Wat Po is probably one of the most famous, and most visited temples in Bangkok. Everyone wants to take a look at the colossal ,150 feet long and 59 feet, high statue of the reclining Buddha. The Buddha is the largest in Thailand, and is plated with gold and decorated with mother-of-pearl inlay on the eyes and soles of feet, which are decorated with 108 auspicious signs of a true Buddha.
The wiharn(prayer hall) housing the magnificent Buddha is barley large enough, which makes it impossible to take a photo of the full statue. I loved the face of the Buddha, it is meant to show the serene look of the Buddha as he attains nirvana , the total peace of mind.
Wat Po itself is said to be older than the city of Bangkok, founded in the 17th century, expanded in 1832 and restored in 1982. It is also the birthplace of the Thai massage since it was the center of education for traditional Thai medicine.It houses more than one thousand Buddha images, and many beautiful pagodas. It is a beautiful temple and well worth the visit.
Comments (9)
What a tiny prayer hall for such a massive statue! Is the Buddha reclining on one side, with head propped on one hand? (Just trying to get a sense of the position.) The face is wonderfully serene, with just the hint of a smile, very beautiful.
Posted by Anne | August 19, 2009 6:16 AM
Posted on August 19, 2009 06:16
Hi Anne,
Yes, the hall is very small, and the Buddha is reclining on one side with head propped on one hand.
Posted by candi | August 19, 2009 6:21 AM
Posted on August 19, 2009 06:21
Hi Candi, how fascinating. You did a great job taking photos. I noticed a little little girl next to the Buddha's feet in one of your photos and saw how really impressively large this famous Buddha is. I also loved the Buddha's expression. The temple is very beautiful. I enjoyed also reading about the many other facts like the one thousand Buddhas. How great that you were able to see this beautiful Buddha in person.
Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful photos.
Posted by Kathy (Trekcapri) | August 19, 2009 6:48 AM
Posted on August 19, 2009 06:48
Wow, what a Buddha! I love the expression on his face but I really love those symbols on his feet. You did a good job taking photos of him - the perspective in those first two looks really cool.
Posted by Annie | August 19, 2009 7:05 AM
Posted on August 19, 2009 07:05
Candi, your photos are stunning. This looks so beautiful and exotic.
Posted by sandrac | August 19, 2009 1:22 PM
Posted on August 19, 2009 13:22
It's a beautiful place with all the special pagodas...really lovely and magical too. Thank you for your photographs. I feel like I travel to the most exotic places when I visit your blog. I agree his repose and look is one of serenity and peace.
Posted by Barb Cabot | August 20, 2009 7:29 AM
Posted on August 20, 2009 07:29
Fabulous photos, Candi! It feels as if the prayer hall is under a beautiful golden glow coming from the massive and gorgeous Buddha.
Posted by Maria I. | August 21, 2009 6:20 PM
Posted on August 21, 2009 18:20
Amazing Buddha and amazing photos! I have to say WOW again! Just incredible!
I am all caught up now :) Yay! You really did experience many amazing experiences during your two week trip. I am so glad you were able to go!
So what is happening with Maui and your job?
Posted by girasoli | August 24, 2009 3:20 AM
Posted on August 24, 2009 03:20
girasoli, thanks for taking the time to read my posts on Thailand, it was an amazing trip,I will go back and answer your questions, and so you don't have to revisit them all, I'll e-mail you:)
We are leaving Maui in less than a week, and to be honest, I am very thrilled about it, I will do a post soon:)
Posted by candi | August 24, 2009 12:38 PM
Posted on August 24, 2009 12:38