Wat Phra Kaew & Thailand Temples

Wat Saket and The Golden Mount in Bangkok

2007-11-18T19:24:00.000-08:00

Wat Saket is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok, was built by King Rama I in the late 18th century. The first Golden Mount was built by King Rama III but the soft soil led to its collapse. The Golden Mount which is seen today, created by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).

Wat Saket is major feature is the Golden Mount, dating from the 1800s, which overlooks Ratchadamnoen Avenue. The golden chedi houses relics of Lord Buddha and offers a panoramic view of historic Bangkok.

Admission to Wat Saket is free except for the final approach to the Golden Mountain summit; which costs 10 Baht.

Wat Luang Ta Bua - The Tiger Temple in Thailand

2007-10-03T00:36:00.000-07:00

Wat Luang Ta Bua, well known as Tiger Temple is located about 40 km from Kanchanaburi. The temple is a rescue center for animals especially wild animals and a home of wild tigers, deers, wild pigs, apes etc..

The tiger are taken out from cage during 1530hrs. - 1700hrs. that you can see them closely and able to touch the tigers!! Wat Pa Luangta Bua Yannasampanno Forest Monastery was established by the Abbot-Phra Acharn Phusit (Chan) Kanthitharo in 1994.

Since its opening Wat Pa Luangta Bua gained a reputation as a wildlife sanctuary. It started with an injured wild fowl given to the monk by the villagers, then peacocks came attracted by the calls of by then rather large colony of wild fowl. An injured wild boar stumbled in to the monastery and the monks cared for him until he could be released back into the forest. The next day he came back followed by his family group of about 10 animals. By now a countless number of boar find shelter in the monastery. Villagers also started to bring in unwanted pets: four species of deer moved in, followed by buffalo, cow, horses, wild goat and gibbons. All these animals are roaming the grounds of the monastery freely.

Wat Rajabopit Sathitmahasimaram Rajaworavihara - Special Temple in Bangkok

2007-07-27T00:41:00.000-07:00

Wat Rajabopit Sathitmaha Simaram Rajaworavihara (Wat Rajabopit) is situated between Fuang Nakhon Road and Usadang Road ( Khlong Ku Muang Derm Road ) near the Ministry of Interior in Bangkok. King Rama V ordered its construction in 1969.

The phra ubosot, phra chedi and phra vihara have curving walls that are covered with beautiful glazed colored tiles. The doors to the phra ubosot and phra vihara are inlaid with mother of pearl, the work of master craftsmen.

In the temple there are eight stone pillars each surmounted with a covering of the Buddhist Wheel of Law (Dhammachak), one of each of the eight directions, hence the name "Mahasimaram" (Great Boundary Pillars). On the gate shutters of the Thailand temple are carved soldier of the Corps of Royal Pages attired in European - style uniforms instead of traditional dresses. On the entering of temple compound of the front entrance the phra ubosot, phra chedi and phra vihara can be seen raised above ground level on a platform.

The exterior of the phra ubosot is constructed in the Thai style. Inside the design is partly European and partly Thai. It was decorated by M.C. Prawit Chumsai. On the gable there is carving of a seven - headed elephant holding up a tray containing a royal seal. The doors are inlaid with mother of pearl design depicting the various royal decorations, the craftsmenship of Prince Thiwakornwongprawat.

With in temple ground on the Usdang Road side there is a royal cemetery which was ordered constructed by King Rama V to make merit for his mother, wives, sons and daughters. It consists of several repositories for royal remains in the form of chedi, prang, and European - style building. These are set in a small garden, which is open to the public.

[Source from; dhammathai.org]

Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan - Population Temple of Thailand

2007-06-19T04:17:00.000-07:00

Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan is located on the west bank of the Bang Pakong River in Amphoe Muang approximately two kilometers south of Sala Mang (the City Hall). This monastery houses Phra Phutthasothon or as commonly called by the local folk "Luang Pho Sothon".

This is a very sacred Buddha image and is most revered by the people. The image in the attitude of meditation having a lap width of 165 centimeters and 198 centimeters in height.

Wat Khao Phra Baht is the Best Famous Temple in Pattaya

2007-04-24T23:29:00.000-07:00

Khao (Mountain) Phra Bat is the hill to the south of Pattaya, the famous beach town in Thailand. I have to admit that I had a very negative feeling about even driving to Pattaya, after all the bad things I had heard. So, visiting this temple on the first attempt was so full with negative energy, that I just had to come back in the following week. After all, this was a temple with a replica of Buddha's footprint! It's not a big temple but it still has many beautiful statues, a mondop building and some great views over the bay of Pattaya.

Wat Khaow Phra Baht on bank of PhraTumnak mountain. It's Temple without Buddhist Monks. It 's just Shrine for people in Pattaya City to pray and worship. At Wat Phrabaht position the Foot Mark of Buddha, it's age about 200 years.

Moreover there is an acient Buddha Image of Au-thong art style which were invited respectfully from Suphanburi. There are many Buddha Images You can find here. As Wat Phrabaht is located on top of Mountain you can have view of Pattaya Bay from here,IT is not far from south Pattaya just couple minutes to reach here.

[Source from; chimburi.com]

Wat Chalong Special Temple in Phuket

2007-04-10T00:23:00.000-07:00

This Buddhist temple located on the southern outskirts of Phuket Town, is greatly respected by the local Buddhist community. Considered the most beautiful on the island, it contains a gilt statue of Luang Por Cham, the monk who became a hero when he helped quell the Chinese Coolie rebellion of 1876, during the reign of King Rama V. The wat also has a statuette of the famous abbot Luang Por Gluam.

Wat Chalong is Phuket’s most important Buddhist temple and is the biggest and most ornate of Phuket’s 29 Buddhist monasteries. The architecture is typical of wats found throughout Thailand. Wat Chalong is associated with the revered monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, both of whom were famous for there work in herbal medicine and tending to the injured. During the tin miners’ rebellion of 1876 they mobilized aid for the injured on both sides. They also mediated in the rebellion, bringing the warring parties together to resolve their dispute. Statues honoring them stand in the sermon hall (viharn). Many Thais come here to be blessed by the monks and receive a good luck charm in the form of a string tied around the wrist, which they believe protects them from injury and illness.

Wat Chalong, Phuket
Address; Bypass Road, off Vichit Songkram Road, Chalong, Phuket, Thailand

Wat Jedee Luang (Wat Chedi Luang) at Chiang Mai

2007-03-26T02:17:00.000-07:00

Wat Jedee Luang on Prapokklao Road is the side of a formerly massive pagoda that was unfortunately destroyed in the great earthquake of 1545. The Jedee Luang temple was originally constructed in 1401 by the orders of King Saeng Muang Ma (Thailand). In 1454, reigning King Tilo-Garaj enlarged the jedee to a height of 86 meters.

After the earthquake, the jedee lay in ruin until 1991, when it was reconstructed at a cost of several million Baht. The reconstructed jedee was finished in 1992, and it is every as impressive as it was when it was first built.

[Source from; chiangmai-chiangrai.com]

Ancient Temple is Wat Dusidaram Woravihara in Bangkok

2007-03-05T19:06:00.000-08:00

Wat Dusidaram Woravihara ( Wat Dusid ) was founded in the Ayutthaya period and The Thai temple is located on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, near the mouth of the Bangkok Noi Canal and the approach to the Pin Klao Bridge on the Thoburi side. It was an ancient temple called originally Wat Sao Prakhon. Somdej Phra Chao Boromawongther Kromluang Srisunthornthep, a son of King Rama I, had the temple reestablished. Krom Phrarajawang Boworn Mahasenanurak renovated the temple in 1913 and rename it Wat Dusidaram . A small, neighboring temple which was abandoned, called Wat Phumarin Rajapaksi, was also incorporated into Wat Dusidaram.

In the reign of King Rama VI, Somdet Krom Phraya Vachirayanvarorod ordered Wat Bhumin rajpaksi, which had only one monk , to merge with Wat dusidaram. In World War II, Wat Dusidaram and wat Noithongyu were damaged in an air raid, so there temples were also merged.

Wat Mangkon Kamalawat - Known in Chinese as Wat Leng Nui Yee, Bangkok

2007-02-18T20:32:00.000-08:00

At the heart of Bangkok's Chinatown is the Chinese-Buddhist temple of Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, known in Chinese as Wat Leng Nui Yee. The temple is the center of festivities during important festivals such as Chinese new years and the vegetarian festival.

