai Kham

The ubosoth of Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Singh (full name: Wat Phra Singh Woramahaviharn - Thai alphabet: วัดพระสิงห์วรมหาวิหาร (Pronunciation)) is a Buddhist temple (Thai language: Wat) in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII), the older brother of the present King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), bestowed it the status of Royal temple of the first grade in 1935.

Location

Wat Phra Singh is located in the western part of the old city centre of Chiang Mai, which is contained within the city walls and moat. The main entrance, which is guarded by Singhs (lions), is situated at the end of the main street (Rachadamnoen road) of Chiang Mai. The road runs east from the temple, via Tapae Gate, to the Ping River.

Notability

The temple houses an important Buddha statue: the Phra Buddha Sihing which gives the temple its name. The origins of this statue are unknown but, according to legend, it was based on the lion of Shakya, a statue since lost which used to be housed in the Mahabodhi Temple of Bodh Gaya (India). The Phra Buddha Sihing statue is supposed to have been brought, via Ceylon (present day Sri Lanka), to Ligor (present day Nakhon Si Thammarat and from there, via Ayutthaya, to Chiang Mai. There are two more Buddha statues in Thailand which are claimed to be the Phra Buddha Sihing: one is housed in Wat Phra Mahathat in the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat and another in the Bangkok National Museum.
It is alleged that the head of the statue had been stolen in 1922. The possibility remains that the present statue (or maybe only the head) is a copy.

Every year, during the Songkran festival, the statue is taken from Viharn Lai Kham and carried through the streets of Chiang Mai in a religious procession during which the spectators honour the statue by sprinkling water over it.

History

Construction on Wat Phra Singh began in 1345 when King Phayu, the fifth king of the Mangrai dynasty, had a chedi built to house the ashes of his father King Kham Fu. A viharn and several other buildings were added a few years later and the resulting complex was named Wat Lichiang Phra. When, in 1367, the statue of Phra Buddha Singh was brought to the temple, the temple complex received its present name. During restoration works in 1925, three funerary urns were discovered inside a small chedi. It was assumed that these contained royal ashes.

The urns have since been lost. From 1578 to 1774 the Burmese ruled Lanna and in this period the temple was abandoned and came under serious disrepair. It was only when King Kawila assumed the throne as King of Chiang Mai in 1782, that the temple was restored. King Kawila had the ubosoth built and the chedi enlarged. Later successors restored the Viharn Lai Kham and the elegant Ho Trai (temple library).
The whole temple complex underwent extensive renovations under the famous monk Khru Ba Srivichai during the 1920s. Many of the buildings were again restored in 2002.

Gallery

Murals inside Viharn Lai Kham

Ho Trai (temple library)

Murals inside Viharn Lai Kham

Ho Trai (temple library)

Murals inside Viharn Lai Kham

Ho Trai (temple library)

Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat in Phitsanulok Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 07:59:07 PDT

Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat Woramahawihan

also commonly referred to as Wat Yai is a Buddhist temple (Wat) in Phitsanulok, Thailand, where it is located on the bank of the Nan River near the Naresuan Bridge.

Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat Woramahawihan

The cloister of the temple was established in 1357 during the reign of King Maha Thammaradscha I of Sukhothai

Phra Buddha Chinnarat

Wat Yai is famous throughout Thailand for its golden sculpture of the Buddha called the Phra Buddha Chinnarat (Thai: พระพุทธชินราช). Many Thai people consider the Phra Buddha Chinnarat to be the most beautiful Buddha portrait in Thailand.

It depicts Buddha in the posture of overcoming Mara (Thai: ปางมารวิชัย), also called Mara submission.
A stone inscription indicated that he was molded over 700 years ago by a King Mahathamaracha Lithai of Sukhothai dynasty. Several faithful copies of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat are displayed in other temples, including Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok and Wat Saranat Thammaram in Rayong. Also, the Phra Buddha Chinnarat is depicted on the official seal of the Phitsanulok Province.

