It is only but just to continue these chronicles of my solo adventures into the world. To recollect these past events help me appreciate where I've been and to look forward with hope for my future travels despite the pandemic. Recalling this special trip I had in the past always brings me happy memories. And as what I usually tell people, my first solo trip was by far the most happiest experience I've ever done in my life.
So let's now dive into my memories. We are now at Wat Pho Temple, one of the most oldest and largest wats in Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, Thailand. I arrived at the Temple around 2:00pm after I came from a half day tour at Ayutthaya. I lined up at the entrance to pay my ticket which costs 100 Baht at that time (2018). The temple as the sign says opens everyday from 8:30am - 6:30pm. And as tourists, one needs to abide to the rules and regulations imposed as a sign of respect. Just like here, they simply asked visitors to (1) dress appropriately, (2) not to climb on Buddha Statues, and (3) be humble when taking photos.
As I started my way inside, I immediately saw this miniature of the Buddhist temple complex. I didn't expect for the place to be this big. So I have to manage my time to see most of the buildings and structures. I decided to see first the temple located at the far most corner where the Reclining Buddha lies and from there I've let my feet led the way.
Entering the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Viharn Phranorn), I saw the feet first. It was massively tall - 3m high and 4.5m wide. At that time, they were doing some restoration on some parts of the statue. I worked my way along the hallway and saw these bronze bowls with coins inside. Apparently, there are 108 (significant number in Buddhism) of them where you can donate coins for good fortune.
And just like that I saw Buddha's head and body, all I could say was Wow! Literally, my jaw dropped in amazement seeing the gold plated statue. To be honest, one would definitely be in awe because of its immense beauty and massive size. This buddha image named Phra Phuttha Saiyat is 46m long and 15m high. The head resting on its hand and two box pillows.
Going around, the intricate details on the "pillow-boxes" was amazing. I thought at first gems or crystals were attached but they were actually glass mosaics which were really beautifully designed. Speaking of intricate details, the interior walls are also decorated with mural paintings from top to bottom. Seeing up-close, my mind was just wondering how many painters they employed for such endeavor.
Second part to visit was the Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn where 4 large chedis or stupas are found. The green tiled stupa houses the remnants of a Buddha image from Ayutthaya. Two stupas (white tiled and yellow tiled) contains the remnants of Rama III and Rama II. And the blue tiled Chedi has Rama IV. Powerful kings of their time. I also stayed long here and checked the architectural finesse of these chedis.
Heading to the Phra Ubosot or the ordination hall, I passed by the Phra Rabiang or the double cloisters containing around 400 Buddha images.
Above is the Phra Ubosot, the most sacred place inside the complex. Let me show you why...
Yes! Inside was a different ambiance. Silent, solemn, and mesmerizing. On the farthest part is a gold plated Buddha image named Phra Buddha Theva Patimakorn sitting on a gold and crystal plated high pedestal. On the left, monks were praying and chanting. I was on the back part together with other visitors - locals were praying and foreigners were observing. We had to remove our shoes before entering and was asked to stay silent throughout our stay.
Overall, my afternoon tour around the Wat Pho complex was awesome. Its mesmerizing to know such powerful kings before could simply build such iconic structures not knowing along the future became would become an important part of their country's history and culture.
I'm ending this story with other photos I took from the place. Enjoy...
Mermaid by day, Witch by night. Dive into Clara's world of bliss as she ventures out into the universe and travel to awesome destinations. Join her as she take on the road to self-discovery and limitless possibilities.
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