You enter the temple through a passageway off Charoen Krung Road. The temple is a low rambling structure with the requisite dragons playing with a pearl on the roof. Inside you'll find a labyrinth of courtyards and passages connecting various alters to Buddha as well as Taoist deities. All the while, the smoke of hundreds, perhaps thousands, of sticks of incense fills and swirls about the courtyards.

If you make your way back far enough, you'll find one courtyard with cases full of standing gilded Buddha images on either side.

Outside of the temple building is a small chedi, as well as a place to burn paper offerings for ancestors. Unfortunately, the temple's forecourt is often filled with parked cars.

Getting There

A visit to the temple should be park of a general walking tour of Chinatown. The district is easily accessible by boat. Take the Chaophraya Express Boat to Ratchawong pier. From the pier, walk up Ratchawong road to Charoen Krung, turn right and Wat Mangkol Kamalawat will be on your left a little more than one block down.

[Source : thailandforvisitors.com]

Makha Bucha Day - The Full Moon Day of The 3rd Lunar Month

2007-01-18T22:53:00.000-08:00

It was 9 full months after the Buddha got the Enlightenment, on the full moon day of 6th lunar month, 45 years before the Buddhist era. On the full moon day of the 3rd lunar month, Makha, of the year, 4 special events happened:

1. There were 1,250 Sangha followers, that came to see the Buddha that evening without any schedule.

2. All of them were "Arhantas', the Enlightened One, and all of them were ordained by the Buddha himself.

3. The Buddha gave those Arhantas the principles of the Buddhism, called "The Ovadhapatimokha". Those principles are: - To cease from all evil, - To do what is good, - To cleanse one's mind;

4. It was the full moon day.

At this time in the evolution of Buddhism and Buddhist principles in Thailand, it is important to understand how the majority of Thai people view Buddha and the Buddhist philosophy.

[Source : watthaidc.org]

How to Visit a Temple in Thailand

2007-01-12T03:35:00.000-08:00

Take special care in learning the proper ritual for visiting a temple in Thailand.

Instructions

Step 1: Buy incense or a flower from a stand outside the temple.
Step 2: Approach the temple door and remove your shoes.
Step 3: Enter the temple without speaking.
Step 4: Be careful not to touch any of the statues or the symbols once inside.
Step 5: Place your offering, either incense or flower, at the base of the Buddha statue.
Step 6: Remain silent.

Tips and Warnings

-The Thai word for temple is "wat."
-The Thai people consider sleeveless shirts, shorts and short skirts inappropriate. Always cover up before entering the temple.

Source : .ehow.com

Wat Suthat Thepwararam Bangkok, Thailand

2007-01-04T19:56:00.000-08:00

Its a bit off the tourist trail these days, but Wat Suthat is still a very important temple to the Thais. This is the home of the Brahmin priest who oversee royal rituals such as the ploughing ceremony held at the traditional beginning of the growing season.

In front of the temple is the huge chinese-red frame of the giant swing. The swing was the center of an annual ceremony where teams of young men would try to swing high enough to retrieve a sack of gold tied to a pole about 75 feet (25 meters) in the air. So many men died in the attempt that the ceremony was banned in the 1930s.
Cloister

Wat Suthat was built in the early 19th century to house the huge 25-foot tall Phra Sri Sakyamuni Buddha statue, which was bought all the way from Sukhothai by boat. The Wiharn housing the Buddha image sits in a large cloister. The outer wall of the cloister is lined with more than 150 Buddha images. The statues are in various states of repair, since each is "adopted" by a patron to make merit for a departed loved one, who may in fact be interred in the base or the wall next to the Buddha.

Be sure to have a look at the doors to the cloister in the middle of each of the four walls. They are painted and gilded with quite colorful scenes from the Ramakien.

The courtyard between the Buddha gallery and the wiharn is full of chinese statues reported to have been shipped from China as ballast in rice boats during the reign of Bangkok's first king.

The wiharn is one of Bangkok's tallest due to the need to house the huge Buddha statue. The walls are painted with murals depicting the last 24 lives of Buddha. The columns are also painted with murals showing the early life of Bangkok. Check out the column nearest the door on the right. It depicts scenes of the early westerners who came to Siam.

On a large median in the road running next to Wat Suthat is a small Vishnu shrine.

Wat Suthat is not far from the Golden Mount and Loha Prasat in Wat Ratchanada. See our walking tour which takes in all of these temples and the sights around them.

[Source : thailandforvisitors.com]

Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount), Bangkok

2006-12-30T20:33:00.000-08:00

The grubby yellow hill crowned with a gleaming gold chedi is also known as the Golden Mount, or 'Phu Khao Thong'. It rises within the compound of Wat Saket, an unusual temple that houses Buddha relics within its 58-metre-high chedi surmounted by a golden cupola. Built by King Rama I just outside the new city walls, the late-18th century temple served as the capital's crematorium. During the following 100 years, the temple became the dumping ground for some 60,000 plague victims.

The Golden Mount was added to the compound in the early 19th century, when King Rama III built a huge chedi which collapsed into a hill of rubble. Buddhist belief holds that religious buildings cannot be destroyed, and many years later King Rama V topped the debris with another chedi in which he placed relics, believed by some to be the Buddha's teeth.

Visit the temple and then climb the 318 steps to the cupola. Watch religious visitors place flowers near the date of the month they find auspicious and light candles. As you climb to the top, enjoy magnificent panoramic views of Bangkok. The cupola is covered with small golden squares reflecting in the sun and giving the place the name of Golden Mount.

Wat Saket hosts an enormous annual temple fair in the first week of November, when the mount is illuminated with coloured lanterns and the compound turns into a massive fun fair. Admission to the chedi costs 10 baht.

Open: Daily 8:00 - 21:00
Location: Between Boriphat Road and Lan Luang Road

Source : bangkok.com

Tamboon Sai Baat in New Year Day

2006-12-25T03:23:00.000-08:00

Tamboen Sai Baat

Thai. To perform a good deed or to make merit (tamboon) by giving an offering into (sai) the alms bowl (baat) of a Buddhist monk. Sometimes in temples several alms bowls are arranged in a long row in which small coins, usually 25 satang (fig.) are offered. This form of tamboon may occur in combination with Buddha images as in the phra prajamwan system (fig.). See also sai baat.

Tamboon

Thais. Het brengen van offers of het verrichten van goede daden voor religieuze doeleinden, waardoor men verdiensten wil verwerven, hetzij voor zichzelf of voor derden. Dit kunnen offerandes zijn in tempels (fig.), het voeden van bedelmonniken (sai baat), tijdelijk verblijf in een tempel, een gebed (fig.), enz. Soms ook -als in het Engels- tamboon getranscribeerd.

Sai Baat

Thai. 'Offering into an alms bowl'. Making merit by putting food into the alms bowl of Buddhist monks. See also tamboon sai baat (fig.) and bintabaat.

Baat

Thais. De bedelkom van een monnik. Bedelkommmen worden reeds gedurende meer dan 2.500 jaar gebruikt voor de bintabaat of bedelronde van monniken in de vroege ochtend, een traditie die tot op heden voortduurt. Het produktieproces van een bedelkom is erg tijdsrovend waardoor er slechts enkelen per dag kunnen worden vervaardigd. Ze worden samengesteld uit acht stukken metaal, die de acht spaken van de dhammachakka, het boeddhistische Wiel der Wet, en het Achtvoudige Pad vertegenwoordigen. Een eerste metalen strip wordt in een ronde vorm geslaan om de rand van de kom te maken. Vervolgens worden drie stukken in een bolle kruisvorm geslaan om het skelet te vormen, waarna vier driehoekige stukjes de zijkanten vervolledigen. De bedelkom wordt vervolgens in een oven aaneengesmeden en gevormd. Nadien wordt ze herhaaldelijk glad gewreven en verwarmd om het oppervlak glanzend te maken. Bedelkommen worden tegenwoordig nog steeds vervaardigd in Bangkok's Ban Baat of 'Bedelkom Dorp', in de achterstraatjes van Bamrung Meuang Road in het district Pomprap Sattruphai.

Source : thailex.info

Sanam Luang or Royal Field in Bangkok, Thailand

2006-12-18T03:19:00.000-08:00

Sometimes known as the Royal Park or Royal Field, Sanam Luang is right in the centre of the Rattanakosin (Old City) part of Bangkok. A large oval-shaped park, Sanam Luang has a number of royal connections and is where the King appears during his annual 5 December birthday celebrations. Royal cremations are also held here and it is also the venue for the annual Royal Ploughing Ceremony. From February to May you can see Kite Flying at the park. There are often competitions for the most ornate and most beautiful kites. It's very interesting to walk around Sanam Luang in the early evening you can see fortune tellers (Mor Doo), people selling a variety of wares, and even masseurs offering traditional massage in the open!

