Bangkok’s glistening temples are among its many wonders. More than their beauty and mystery, they are essential to the Buddhist ideology that reflects the Thai culture.
Also known as “wats,” these temples are not simply tourist destinations but symbols of Thai people’s faith.
Cebu Pacific and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently flew selected journalists and influencers from Davao City and Cebu City to Bangkok to experience its wonders.
Part of the itinerary was the visit to the temples of Wat Pho and the Sanctuary of Truth.
Wat Pho’s grounds are large and offer lots of space for strolling and are ideal for contemplating life.
There are more than 90 chedis, also known as stupas, each featuring rich traditional Buddhist art, sculpture, architecture, and over 1,000 Buddha images on display.
Inside the other wall of the temple, we basked in the immense glory of the giant reclining Buddha.
Before entering the temple, we were told to remove our shoes and put them in a green eco-bag that they provided.
Upon entering, we were welcomed by this enormous 46-meter-long and 15-meter-high reclining Buddha, which left us in awe.
Seeing it in person is breathtaking.
Those who value spirituality, art, and culture should make time to visit the Sanctuary of Truth when in the “City of Smiles.” Looking from the outside, its grandeur is mesmerizing and on the inside its gloriousness is overwhelming.
What is more astonishing is it’s a wooden temple built without nails. It showcases detailed carvings and mythological figures from different cultures.
There are guides in the area that are ready help you understand the deeper significance of the carvings, which manifest the ideologies they believe in.
And the finely crafted wooden structure provides a special experience for adventurous travelers.
After the majestic temples, we had a short trip to the Laser Buddha, also known as the Buddha Mountain or Khao Chi Chan in Na Chom Thian, Amphoe Sattahip, about 20 kilometers from Central Pattaya.
It is a large golden Buddha image carved into a limestone hill.
Despite the scorching heat, we made sure to take a snap of the 109-meter by 70-meter image of a sitting Buddha.
According to our guide, Bass, the image was created in 1996 using computer software and laser technology and then filled in with gold to honor the 50th anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s coronation.
The architectural details and other features of these temples and places make more than Instagrammable photos that’s why they are must-visits when in Bangkok.