Architecture
The temple's large vihara has an immense main entrance with mother-of-pearl inserts donated by King Boromakot in 1756. Beyond the vihara is a Khmer style prang, the inside of which can be accessed via a stairway. The Prang is said to enshrine relics of the Buddha.

Museum
The Buddha Chinnarat National Museum, located on the temple grounds, houses a sizeable collection of Sukhothai period art.

Events

Festivals often take place on the temple grounds, including the annual Phra Buddha Chinnarat Fair. Also, on the first weekend of each October, the Phitsanulok Dragon Boat Races take place outside the temple in the river.

Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakhon Pathom

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 08:03:19 PDT

Phra Pathom Chedi

Chedi of Nakhon Pathom

Phra Pathom Chedi is the tallest stupa in the world with the height of 127 metres (417 ft). It is located in the town of Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.

The name Phra Pathom Chedi means Holy chedi (stupa) of the beginning. The stupa at the location is first mentioned in Buddhist scriptures of the year 675, however archaeological findings date back to the 4th century. In the 11th century it was overbuilt with a Khmer (Ancient Cambodia) style prang, which was later overgrown by the jungle.

The ruin was visited several times by the later King Mongkut during his time as a monk, and after his coronation he ordered the building of a new and more magnificent chedi at the site. After 17 years of construction it was finished in 1870, and the population of nearby Nakhon Chai Si was ordered to move to the newly created town around the chedi.

Wat Phra Mahathat, Nakhon Si Thammarat

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 08:07:11 PDT

Wat Phra Mahathat, Nakhon Si Thammarat

Phra Boromathat Chedi or Phra That Nakhon

The Phra Baromathat Chedi of the Wat Phra Mahathat Voramahavihan, one of the most important historical sites in southern Thailand. According to the city chronicle it was already built in 311, but archaeology dates it to the 13th century. The chedi is surrounded by the animals of the Chinese zodiac in the seal.

The twelve animals represent the twelve Naksat cities or city-states which were tributary to the Nakhon Si Thammarat kingdom: the mouse of Saiburi; the ox of Pattani; the tiger of Kelantan; the rabbit of Pahang (actually a city in Pahang which is said to be submerged by a lake now); a large snake of Kedah; a small snake of Phatthalung; a horse of Trang; a goat of Chumphon; a monkey of Bantaysamer (might be Chaiya, or a town in Krabi Province); a cock of Sa-ulau (unidentified city, might be Songkhla, Kanchanadit or Pla Tha); a dog of Takua Pa and a pig of Kraburi.

The provincial flower is the Golden Shower Tree (Cassia fistula), and the provincial tree is Millettia atropurpurea.

Temple in Pattaya Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 08:11:34 PDT

Temple Yansangworn or WatYanSangwaramworamahavihara

is located Sattahip near Patthaya , The Temple is big area and very beautiful.

Temple in Ko samui Suratthani

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 08:15:34 PDT

Pra Yai Temple or Wat Pra Yai
is land mark of Ko Samui Suratthani, People go to there to make merit.
And Take a photo with the large Buddha image.

Temple in Phuket Thailand

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 08:18:20 PDT

Chalong Temple or Wat Chalong

The most important of the 29 Buddhisi Temple of Phuket is Wat Chalong located in the tambon Chalong, Mueang Phuket district. It is dedicated to two highly venerable monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang , who with their knowledge of herbal medicine helped the injured of a tin miners rebellion in 1876.

Arunrajawararam Temple

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 02:54:26 PDT

Wat Arunrajawararam

The famous Wat Arun in Bangkok is known as The Temple of Dawn. It is also known locally by the Thais as Wat Chaeng and is situated on the West side of the Chao Phraya River. This Buddhist temple is a well known landmark and most recognize it by its massive elongated central prang. The tourism Authority of Thailand is proud to announce that the prang is 104 metres high; however others have said it is only around 70 metres high.