Details: Sanam Luang is right in the centre of Bangkok's main tourist attractions and you can see many of them from the park nearly Wat Phra Kaew and The Grand Palace. It is about 15 minutes walk to Khao San Road from the park.

How to get there: There are no BTS or MRT stations in this area. Probably the fastest way to get there is Express Boat stopping at Banglampoo Pier.

The following buses will get you there:

Bus number: 3, 15, 30, 32, 43, 44, 59, 64, 70, 80, 123, 201
Air-conditioned bus number: 6, 7, 12, 39, 44

Source : discoverythailand.com

Wat Phra Rattanasatsadaram - Temple of the Emerald Buddha

2006-12-08T03:43:00.000-08:00

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat phra Rattanasatsadaram (Wat Phra Kaew) is the most sacred structure in the Kingdom and the repository of the spirit for all the Thai people. The history of the Emerald Buddha itself dates back more than 600 years and also represents the struggle of the Thai people to maintain their independence from foreign aggressors.

When King Rama I established Bangkok, or Rattanakosin, as his capital in 1782 he added the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in the eastern section of the Royal Grand Palace in order to install the Emerald Buddha. During its two hundred year history the Chapel had undergone several renovations, restorations, and additions. The Royal Chapel thus incorporates no less than two centuries of Rattanakosin craftsmanship which is an expression of the essential entity of the Thai people.

A visit to Bangkok is not complete without a visit to this very Important Temple(Wat). We will show you the many spectacular buildings along with a history of the Emerald Buddha itself which we hope will give you a better understanding of Thai history and its people. The related stories listed below are just some of the many spectacular building and monuments inside the grounds of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha(Wat Phra Kaew).

Souce : .bangkokmag.infothai.com

Wat Phra Kaew - First Impressions in Bangkok

2006-11-24T18:10:00.000-08:00

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok Thailand, A lot of first time visitors aren't quite sure what to expect when first arriving in the capital of exotic Thailand, and some may be disappointed by their first impressions on the way into town - endless high rise buildings, busy expressway flyovers and billboards of western companies advertising in English. Yet while Bangkok has undoubtedly embraced westernization and modernization, you only need to look a little under the surface to see that it remains undeniably a Thai place at heart. In between the skyscrapers and sophisticated shopping centers there's still the remarkable Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace , the Temple of the Dawn and many more. Traditions live on too: don't be surprised, for example, to find a large dedicated spirit house built for good luck alongside almost every major building, or to see files of Buddhist monks making their early morning alms round - and it's surely one of the only major cities in the world where seeing an elephant paraded round the streets hardly even ranks as being unusual.

Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok Thailand, Amidst all of this is what many find one of Asia's most interesting and exciting cities, but it does have it's fair share of problems also - not least of which is the heat. Due to it's location in the tropics, Bangkok's average day time temperature is rarely much below 30 degrees centigrade at any time of year and the night time temperature is not much cooler. The maximum temperature can occasionally top 40 degrees during the hot season in April / May, when it is, not surprisingly, the low season for tourism. Despite the temperature, it is not all that sunny in Bangkok and most days are grey and overcast - meaning many visitors are surprised when they first walk outside Bangkok airport and discover that what appeared to be a cold, cloudy day is actually uncomfortably hot.

The heat, combined with the humidity and pollution, makes walking a sizable distance in Bangkok almost impossible, and breaking into a sweat after only a couple of hundred meters almost inevitable. The Thai people themselves will rarely walk any significant distance and there's a very large number of cars, buses, taxis and tuk-tuks to help them get about.

Source : into-asia.com

Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, Bangkok

2006-11-09T02:32:00.000-08:00

Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, is one of Bangkok's best know landmark. It stands on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thon Buri. Wat Arun is best seen from the opposite bank of the river; it glistens in the sunlight during the day and stands dark and noble at dawn or dusk. A visit to the beautiful, peaceful monastery complex surrounding the familiar towers is very worth-while. These towers, the "Phra Prang," although best known, the only part of Wat Arun. It also contains narrow lanes; elegant, old white buildings; shrines, pools of turtles; and two fine giants, " Yuk Wat Jaeng," mortal enemies of the " Yuk Wat Po" across the river.

The central balcony commands an impressive view of Bangkok across the river. From here one can see the Grand palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha(Wat Phra Kaew) and the spacious Wat Pho.

Wat Arun figures in one of Thailand's most colorful festival, the Royal Tod Kathin. Then His Majesty the King travels down the river in a procession of Royal barges to present new robes to the monks after their three-month lent period.

LOCATION: West bank of the Chao Phraya River.
OPENING HOURS: It's open daily from 8.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
ADMISSION: Admission is 30 baht for foreigners and free for Thai people.

Source : watarun.org

When You go to Bangkok, Don't miss The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

2006-11-02T03:47:00.000-08:00

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew really are places you must visit while you are in Bangkok. Both have considerable historical significance and are extremely beautiful places to see.

The Grand Palace was built in 1782 by King Rama I who established Bangkok as Thailand’s new capital. The palace was to be bigger and grander than palaces built in the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya eras to underscore the significance of the change of capital. The result was a palace of jewels and gold and splendour the like never seen before in Thailand. The Grand Palace remained the Royal Family’s official residence from 1782 to 1946. The last king to live there was King Chulalongkorn.

Wat Phra Kaew was built to house the Emerald Buddha which was returned to Thailand after Thailand’s the capture of Vientiane in 1778. The Emerald Buddha is the most important representation of the Buddha in Thai Buddhism. To pray before the Emerald Buddha is to make merit, and although this is an important place on any visitor’s itinerary, it is important to recognise that this is a place of worship and should be respected as such.

Details: Admission fee is 200 Baht for foreigners, but Thais are admitted free (remember – to Thais this is a place of worship, not a tourist attraction!). The fee also includes tickets to the Coin Pavillion, Vimanmek Mansion and Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall, all of which are worth seeing in their own right. The site is open 8:30-12:00 and 13:00-15:30.

How to get there: The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are in the Banglamphu area of Bangkok – the ‘Old City’. To get there you can take a taxi, which from the centre of Bangkok will cost about 80 Baht.

Bus Number: 1, 35, 44,47, 123, 201
Air-conditioned Bus Number: 2, 3, 7, 8, 12, 25, 39, 44, 82

Source : discoverythailand.com

Wat Phra Pathom Chedi, Nakhon Pathom Thailand

2006-10-27T04:06:00.000-07:00

On coming toward the Nakhon Pathom city, the first glimpse of the towering Phra Pathom Chedi is overpowering. lt is one of the largest pagodas in the world and in Thailand, by far the most holy of all Buddhist structures. The original pagoda was constructed more than 2,000 years ago in the stupa design of an upside down bowl shape. A replica of the original pagoda stands south of the present one. ln the year 1853, King Rama lV commanded the reconstruction of a new huge pagoda covering the original one. lt has a height of 120.45 metres and a total length of 234,75 metres around the base. A nearby museum contains a wealth of priceless relics and many of the stone carvings found in and around Nakhon Pathom. At the four points of the compass in the outer courtyard are four Wiharas (halls) containing images of Buddha in various postures.

Location: Nakhon Pathom, Central Thailand.

Source : thaibuddhist.com

Glossary of Thai Temple Terms (Part 2)

2006-10-24T02:29:00.000-07:00

Naga
A Naga is a representation of a mystical serpent that according to the holy scripts sheltered the Buddha while he was meditating. In temple architecture, it runs down the edge of the roof, or, especially in Lanna (North of Thailand) temples, flanks the staircase that ascends to the Viharn or Bot. In sculptures, it is depicted sheltering the head of the Buddha with its own. Beautiful representations of Nagas are known from Khmer art, as found in the Khmer ruins in the Northeast of Thailand.

Nagas on a Viharn in Wat Chiang Mun, Chiang Mai

Prang

A Prang is an Ayuthayan or Khmer-style Chedi that is high and slim and looks like a vertical ear corn. Many of the Chedis in Wat Phra Kaew or Wat Po in Bangkok are Prangs.

Prangs in Wat Mahathat, Petchaburi

Sala

A Sala is an open-sided pavillion. Some Viharns are built in this style.

Viharn

A Viharn is a sermon hall. It is usually the busiest building in a Wat and open to everyone (provided the visitor behaves according to the temple etiquette!: you must be properly dressed, take off your shoes before entering a building and behave quietly) Just like the Bots, Viharns hold an altar and one or several Buddha images.

