Buddhist Monasteries/Temples
Thailand is known as a Buddhist country primarily because about 95% of the populations here sacredly follow Buddhism. The religion exerts great influence in the life of Thais. The Buddhist influence on the life of the local population is quite visible. Wherever you may go in this country, from every nook and cranny this religion will make itself visible in one form or the other. With being a Buddhist county, it is not possible that it does not have Buddhist attractions. The country is embellished with grand temples, magnificent monasteries, and splendid stupas, statues that will hold your attention and won’t let you leave.
Over the centuries travelers have visited Thailand for its glorious Buddhist sites and temples. The most significant destinations in terms of having a Buddhist tour are Bangkok, the capital and Ayutthaya, the ancient capital. Both the cities are replete with Buddhist attractions. With each visit these two destinations give you a better insight of Buddhism in Thailand. Even if you are not a Buddhist follower you can visit the destinations for their architectural and artistic brilliance, behold the tranquil charm of the temples or just observe the influence of this great religion. It will only give you a sense of peace and spiritual satisfaction from within.
Buddhist Attractions in Bangkok
Wat Phra Kaew: Located in the premises of the Grand palace, Wat Phra Kaew is a must visit temple in Bangkok. Over 100 vibrant hued edifices, golden spires and dazzling mosaics makes it n enchanting temple sight to behold. However, the highlight of the place is the tiny emerald Buddha which seems to be giving blessings from above as it is situated high at the roof.
Wat Pho
Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm Rajwaramahaviharn is the original name given to this grand Buddha temple. The best part of the temple is the 46 m tall and 15 high gold-plated figure of reclining Buddha
Wat Suthat Thepwararam, Wat Ratchanaddaram, Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram and Wat Arun are other prominent temples present in Bangkok.
Buddhist Attractions in Ayutthaya
Wat Phra Si Sanphet: It is the largest temple in Ayutthaya whose attraction lies in its Thai-style stupas. A 6-meter tall image of Buddha plated with 340 kg of gold used to be the most alluring fascination of the place but it has been reduced to ruins as the Burmese in attempt to melt and steal the gold put the statue on fire.
Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopitah:
The temple houses the large bronze cast Buddha image which affirms to be the major attraction of the apart from the charming architecture.
Other grand temple attractions are:
Wat Thammikarat, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Mahathat, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phu Khao Thong, Wat Cheung Tha, Wat Nah Phra Meru, Wat Phanancherng, Wat Yai Chaimongkon and Wat Lokayasutharam.