History of the Temple

The temple was constructed in the days of Thailand's ancient capital of Ayutthaya. It was a host to two Buddha images; the Emerald Buddha (relocated to Wat Phra Kaew) and the Phra Bang. King Rama II, King Rama III and King Rama IV restored the temple while in reign and it was King Rama IV who named the temple Wat Arunratchawararam.

Architecture

The temple is a beauty, its architecture and fine craftsmanship is of excellence. To date, it is one of the finest and most outstanding temples in Thailand. Wat Arun is decorated by seashells and Chinese porcelain bits whose origins were from the boat's ballast; these boats sailed from China to Bangkok during the rule of King Rama III. The exterior is decorated with tiny pieces of coloured glass, making it extremely spectacular at sunset and at night when the temple is lit.

Touring the Area

Walking up the stairs of the prang to catch a glimpse of the Chao Phraya river is possible, however be careful as the stairs are pretty steep. Walking around the Wat grounds is peaceful; one could view the murals, mystical guardians and Buddha image. Although the area is peaceful, the peace might be disrupted by the locals asking for donations of about 100 baht.

To get the best views and photographs of Wat Arun, it is advisable to wait till evening so as to capture the sun setting behind the attraction. However, due to the closing time (stated below), one could go into some restaurants on the other side of the river to watch the sun set and take some photos.
Opening Times and getting there

This attraction is opened daily from 8.30am to 5.30pm and the easiest way to get to Wat Arun is by taking a ferry through the river. The ferry leaves at every few minutes and it can be taken from the Tha Tien express boat pier (South-West of the Grand Palace).

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing
Bangkok vacation apartments & Holiday rental accommodation.

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Suthatthepwararam Temple

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 03:03:59 PDT

Wat Suthatthepwararam
Wat Suthat Thepwararam is situated on Bamrung Muang road, Rajbophit sub-district, Phranakhon district, Bangkok near Sao Ching Cha (Giant swing). It located almost at the centre of Bangkok or Ratanakosin Island ; this was Buddhist belief like mount Phra Sumeru being the centre of the universe.

Wat Suthat is the first class royal temple, King Rama I, the founder of Bangkok commissioned its construction in 1807 to enshrine the Phra To or Phra Sri Sakayamuni, the Princeipal Buddha image was moves from Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai to be placed in Phra Vihara Luang in Wat Suthat in 1808.

The construction began during the reign of the King Rama I and completed in 1851 at the end of the reign of King Rama III.

In the ancient time, this temple was called by many names i.e. Wat Maha Sutthawat was given by the King Rama I, Wat Suthattheptharam was given by the King Rama II. And Wat Suthatthepwararam was given by the King Rama IV.

Wat Suthat is surrounded by an impressive wall 1.94 meters high and 0.85 meters thick. There are 15 doorways leading grounds, the most important building id Phra Vihara Luang as the Royal temple.

Surrounding the Royal temple id Phra Vihara Khot balcony which has been established 156 stucco Buddha statues and mostly in the seated meditative attitude.

The main chapel was built in third reign and is the most beautiful and very large and long in Thailand

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Saket Rajaworamahavihara TEMPLE

isarakarn1968@yahoo.co.th — Tue, 25 May 2010 08:23:39 PDT

Saket Rajaworamahavihara Temple or Wat Saket

is located in Bangkok near The King Rama the 3 statue, along the Mahanak and Rob Kung Canal, and near the Phanfa Leelas Brige. The temple was an ancient temple dating from the Ayuthaya Period. King rama the 1st ordered the renovation of Temple, and named Wat Saket, ( Wash The Hair ) Becuase when he return from Cambodia to quell great confusion in Thonburi and his success to the thorne for Chakri Dynasty in 1782.

After that king Rama the 3 rd ordered the temple to be renovated and had some new buildings constructed, the most important being the Phra Borom Banpot , or Golden Mount ( Phu Khow Thong )
that was to be in a Phra prang , but was not completed in his reign, and king Rama the 4th decided to contruct instead an artificial mountain with a Chedi on the summit, and was completed in the reign of King Rama the 5th and become the housed relics of the Buddha.