Wat

A Wat is a Thai Buddhist temple or monastery. In most cases it is not just one building, but a collection of buildings, shrines, and monuments within a courtyard that is enclosed by a wall.

Source : inm-asiaguides.com

Glossary of Thai Temple Terms (Part 1)

2006-10-17T04:24:00.000-07:00

Bot
The Bot (also called Ubosoth) is the ordination hall of a Wat. It is the place where new monks take their vows. You can recognize a building as a Bot by the six boundary stones (Bai Sema) that define the limits of its sanctuary. Bots are usually open only to the monks. Inside are always an altar and one or several Buddha images.

Chedi

A Chedi (a different term would be stupa or pagoda) is a domed edifice, often quite tall, under which relics of the Buddha or revered religious teachers are buried.

Burmese Style Chedi in Wat Phra That Haripunchai in Lamphun

Chofah

Chofahs are the bird-like decorations on the end of the temple roofs. If you visit the Museum of the Emerald Buddha near the Grand Palace in Bangkok you can see examples of chofahs displayed in glass cases in the ground floor and have a closer look at them. Chofahs are often decorated with little bells that tinkle in the wind.

A Temple Roof in Wat Chalong, Phuket Island - You can clearly see the Chofahs

Ho Trai

The Ho Trai (also transcripted as "Ho Phra") is the library of the Wat. It is usually a very small, highly decorated building. In the Central Plains it often sits on columns in a pond . The holy scripts and sacred manuscripts of the Wat are kept inside.

Mondop
A Mondop (also called Mandapa) is a baldachin structure that has in some temples been erected above the library with the sacred Buddhist scripts.

Continue Part 2

Source : inm-asiaguides.com

Wat Benchamabophit Bangkok (The Marble Temple)

2006-10-12T03:27:00.000-07:00

Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, this temple is on Sri Ayutthaya Road near the Chitralada Palace. The temple is well-known because its main building was constructed during the reign of King Rama V, as the source of religious heritage for the future generations of Thais. It employs European ecclesiastic details, such as stained glass windows, and contains a superb cloister collection of bronze Buddha images. The main shrine was originally intended to house a highly sacred and revered Budddha image known as Phra Buddha Shinaraja, which at the time was located in the province of Phitsanulok (approximately 300 km north of Bangkok). But when construction of the Marble Temple was complete, a replicate of the Phra Buddha Shinaraja was created and enshrined in the temple instead, due to that the people of Phitsanulok and northern Thailand were unwilling to part with their Buddha image, the main source of their religious inspiration.

The Marble Temple, built entirely out of white marble as its name suggests, manifests the devotion that Thai people have for Buddhism. The architectural and engineering detail put in to the construction of the Wat Benchamabophit is rare by modern standards.

The best time to visit this temple is early in the morning when Buddhist monks are chanting inside the chapel. The interior of the main building is magnificently decorated with cross beams of lacquer and gold. A large collection of Bronze Buddha lines the walls of the spacious inner courtyard. Once the visitor enters the temple grounds, he or she will experience a sensation of tranquility and peace.

Location: Wat Benchamabophit is on the corner of Si Ayutthaya Road and Rama V Road.
Getting There: Bus Nos. 2 (air-con)
Opening Hours: Open to visitors until 5:00 P.M. every day
Admission: 30 baht
Telephone: 02 - 2812501

Source : hellosiam.com

Wat Pho - Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok

2006-09-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

Wat Pho or with it's full name Wat Phrachetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Raja Wora Mahavihara is Bangkok's largest temple. A giant reclining Buddha, 45 meters long represents the moment in which Buddha enters Nirvana. The size of this Buddha can only be experienced by walking around it. The feet of the statue feature 108 small images of representing Buddhist impressions. It is the enormous head of the Buddha which I like most.

Wat Pho is also famous as Thailand's first university, and is center for traditional Thai masage - the rich, famous and powerful have all been known to come here. Inscribed on stone in the walls of Wat Pho are all that was known about Thai massage dating from the reign of King Rama III (most previous texts were lost when the Burmese destroyed Ayuthaya)

Wat Pho is an important Bangkok's landmark in the Rattanakosin Area. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Buddhist fine arts and the existing Thai intellect which has descended from ancient times, taken as an immortal carrier's of knowledge. The monastery is opened daily from 08:00 to 17:00, with the admission fee of 20 baht.

Important Wat of Thailand

2006-09-22T23:05:00.000-07:00

Thailand has many Wat, a temple in the Thai language. Wat is much more than just a place of worship. Thai temple is much more than just a monastery. It influences life, culture and education and the Wat is very much a community center.

Temples in Bangkok and Thonburi - Temples are not typically the first thing which comes to mind when talking about a trip to Bangkok. Within this huge city there are over 430 temples though, which are very worthwhile to be visited. Wat Phra Kaew, the Royal Temple within the Palace, is the most important and most impressive one. It is also the one with the most tourists and, at least outside the temple, also the one with the most dubious characters who want to sell you things and who want to drive you onto a never-return shopping trip.

Temples in Central Thailand - Central Thailand is a huge area, which is often ignored by travelers. One of the reasons might be that it is not covered in many of the guide books, except for the major sights, of course. This might be a blessing on one side because the area has not changed too much by tourism or the (negative) influence of the west.

Temples in Northern Thailand - Thailand's North was our first trip with our own car. Thus independent from any public transportation and therefore without much interference with other tourists. Equipped with a huge variety of maps in Thai and English as well as information from the web we went mainly on small roads and highways and stopped at every place, which looked interesting.

Temples in Southern Thailand - There are more than 100 Buddhist temples in the Deep South but only a few monks, as many quit the monk hood due to fears for their safety. Militants now target their attacks on Buddhist monks and temples to deepen the religious divide in the region.

Temples in North Eastern Thailand - Isan is a special place. Something we never understood, as we consider temples as a place for Buddhists to gather and pray. Instead the Buddha images were locked away behind closed doors.

[Source from; chimburi.com]

Transportation to Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok

2006-09-17T21:40:00.000-07:00

Temple of the Emerald Buddha have other name is called Wat Phrasrirattana Sasadaram (Wat Phra Kaew). Wat Phra Keaw have a comfortable transportation.

By Bus - 1, 3, 6, 9, 15, 19, 25, 30, 32, 33, 39, 43, 44, 47, 53, 59, 60, 64, 65, 70, 80, 82, 91, 123, 201, 203
By Air-Bus - 1, 6, 7, 8, 12, 25, 38, 39, 44, 59, 524
By Water - Tha Chang

Open everyday; 8.30 AM - 11.30 AM and 01.00 PM - 03.30 PM

Guardian Statue at the Emerald Buddha Temple in Bangkok

2006-09-11T04:28:00.000-07:00

Giant Guardian of Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok is stucco about height 6 metre. Which compose of many painted pottery, it’s so beautiful.

The Guardian stand is over plinth with stay at south ascent of Phra-Tep-Bi-dorn Palace. Wat Phra Kaew has 12 giant Guardians. Guardian of the Emerald Buddha Temple created King’s Rama III and creator by Luang Tep Rod Ja Na. Guardian of Wat Phra Kaew has featured same Guardian of Wat Arun.

Welcome to The Emerald Buddha Temple in Bangkok, Thailand

Ubosot of the Emerald Buddha in Wat Phra Kaew

2006-09-06T23:10:00.000-07:00

The ubosot (ordination hall) housing the Emerald Buddha is actually the only original building in the Wat Phra Kaew. It was built at the same time as the temple in 1783 to 1785. Like most of the buildings in the compound, the ubosot's exterior is finished in colored mirror tiles and gilt carving. The eaves are lined with bronze bells which tinkle is the slightest breeze.

Entry to the chapel is on the east side. The doors are inlaid with mother-of-pearl designs from the Ramakian, the same epic which illustrates the gallery. Inside, the Emerald Buddha sits high up on a gilt alter. The image, which was carved from a solid piece of green jadite, not emerald, is 66 centimeters (26 inches) tall and about 48 centimeters (19 inches) across at the lap. The image has three golden 'costumes' which are changed with the seasons by His Majesty the King or one of his children.

On either side of the high alter are screens which create a private area for the royal family when visiting the temple in Bangkok. In front of the Emerald Buddha are several other Buddha images placed there by the kings of the dynasty. The two lowest images were placed there by the present king. One in 1987 on his sixtieth birthday, and the other in 1988 when he became the longest reigning Thai monarch.

Note; that you must remove your shoes to enter the ubosot of the Emerald Buddha, and no photography is allowed inside the chapel.

