We would have to say that our trip to Thailand was just getting better and better.  One day we were exploring the ancient temples of Ayutthaya.  The next day, we found ourselves riding on one of the famous Chao Phraya Express Boats to visit the attractions at the different pier stops.  First, we decided to visit the popular Grand Palace of Thailand.  We were amazed at the intricate carvings and proud structures.  The great thing about visiting the Grand Palace is that visitors are treated to not only one but two major tourist attractions.  Located right within reach of the palace is Wat Phra Kaew or what is also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Yes, both the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha can be found within the same compound.  One can easily get lost within the vast grounds and lose track of time.  The entire compound was packed with tourists from all over the world that it took us a while before we finally mastered the art of avoiding people and have our photos taken decently even in highly populated spots.

Since we were already done exploring the Grand Palace, we decided to check out Wat Phra Kaew.  Wat Phra Kaew or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is known to Thais as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram. According to our guide, this particular temple is one of the most important and most sacred of all Thai temples.  So, as with any other temple, visitors are expected to conduct themselves properly and give due respect.  Tourists who visit must wear long pants, blouses or shirts with sleeves and closed shoes.  Visitors who are not properly dressed can borrow clothes at the compound’s entrance for a deposit of 100 Baht per item of clothing.

Wat Phra Kaew is a must-see for all visitors of Thailand because it houses the rather small Emerald Buddha.  It is small because it measures a mere 75 centimeters.  It is installed on a pedestal in the front part of the temple high above the heads of visitors and those who come to worship.  Our tour guide explained that this Emerald Buddha is not exactly made of Emerald.  It is made of a Green Jade.  The Buddha has its own colorful history.  Our guide said that the Buddha image had been the cause of a number of wars but it ended up in Bangkok back in 1782.

Another fascinating thing that we learned about this Buddha image was that the Buddha image wears a robe which is changed three times a year.  The image is so precious that it is clothed by the King himself.  A diamond encrusted golden robe is worn by the Buddha image during the hot season.  A gold robe is worn by the Buddha image during the cold season and a gilded monk’s robe is worn by the image during the rainy season.

The construction of the main temple started when King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke (Rama 1) moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok back in 1785.  This temple is different from other temples as no living quarters for monks was constructed.  The Central Ubosoth is the main building and this is where the Emerald Buddha is securely housed.  The main hall of the temple has three doors but only the King and Queen of Thailand are allowed to enter using the door at the center.

As for us, we followed the directional signs leading inside the main hall.  While in line, we noticed that some people were dipping lotus flowers in a big pot of water then proceeded to shower themselves with the water from the pot using the lotus flower.  Our guide said that we should give it a try and make a wish while doing so.  We gamely followed our guide’s instructions and repeated it several times as we had several wishes!

When we got inside the temple, we tried to get a good look at the Emerald Buddha. Unfortunately, the image was too small and too far from us.  We also could not use our camera lenses to get a good look at the image as photography was not allowed inside the main hall.  There was a long line of people waiting for their turn so we did not stay long.

Even if we visited the Temple of the Emerald Buddha for a short time, we were enriched by the experience.  The Thais knew how to pay their respects and give utmost importance to their culture and ancient traditions.

Since we were scheduled to visit another interesting site, we returned our rented clothes at the entrance of the Grand Palace compound and left.  The next item on our list was the Vimanmek Mansion.

Note:  Make your stay in Thailand comfortable and extra memorable by booking rooms in any of Thailand’s reputable hotels like the Dusit Thani Hotel Bangkok.

Posted in Attractions, Thailand

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