Thailand is a stunningly beautiful and interesting country. On its territory there are a lot of attractions that are of interest to tourists. Among the most interesting places, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok is most popular (description and photos are presented in the article), which is in first place in the lists of "mast si".
A bit about the temple ...
Wat Pho - the temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok (Thailand) - one of the oldest Buddhist complexes in the country. It is an important historical and cultural attraction not only of the province, but also of Thailand.
Among all the interesting places, the temple is most remembered by tourists, because here is the famous Reclining Buddha of enormous size.
The complex is known for the fact that it was proclaimed the first king of the country by Rama I General Chakri (in 1782). This moment is considered the beginning of the Chakri dynasty.
In fact, the name of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok translates as "the temple of the Buddha awaiting the achievement of nirvana." Such an unusual name for us is impressive.
Temple history
It is no secret where the temple of the Reclining Buddha is located. In bangkok. This is one of the oldest temple complexes. It existed long before Bangkok became the capital. The very first mention of the temple dates from the sixteenth century.
Initially, it had a slightly different name, which was associated with the Bodhi tree. According to legend, here the prince of Gautamana not only achieved enlightenment, but also became a Buddha.
King Rama I in 1782 moved the capital to Bangkok from Tonburi, building the royal palace next door. And in 1788, it was ordered to expand the territory of the temple and restore the buildings that were dilapidated by that time.
The following impressive restoration work was carried out already under Rama III and lasted for sixteen years. During this time, several buildings were built on the territory of the complex, and the borders of the temple were expanded. The complex acquired a modern look precisely under Rama III.
Now the territory of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok is divided into two parts. In the northern part are the most important monuments, among them the statue of the Reclining Buddha, which is open for viewing to pilgrims and tourists.
But the southern part is equipped for the monks. Ministers work in it. Guests and tourists are not allowed here.
How much does a visit cost?
The cost of visiting the Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok is 100 baht (213 rubles). Children whose height does not reach 120 centimeters can go for free. The price includes a bottle of drinking water. On the territory of the temple complex there is a place where you can drink water and pick it up in a bottle.
If desired, tourists have the opportunity to book a tour. The cost of the service depends on the occupancy of the group:
- For one person - 300 baht (640 rubles).
- For two people - 400 baht (850 rubles).
- For three guests - 500 baht (1000 rubles).
For a small donation in the temple, you can purchase a bracelet or ribbon that is worn on the wrist from the monks. Such amulets save the owners from dark forces. They are a blessing from Buddhist monks.
Working hours
If you decide to visit the complex, then you will be interested in the opening hours of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok. It is open for visits daily, from 8.00 to 18.30.
Numerous tuk-tuk drivers and barkers who can mislead you, saying that Wat Pho is closed, are on duty near any city attraction. Do not pay attention to their words, because they are frankly cunning, wanting to take you to another place and earn money on this. In fact, the complex is always open.
Visiting Rules
When visiting the temple, you must follow some rules. The place is religious, so you need to come in modest clothes and behave quietly. It is necessary to pay attention to certain points:
- Your clothes should cover your shoulders and knees. In the usual T-shirts and shorts, tourists are not allowed into the territory. Therefore, think over a set of clothes in advance.
- Before entering the temple itself, you must remove your shoes. This is evidenced by signs hanging on the territory.
- In addition, the threshold should be crossed at the entrance, but not stepped on it.
- Visitors are not allowed to touch the statues and images of Buddha.
- Women are forbidden to touch the monks. This rule is typical for all of Thailand.
How to get to the temple?
Every tourist is interested in how to get to the Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok. Wat Pho is located in the historic city center, near the Royal Palace.
Getting to him is easy. It is most convenient to use the services of a taxi or water transport. Ferries run regularly along the Chao Phraya River.
You can also get by city buses No. 524, 512, 508, 506, 123, 91, 82, 64, 53, 47, 44, 32, 25, 1. However, it should be understood that not all drivers speak English. And the Thai streets have such long names that it is difficult to understand exactly where to go.
If you order a taxi, it’s enough to tell the driver: “Wat Pho”, and you will be immediately taken to the indicated place. For a trip, it is better to choose a taxi with a meter, this will save you money.
You can get to the temple by boat. At each pier you will find a boat that will take you to the temple. During this trip you will have the opportunity to enjoy the surroundings. The ticket costs 20-40 rubles (10-20 baht).
Reclining Buddha Statue
The description of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok should begin with the statue itself, which reaches a height of 15 meters and a length of 46 meters. It was she who brought world fame to Wat Pho. The figure of the serene Buddha is calm, waiting for the moment of reaching nirvana.
The feet of the statue are 4.5 meters long and 3 meters high. Their surface is decorated with 108 pearl ornaments. Each of them conveys one of the qualities of the Buddha. In the central part of each foot is a chakra.
A mixture of shells, sand and gypsum was used to erect the statue. Later, the figure was covered with gold plates, and the eyes and feet were decorated with mother of pearl.
It is worth saying that the statue occupies almost the entire space of the temple. The huge size of the Buddha’s figure does not allow to fully examine it or take a good photo. The statue is mounted on a pedestal on which particles of the ashes of King Rama I are stored.
Behind the statue is a row of bronze vessels. A total of 108 of them. Each pot symbolizes the virtues of the Buddha. All temple guests have the opportunity to improve their karma and make a wish. To do this, for 20 baht, you can take a bowl with coins and walk with it along a row with vessels, throwing a coin into each of them and making a wish.
An old legend says that if you get to the last pot and you have enough coins and there are no extra ones left, your desire will certainly come true.
Pagodas
A photo of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok will appreciate the beauty of this amazing place. On the territory of the complex there are pagodas of four kings, which were erected in honor of the first four rulers of the Chakri dynasty. The complex is surrounded by a white wall with a gate, on guard of which there are mythical creatures. The height of each stupa reaches 42 meters.
The first to build a green pagoda during the reign of the first monarch. The second (white) was erected by Rama III for the burial of the ashes of Rama II. The king built the yellow stupa for himself. The dark blue (fourth) pagoda was erected by the king of Mongut. All four stupas symbolize the power of the Chakri dynasty.
Hall of scripture
Phra Mondob is a hall of scriptures built by Rama III to preserve the sacred texts of Tripitaka. Of interest is the beautiful roof of the building, made in the form of a crown.
Three pavilions were added to the main building, which were necessary to house Chinese porcelain, Buddha statues, ceramics, and scriptures. All the walls of the building are painted with interesting frescoes with scenes from the famous poem "Ramayana", which is considered a Hindu epic. But all its premises are closed for visits, since they contain tracts written on palm leaves. Their storage requires certain conditions.
Rock garden
Khao Mor is a rock garden made in the form of mountainous areas. It is decorated with statuettes of people, animals and pagodas. Thai ornamental and medicinal plants grow here. Placers of large and small stones were brought by order of Rama III from the royal palace.
The most interesting is the hermit hill. Stone figurines depict a variety of yoga poses that help a person cope with stress and pain. This part of traditional Thai medicine has come down to us since Ayutthaya. Initially, the figurines were made of clay, but later they were replaced with tin and zinc. Of the 80 sculptures, only 24 have survived.