[Source from; thailandforvisitors.com]

Mural Painting inside Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok, Thaland

2006-09-01T02:32:00.000-07:00

Mural painting inside the ubosoth in Wat Phra Kaew. The scene of the Buddhist cosmology (the Three `Worlds of Desire, Form and Non-Form) on the western wall behind the Emerald Buddha and that of the Enlightenment of the Buddha on the eastern, or front wall, were painted in the reign of' King Rama 1. At that time there probably was portrayed on the tipper part of the lateral walls the assembly of celestial beings who came to worship the main Buddha image in the ubosoth, a feature typical of the late Ayudhya and early Bangkok painting styles.

The walls between the window's were decorated with scenes from the Life of the Buddha. King Rama ll. had the lateral walls repainted. Above the window's on both the north and the south were depicted scenes from the Life of the Buddha whereas between the windows various scenes from the jataka (previous lives of the Buddha) were shown. On the depicted and the southern side shows a riverine procession. These paintings still exist inside Wat Phra Kaew,Bangkok.

The mural painting inside were newly painted as mentioned above except for the scenes of the Buddhist cosmology and the Enlightenment of the Buddha, respectively, on the western and eastern walls. The golden throne of the Emerald Buddha in Thailand was heightened, as noted previously, by an intermediary base. The king had the superstructure of the galleries around the temple changed and the whole story of the Ramakien (the Thai version of the Hindu epic, the Ramayana) repainted.

The White Viharn of King Rama I was demolished, and the Viharn Yod, with its superstructure in the form of a Thai crown ornamented with multi-colored pieces of glazed terra-cotta, was built in its place. In Wat Phra Kaew;The mother-of-pearl inlaid door of this structure dates back to 1753 in the reign of King Boromkot of the late Ayudhya period.

[Source from; cs.ait.ac.th]

Why the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is special?

2006-08-22T04:34:00.000-07:00

Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is an exuberantly colored religious compound built inside the Royal Palace in Bangkok, Thailand.The temple's architecture is visually striking.

The temple's largest and most important building is the Bot (loosely translated as "house of meditation"). Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok is Thailand's most sacred shrine and the king's personal chapel, but everyone is welcome to visit it.

Within the Bot resides the world famous Emerald Buddha (actually made of green jade, not emerald). This 500-year-old holy statue is perched so high above the Bot's golden altar and is so small (only 66 centimeters or 26 inches high) that you could easily miss it if you didn't know where to look.

Original Info: hillmanwonders.com

Highlights in the Grand Palace Complex, Bangkok, Thailand

2006-08-10T23:58:00.000-07:00

1. Boromabiman Hall, built by King Rama VI and every king since has lived here at some time.

2. Amarinda Hall, the original residence of King Rama I and the Hall of Justice. Nowadays it's impressive interior is used for ceremonial occasions and coronations. It contains the antique throne, used before the Western style one presently in use.

3. Grand Palace Hall or Chakri Maha Prasat. Visitors are allowed inside the spacious European style reception room.

This building has not been used for royal residence since the mysterious death of King Rama VIII (the older brother of the current King), found shot dead in his room in 1946.

The reverence for the monarchy in Thailand means that, even today, this remains a completely taboo subject to talk publicly about in Thailand.

4. The impressive Dusit Hall, rated as perhaps the finest architectural building in this style.

5. The Museum, which has information on the restoration of the Grand Palace, scale models of the Wat and Palace and numerous Buddha images.

Labels are in Thai only, but there are free English tours available frequently. Entrance is 50B.

Info:into-asia.com

Royal Pantheon in Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok, Thailand

2006-08-04T03:47:00.000-07:00

The Royal Pantheon in Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok was constructed during the reign of King Rama IV in 1855. He intended to place the Emerald Buddha here but the building was not completed until after his death.

His successor, King Rama V, considered the building too small to accommodate the congregation at royal ceremonies so the Emerald Buddha was not placed in this building.

A small gilt stupa belonging to King Rama IV was placed there instead.

In 1903 the gilt stupa and part of the edifice were destroyed by fire. King Rama VI repaired the building as the Royal Pantheon of the Chakri Dynasty.

He then installed life size statues of the five preceding kings, those of King Rama VI, VII, and VIII were installed later.

The Royal Pantheon is open to the public each year on April the 6th, the anniversary of the founding of the Chakri Dynasty, to pay homage to their past sovereigns.

Royal Pantheon is called Prasat Phra Thep Bidon in Thailand which means "The Shrine of the celestial Ancestors".
Related articles:
Giant, the Wat Phra Kaew temple, Bangkok
Phra Srirattana Pagoda
Montheintham Buddha Image Hall, Wat Phra Kaew
Info: infothai.com

Phra Rabiang (The Gallery) in Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok, Thailand

2006-07-30T21:38:00.000-07:00

The Phra Rabiang (The Gallery) in Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of Emerald Buddha), Bangkok was constructed by King Rama I in the 18th century and is noted for it's murals depicting the entire Ramkian (the Thai version of the Ramayana epic).

The verses telling the story of the paintings, 4,984 all together, are inscribed in marble slabs embedded on the four sides of each pillar supporting the gallery roof.

The original murals were painted when the Phra Rabiang (The Gallery) was first built, however because rapid of deterioration caused by dampness, the murals today in Wat Phra Kaew reflect little of the art of the First Reign.

Frequent restorations were carried out during their two centuries of existence mainly during the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Reigns and it is not known whether the murals were simply retouched or entirely repainted.

The most recent restoration of the Phra Rabiang (The Gallery) in Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok, Thailand was started in 1965 and took seven years to complete.

Modern technology was used in an attempt to prevent future peeling and deterioration of the murals.

Site Map of Wat Phra Kaew - Bangkok - Thailand

2006-07-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

1. Hall of Temple (Place for The Emerald Buddha)
2. 12 of Raai Pavillion
3. Phra Kantaracha House
4. The Bell Tower
5. Racha Pongsa Nusorn House
6. Phra Phothithat Pimarn House
7. Racha Gorama Nusorn House
8. The Hermit Image
9. Phra Thep Bhidorn house
10. 2 Pagoda
11. Phra Mondhob
12. Phra Srirattana Pagoda
13. Model of Angkor Wat
14. King’s symbolic sequence 1, 2, 3 Monument
15. King’s symbolic sequence 4 Monument
16. King’s symbolic sequence 5 Monument
17. King’s symbolic sequence 6, 7, 8, 9 Monument
18. Phra Montheindhamma House
19. Viharn Yod
20. Phra Naga House
21. The stupa
22. The Balcony; Mural wall painting, Wat Phra Kaew

Two Golden Phra Chedis - Wat Phra Kaew - Bangkok

2006-07-05T16:45:00.000-07:00

Two Golden Phra Chedis, Wat Phra Kaew (Chedi mean pagoda) situated on the Phaithee terrace in front of Phra thep Bidorn house were constructed by King Rama 1 in honor of his father (southern pagoda) and mother (northern pagoda)

Two Golden Phra Chedis, Wat Phra Kaew are exactly the same design and size, having a square base with triple indented corners. The structures are entirely covered with copper sheets, painted with lacquer and covered with gold leaf.

The Golden Phra Chedis are placeed on an octagonal base lined with marble adorned with a cross design. Above the base are 20 plaster giants and monkeys decorated with colored glass who appear to be lifting the chedi. A monkey figure is placed at the center of each side of the base.

Above that is a three-level singha base (lion design base). Next there is a lotus flower designed base on which the chedis stand. The apex of the chedi consists of a group of 9 lotus flower design levels, which are topped with a hollow spire covered with gold leaf.

The Two Golden Phra Chedis, Wat Phra Kaew were constructed in the First Reign at the edge of the pool to the east of the original Monthientham Buddha Image Hall.

King Mongkut (King Rama 4) ordered the construction of the Phra Phuthaprang Prasat at that site. The chedis were therefore moved to the front, south and north of the Phra Phuthaprang Prasat.

King Rama 5 had the chedis covered with copper sheets and painted with lacquer and covered with gold leaf. He also had the demons and monkeys added. King Rama 6 ordered the chedis removed to their present location.

Source: Unknown

The Emerald Buddha - Most Respect Buddha in Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok, Thailand

2006-06-27T21:14:00.000-07:00

Chance of life for respect The Emerald Buddha

The Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaew Morakot or Phra Bhuddha Maha Mani Ratana Patimakorn) situated in hall of Temple Wat Phra Kaew, The Emerald Buddha was carving from jade with 66 centimeter tall. The Emerald Buddha was transferred from Chiang Rai. On holy ceremonies every body respect and invite The Emerald Buddha to be a principal.

The Emerald Buddha a holy Symbol for Buddhist

Buddhist give respect to The Emerald Buddha from many centuries when all area was separated by small Kingdoms. Ancient story tells long time ago, in Chiang Rai there was thunder on pagoda then found the image of Buddha made from plaster which was brought to the hall. 2-3 months later the plaster had crack, then show the glitter of jade. After that monks peal the plaster and face The Emerald Buddha. After then The Emerald Buddha brought happiness to all.

And transfer to Lampang 32 years continue to Chiang Mai 84 years then transfer to Laos for 225 years and return to Thailand again by more than 220 years.

It is a belief that if The Emerald Buddha situated on any place, that zone will get happiness and brilliance.

Process of Royal Apparel Tradition

This tradition will happen 3 times a year

1. Summer season

: Royal apparel by the crown with diamond and gold brace.

2. Raining season

: Royal apparel by robe of a Buddhist monk made from gold, Cover the head by gold.

3. Winter season

: Royal apparel by gold fablic cover the shoulder and cover the head by gold.

Ta Chang Restaurant - Leading Restaurant near Wat Phra Kaew Bangkok

2006-06-20T02:38:00.000-07:00

Bangkok restaurant Ta Chang is one of Bangkok's leading restaurants serving Thai food and Western cuisine.

Located in central Bangkok, close to Koh San Road, Ta Chang restaurant has been firmly established by top London restaurant chef Sam Wickson who now moves the Bangkok restaurant scene to a new level.

The menu at Ta Chang mixes traditional Thai cuisine with contempory English food, offering choices to suite all tastes.

No other Bangkok restuarant offers such a diverse menu at such high quality.

Ta Chang restaurant is the ideal place for a romantic dinner, business lunch or birthday party, and is one of central Bangkok's few restaurants with an outside alfresco dining terrace.

Restaurant reservations can be made at all times at +66 (0) 223 1527 or 0 9182 7550

Ta Chang Restaurant: 5 Pra Atit Rd, Prabarommabarajwang, Pranakorn, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

Info:tachang.com

Must Visit - Grand Palace Complex Bangkok Thailand

2006-06-15T13:47:00.000-07:00

The Grand Palace total area is including Wat Phra Kaew temple all was 218,400 sq. metres and is surrounded by walls (Ramayana mural wall painting) built in 1783. The length of the four walls totals 1900 metres.

Within these walls are situated the government offices and the Chapel Royal of the Emerald Buddha besides the royal residences.

When Siam (Thailand) restored law and order after the fall of Ayutthaya the monarch lived in Thonburi on the other side of the river.

King Rama I, immediately on ascending the throne (Bangkok), moved the center of administration to this side of the Chao Phraya river; and, after erecting public monuments such as fortifications and monasteries, built a palace to serve not only as his residence but also his offices - the various ministries, only one of which remains in the palace walls.

The palace came to be known as the “Grand Palace”, in which the earliest edifices contemporary with the foundation of Bangkok were the two groups of residences named the Dusit-Mahaprasard and the Mahamontien.

Time after time….the Grand Palace is the most attraction in Bangkok, Thailand

Visit Bangkok, Visit Wat Phra Kaew

2006-06-02T14:37:00.000-07:00

Temple of The Emerald Budha or Phrasrirattana Sasadaram Temple was Well known as Wat Phra Kaew (Phra Kaew Temple).

The most important temple of Thailand. Located within the Grand Palace, beside Sanam Luang. Established at the same time of Rattanakosin by the King Rama 1(more than 220 years ago). Same period of established Bangkok as capital.

Wat Phra Kaew is Beautiful of architecture and fine art. The wall inside covered by mural Paint with story from the Ramakian (Thai literature).

Around the temple decorate by variety of sculpture, Such as the Giant who protect the door and Ubchao doll that import from China.

Inside Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok.

The Emerald BuddhaPhra Kaew Morakot or Phra Bhuddha Maha Mani Ratana Patimakorn) situated in hall of a temple, it’s was carving from jade with 66 centimetre tall.

It’s transfer from Chiang Rai. When have ceremony always respect invite The Emerald Buddha to be a principal.

Phrasrirattana Pagoda

The big gold pagoda established by the King Rama 4 for keep Buddha's relics. It’s covered by glitter mosaic and floor by marble.

Phra Mondhob

Situated on north of the hall. It’s established replace the old building that was burn out. This place for keep Golden Buddhist Scriptures (Tripitaka).Phra Thep Bhidorn house

This building is the place for keep wax of Chakkri’s king.

Actually it’s open for visit only 7 days per years that was on Chakkri’s day, Songkran day(3), Chatramongkol day, King Rama 5’s day and the birth day of King Rama 9 (present king)

If you still didn’t visit Wat Phra Kaew that mean you still didn’t visit Bangkok.

General information Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok

Work Hour :8.30-11.30 and 13.00-15.00 (open daily)
Guide service : Contact at the Bangkok, Wat Phra Kaew office
Remark : Polite dress (Buddha respect) and possibility to change from the front (free).

Gate No.2, Na Wua Gate, Wat Phra Kaew

2006-04-07T19:27:00.000-07:00

The Gate No.2, Na Wua Gate, Wat Phra Kaew in on the eastern side of the temple, directly opposite the Hall of Temple, or chapel. A pair of bronze oxen, used in the Plowing Ceremony in the First Reign, stand near to the gate. Passing through the gate enables visitors to view the 6 spires, out of a total of 8, which stand outside the gallery.

Murals along both sides ofthe entrance depict Suriyaphob (a giant), Nilpanan (a monkey) and Ongkot (a monkey). In front of the gate, inside the temple, two 6-metre tall plaster giants beautifully decorated with glazed colored tiles, stand guard. They are Mangkornkan, on the left, and Virulhok, on the right.

Mangkornkan

A giant with a green body, was the son of Phya Khon, ruler of Pomkhal City and friend of Thosakan. He was Thoraphee, an ungrateful buffalo, that had been reincarnated as a giant and who was cursed by Phra Isuan to die by Phra Ram's arrow. Finally, Mangkornkan was indeed killed by Phra Ram's Phrommat arrow.

Gate No.1, Koeysadet (Front) Gate, Wat Phra Kaew

2006-03-29T00:19:00.000-08:00

The Koeysadet (Front) Gate, on the eastern side of the temple, is in front of Phrathep Bhidorn House and opposite the Grand Palace's Sawadsopha Gate. This is an important gate built in the Fourth Reign. The gate has a ramp for mounting elephants and an undressing pavillion. The top of the gates a pointed crown.

The murals on the walls of the gate depict Thao Sahasadecha(giant), Nilaphat (monkey), Hanuman (a monkey) and Thosakan (giant). In front of the gate, inside the temple, 2 6-metre tall plaster giants beautifully decorated with glazed colored tiles, stand guard. they are Suriyaphob, on the left, and Indrachit, on the right.

Suriyaphob

A giant with a bright red body, was the son of Thao Chakrawad, ruler of krung Maliwan and friend of Thosakan. he holds the Mekhaphat spear, which was given to him as a weapon by Phra Isuan. the spear was very potent and withstand it. According to legend the spear was thrown at Phra Satarut and made him faint. Suriyaphob, the giant was slain by Phra Phrot using his Phrammat arrow

Indrachit

A giant with a green body, was the beloved son of Thosakan and Naang Montho. His name was originally "Ronaphak Kumarn" because of his potent powers. Because ho defeated Phra Indra, his name was changed to Indrachit. He was given sacred weapons by Phra Isuan, Brahma, and Phra Narai including the Phrammat, Nagabat and Vishnupanam arrows. finally Indrachit, like MangkornKan before him was killed by Phra Ram's Phrommat arrow.

Khantharat Buddha Image Hall, Wat Phra Kaew

2006-03-13T19:40:00.000-08:00

Khantharat Buddha Image Hall, Wat Phra Kaew; situated on the same small terrace as Phra Mondhop Yod Prang, is a hall to house the Khantharat Buddha Image. It is situated in front of the Hall of Temple near the gallery walls.

The hall house the Khantharat Buddha Image, an important Buddha image connected with the Plowing Ceremony. It was cast by order of King Rama 1 in 1783. King Rama 4 consequently ordered the image to be gilded and a large diamond embedded in the Buddha's forehead as a Phra Unalome (hair on forehead between eyebrowns). This hall also houses an image of Phra Phirunsart.

Khantharat Buddha Image Hall is a small, rectangular. Thai-style building on a terrace, supported by patt base (lotus design base). The entrance to the hall is by the northern portico, opposite the Hall of Temple. 5 marble steps lead up to the terrace and 3 more up to the Buddha image Hall. the balustrade is in the form of a naga, or serpent. the capitals of the columns on the terrace are sculpted lions, in the Chinese style. The balusters are made of glazed ceramics and there are 2 tall lantern posts.

Montheintham Buddha Image Hall, Wat Phra Kaew

2006-02-28T19:00:00.000-08:00

Montheintham Buddha Image Hall, Wat Phra Kaew is located to the east, opposite the first of the 6 spires which lies outside the gallery walls. The hall lies beside the Phra Thep Bhidorn house and houses 2 beautiful pearl-inlaid Tripitaka bookcases. The bookcase contain several volumns of the Tripitaka. The building is also used for preaching sermons on Buddhist holy days and sundays, beginning at 8 am. and 11 am. respectively.

Montheintham Buddha Image Hall, Wat Phra Kaew is a rectangular building with a 4 level roof. The gable is decorated with a representation of Phra Brahma astride a phoenix and above, Phra Indra mounted on Erawan, the three-headed elephant. Below the gable are figures of 5 Thephanom or angles. The front of the building, between the columns is decorated with wood carvings. The columns have triple indented corners and the capitals are decorated with lotus flower design. The entrance door is on the western side, opposite of the Viharn Yod buddha Image Hall and is made of giltstucco and shaped like a Mondhop. The door panels are inlaid with mother of pearl. They were made by craftsmen in the reign of King Boromakot for Wat Borom Phutharam in Ayutthaya. A verandah runs around the entire building. The windows are set in alcoves, decorated with wood carvings at the top. The interior in decorated with wood carvings of Hanuman, the symbol of the Front Palace. The inside of the hall is decorated in a special Thai design, the decorations depict celestial beings and groups of angles, male and female.

Montheintham Buddha Image Hall, Wat Phra Kaew was constructed in the first Reign by Krom Phra Ratchawang Boworn Mahasurasinghanat. The style is that of the early Bangkok-late Ayutthaya period. The building was intended to house the Buddhist scriptures (Tripitaka) that were used to teach monks and novices.

Phaithee Terrace, Wat Phra Kaew

2006-02-19T19:33:00.000-08:00

A Phaithee is a terrace, or base, that supports several buildings. In The Emerald Buddha Temple, there are 2 Phaitee Terraces; the large terrace adjacent to the hall of temple, which supports the Phra Srirattana Pagoda, The Phra Mondhob and The Phra Thep Bhidorn house; and the small Phaithee at the front of the hall of temple which supports the Phra Khantharat Buddha Image Hall and the Phra Mondhop Yod Prang.

The large Phaithee Terrace, Wat Phra Kaew is rectangular in shape. The terrace is raised 3 steps and is surrounded by a balustrade and decorated with porcelain. There are 6 terraces. There is a Mondhop shaped door arch on the western side of the Phaithee Terrace, Wat Phra Kaew. The tip of the arch is decorated with cup porcelain, and the roof is covered by green tiles with yellow tiles at the borders.

Originally, the Phaithee Terrace, Wat Phra Kaew was a 3 level prataksin terrace of the Phra Mondhob. King Rama 4 ordered 2 levels of this terrace to be filled up and expanded to create the Phaithee Terrace, Wat Phra Kaew in preparation for the construction of the Phra Phuthaprang Prasat and Phra Sri Ratana Chedi. At the same time the balustrades and 6 door arches were also constructed.

In the 5th Reign the stone floor of the Phaithee Terrace, Wat Phra Kaew was replaced and several objects were added, including cast animal figures, the Chada (many-tier umbrella) and brass lamp posts and 3 small bussabokes housing the insignias of the Kings of Ratanakosin.

In the 6th Reign, the Phra Phuthaprang Prasat was repaired and transformed into the Prasat Phra Thep Bhidorn. The door arches at the top of the mondhop were removed, leaving only 2 arches, on the southern and western sidea. The Phanom Mak, or betel trays, were also added atop the walls.

Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn ordered the construction of another small bussaboke to house the insignias of King Rama 6 to the present reign.

Phra Phothithat Phimarn, Wat Phra Kaew

2006-02-16T00:03:00.000-08:00

Stand behind The Hermit (the previous post); Phra Phothithat Phimarn, Wat Phra Kaew was constructed by King Rama 4 as a mondop shaped at the top like a crown and decorated with porcelain cups and saucers arranged into the shapes of flowers and leaves. The ciling and columns within the mondop are decorated in the western style and gilded. Inside there is another ancient prang or spire, containing a relic of the Buddha obtained from Buddha Gaya in India. the relic was brought from the north while King Rama 4 was still a monk in the Third Reign.

Phra Phothithat Phimarn, Wat Phra Kaew is located st the western end of The Hall of temple between Hor Ratchapongsanusorn and Hor Ratchakoramanusorn Buddha Image Halls.

The Hermit, Wat Phra Kaew

2006-02-14T01:41:00.000-08:00

On entering The Emerald Buddha Temple by the only gate permitted, the Her Gate, on the western side of the temple, the first thing that the visitor notices is a hermit (ruesri) sitting on a rock base with his knee drawn up. In front of him is a mortal for crushing medicines and behind him is the Phra Phothithat Phimarn.

The image of The Hermit, Wat Phra Kaew

Called Cheewaka Komarapach, was cast in bronze in the Third Reign, He was a hermit doctor experienced in preparing traditional herbal medicines and the mortar was his symbol

Sala Rai, Wat Phra Kaew

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Sala Rai, Wat Phra Kaew are open sided pavillions traditionally used as places where religious text could be read to the people during festivals and holy days. there are 12 Sala Rai placed around the Hall of Temple, 4 pavillions each at the northern and southern sides and two each at the front and rear. Although originally designed to provide people who had come to hear the monks chanting with a resting place, they are now mainly used by tourists as a resting place.

All 12 pavillions are similar in design and size, topped with a Thai-style roof and covered with blue and orange tiles. The gable is decorated with a Thephanom on a white glass background and surrounded by traditional Thai motifs on a blue glass background. The roof is adorned with a Chor Fa, Bai Raka, Hang Hong and Nag Sadung(Thai name. Carved wooden props help support the roof on all sides. The celling of the pavillions are covered with plaster. The floors are laid with marble at both levels.

Sala Rai, Wat Phra Kaew History

The Sala Rai were constructed in the First Reign. King Chulalongkorn (King Rama 5) ordered new ones constructed to replace the originals and these were again and new ones built to replace them. It is these pavillions that can be seen today. These same pavillions were renovated in the original style to mark the capital's bicentennial in the present reign.

Source Book : The Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace

The Bell Tower, Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok

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Stand on south of the Hall of temple, Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok.

History of The Bell

For history of this Bell have 2 presume

1. This Bell was found when dig down for make a swamp in Rakhang Khositaram Temple, Bangkok. Because of this bell have great sound then King Rama 1 transfer to the Bell Tower, Wat Phra Kaew.

2. King Rama 1 be kind enough to mold especially for Wat Phra Kaew.

History of The Tower

The original on King Rama 1 period was not have the architect record

Time after time when King Rama 4 period, the King was reconstruct by presume that set on the same place and pull down the old one but not finished until King Rama 5 period on 100 anniversaly Bangkok.

And fix again on King Rama 7 period by copy from the original.

Giant, the Wat Phra Kaew temple, Bangkok

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The giant stand beside the gate to protect the temple from all devil and ghost.

All Giants around Wat Phra Kaew was turn his face to The hall of Temple for protect The Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaew Morakot or Phra Bhuddha Maha Mani Ratana Patimakorn). All giants around was 12, come from The Ramayana scene (same story on Mural wall painting).

All 12 Giants made from cement; decorated by mosaic and mirror. Hanging the bat, protect the gate. All was height about 6 Metres (suppose the giants was established on King Rama 2 period)

Srisassada Gate; Grand Palace entrance, Wat Phra Kaew

1. Tossa Girithorn Giant

; Soil Swan or dark pot color, end of nose was trunk. He was son of Ravana and Elephant.

2. Tossa Giriwan Giant

; the Tossa Kirithorn’s twin, end of nose was trunk too.

Front of the hall of temple, Wat Phra Kaew

3. Wirunhok Giant

; Kab color, irritable and be quick-tempered. Govern a country Unthakarn City.

4. Mangkornkan Giant

; King of Giant, green color. He was son of Phraya Korn and Ratchadasoon, king of Romekal City.

Back of the hall of temple, Wat Phra Kaew

5. Jakkawatr Giant

; white color, Govern a country Maliwan. He was Ravana Close friend.

6. Ussakan Mala Giant

; purple color. He was Ravana Close friend too.

The gate in front of Phra Thep Bhidorn house, Wat Phra Kaew

7. Suriyaphop Giant

; red color. Mangkornkan (no. 4)’s brother, he have a magic glass that burn all he point.

8. Inthrachit Giant

; green color. He was son of Ravana and Miss Montho. In the pass he was called Ronnapak, who get arrow from God Siva. Can transfigure to God Indra. After time he was named Inthrachit because he can get win the God Indra.

The north gate of Phra Srirattana Pagoda, Wat Phra Kaew

9. Wirun Jambang Giant

; ink color (white with black). He was son of Phaya Tooht from Jaruk, chonnaboht. Ravana’s nephew, riding the black horse with red mouth (nillphahu) that can disappear through horse and whom riding.

10. Maiyarap Giant

; King of Giant, light purple color. The third king of water land. Known the magic to charming forces.

The south gate of Phra Srirattana Pagoda, Wat Phra Kaew

11. Sahassa decha Giant

; King of Giant, white color. King of Pangtarn City, have 1,000 faces and 2,000 hands. His bat can point the top to alive and point the end to kill.

12. Ravana Giant

; King of Giant, green color. Have 10 faces and 20 hands, in the life before this time he was named Nonthuk who was killed by Rama.

Ubchao doll, Wat Phra Kaew

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China rock sculpture was call Ubchao doll. It's numerous in Wat Phra Kaew more than 100 pieces.

In the past time when Thai and China commercial together. Departure was carrying the heavy objects such as wood, rice, animal skin and tin. When back from China we bought the soft object such as fablic and tea leaf. The junk was unbalance when face the strom so should have some load that call Ubchao. Then take China rock sculpture and the stone to load. So we call them Ubchao following the way of duty.When arrive to Thailand the load was disadvantage. Then take China rock sculpture to decorate the temple. Wat Phra Kaew also decorate by Ubchao doll too.

Kind of Ubchao doll

Luntun
Human big sculpture. Dress fully as government official.

Animal
1. Imagine animals
2. General animals

Objects
Such as pagoda, dragon column, pot.

Mural wall painting, Wat Phra Kaew

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General Information

Mural wall painting in Wat Phra Kaew has 178 screen. Painting by Thai literature Ramayana story (Ramakian). The Ramayana’s structure from India Compose again by King Rama 1 for collecting and completely all Ramayana story from Ayuthaya period.

Actually the balcony was around shrine, pagoda, hall of a temple for walk with lighted candles in hand around a temple. Especially for Wat Phra Kaew the balcony was around all building to separate with the Grand Palace times with hall of a temple and Monthien Dham hall. But not have a record for exactly time, when rebuild Monthien Dham hall because of burned the balcony was extend in the north like a present. That mean the balcony was establishe twice or one time when extend the temple. King Rama 1 be kind enough to paint the mural in Ramayana story around the wall.

Renovate

King Rama 3
Reproduct all mural and renovated balcony.

King Rama 4
Extend balcony and floor by tile.

King Rama 5
Fix the balcony and reproduct mural

King Rama 7
When celebrate kingdom 150 anniversary. Renovate balcony with new technique, cement and steel for prevent humid. Construct the fence in front of mural painting and renovate the floor.

King Rama 9 (present)
Renovate and painting on arc of balcony. For the roof fix and paint with gold stencil. Use new technique to modify the mural. Repaint on the damage mural following the original.

Tips

Ramayana story around the wall start from north door turn to the west.

Phra Thep Bhidorn house, Wat Phra Kaew

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Phrathep Bhidorn House or Phra Buddha Prang castle is the place for keep wax of Chakkri’s king. Phrathep Bhidorn House stand in the east of Phra Mondhob, straight to Sawadisopha gate (Grand Palace gate).

History of Phra Thep Bhidorn house

King Rama 4
Phrathep Bhidorn House established by King Rama 4 in 1855 and finished on 1882 (27 yaers). Folowing Ayuthaya Gold Castle. The tile was import from China since King Rama 3 (first the King plan to decorate hall of Arunrachawararam temple) but not finished, the king was pass away

King Rama 5
In King Rama 5 times, continue construct on Phrathep Bhidorn House. Roof inside, wall paint, floor by marble, decorate mirror and renovate outside too. And finished when celebrate kingdom 100 anniversary. But the size was not enough to make ceremony if stand The Emerald Buddha (following King Rama 4 royal thought) but replace by respectfully engage Kalaithong pagoda (that in the pass stand at the right of Phra Buddha Monthien) to be a principle.

In the late of King Rama 5 have an short on electrical circuit then burn all roof decorate and Kalaithong pagoda. While the burn King Rama 5 ask to remove windows and doors to Rachabaphitr’s temple. Then have a renovate and continue in King Rama 6 period.

King Rama 6
After renovated King Rama 6 establish the wax of Chakkri’s king to stand here. And change the name from Phra Buddha Prang castle to Phra Thep Bhidorn house.

King Rama 7
In King Rama 7 established the wax mold of King Rama 6 and respectfully engage to stand in Phra Thep Bhidorn house. And renovate the building following original for celebrate kingdom 150 anniversary.

King Rama 8
In King Rama 8 established the wax mold of King Rama 7 but not finished the respect process, the king was pass away.

King Rama 9
King Rama 9 continue all process and established the wax mold of King Rama 8 then respectfully engage wax of King Rama 7 and King Ramam 8 to stand in Phra Thep Bhidorn house.When celebrate kingdom 200 anniversary have renovate Phra Thep Bhidorn house again following original.

Phra Thep Bhidorn house will open for visit only 7 days a years that was on Chakkri’s day, Songkran day (3), Chatramongkol day, King Rama 5’s day and the birth day of King Rama 9 (present king).

Phra Mondhob, Wat Phra Kaew

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Situated inside the Wat Phra Kaew.It’s established replace the old building that was burn out.

Phra Mondhob Architecture

Around the base stand by bronze lion at 4 corner and a pair per door. Bronze lion stand on cement tray with pedestal. The bronze lion bring from Cambodia a pair and mold another 10.

Inside floor by silver mat. The center stand the big Thai style pearl cabinet in Mondhop shape for keep Golden Buddhist Scriptures (Tripitaka).

Phra Mondhob Renovate

King Rama 3
Big renovate, presume that this restore following most of the original just change some detail.

King Rama 4
Established Phrasrirattana Pagoda at back and Phra Thep Bhidorn house at front of Phra Mondhob. Then floor 3 building in same level that cover 2 layer of base (original has 3 base), now all was stand on Paitee base. Protect by stone wall (call glass wall). At Phra Mondhob rebuilt the roof and inside floor by silver mat.

King Rama 5
When celebrate kingdom 100 aniversaly. Renovate outside and inside, fix the structure and decorative but still underconstruction.

King Rama 6
The renovate continue from King Rama 5 period, change the roof decorate from gold with vermilion to Thai lacquer with yellow mirror.

King Rama 7
Renovate all building following the original and fix the Thai painting.

King Rama 9
Renovate all building following the original and fix the Thai painting too.

Phra Srirattana Pagoda

2005-10-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

Phra Srirattana Pagoda is inside the Wat Phra Kaew near Sanam Luang. The big gold Pagoda established by King Rama 4 and continue by King Rama 5 for keep Buddha's relics.

Phrasrirattana Pagoda covered by glitter gold mosaic, interior was painting and floor by marble. It's have 4 doors (4 direction) all decorated by Thai symbolic art.

When celebrate Phrasrirattana Pagoda 150 anniversaly in King Rama 7 period have a renovate on surface, fix the mosaic. And next renovate was in King Rama 9 (present) but still follow the same all.

Phrasrirattana Pagoda architecture

Created in a Lanka shape following Phra Jedi Sam Aong from Phrasrisanphet Temple's pagoda (Ayuthaya province). That was a cement pagoda covered by glitter gold mosaic. Inside have space for stand the small pagoda that keep Buddha's relics.

Phrasrirattana Pagoda perform by Paitee base, layer with up-down lotus for support the bell. Upper is square throne with the column support the ring of glass lotus 20 layer.

Arc of doors (4 direction) is a sharp curve, upper is a Thai sculpture. The doors made from wood coated by gold and mirror, in a flower pattern with 3 colors (red, green, silver). Upper is a ventilator and the frame was carve in Thai dragons shape.