Thailand

Activity

Hua Hin Beach Hua Hin Beach
Hua Hin is blessed with some attractive, accessible and family friendly beaches. As Hua Hin is situated on the Gulf of Thailand the seas are warm throughout the year, which makes swimming and other beach activities pleasurable at any time. Hua Hin has a little bit of everything and while some might bemoan that it’s somewhat too busy on weekends and national holidays, it continues to be a well-liked beach destination and draws many visitors from all over Thailand and abroad.

Klong Plu Waterfall Klong Plu Waterfall
Klong Plu is the third largest island in Thailand, another remarkable feature about this island is that this place is home to Mu Ko Chang National Park which comprises of around 40 islands. Well, if you are done with island hopping then take a break and head to waterfall hopping.Thailand is also home to some of the most beautiful and hidden waterfalls, Ko Chang, is one unique destination that offers you ample beach time as well as varied trekking options that ill keep you elated throughout your trip.

Laem Bang Bao Laem Bang Bao
Surrounded by groves of palm trees and beautiful clear blue waters of the sea, Bang Kao Beach is one of the most popular places to visit in Koh Samui. The shallow end of the beach is perfect for exploration if you are traveling with kids. There are also some colourful corals and vibrant sea creatures that give the place a fun vibe.

It is also fun to explore the crustaceans and crabs that roam the beach here. The deeper central end of the shore is stony and has moderate to high tides, ideal for some water sports and swimming.

Hat Sai Khao (White Sand Beach) Hat Sai Khao (White Sand Beach)
White Sand Beach is generally split into north and south, with the vast majority of the actual beach at the northern end and the southern section generally held to start at the point where the sand gives way to rocks and the cliffs. White Sand Beach is a popular choice for those that want a Thai beach/resort holiday with no hassle – during the day, a good stretch of sand with clear calm waters for swimming and sunbathing and in the evening, dining under the stars at the tables laid out along the beach, with the chance to hit the odd nightspot later.

Chiang Mai Night Safari Chiang Mai Night Safari
Chiang Mai Night Safari is a must-visit place for both adults and kids alike. It is the world’s second-largest nocturnal zoo, sprawling across an area of more than 300 acres. The zoo offers a wonderful experience in the wilderness of animals at night. Consists of three zones, namely, Savanna Safari, Predator Prawl, and Jungle Jaguar Trail the place has much to offer.

The Savanna Safari Zone houses over 300 animals of 34 distinct species, including rhinoceroses, zebras, giraffes, antelopes, deer, elephants, wildebeests, and much more. On the other hand, the Predator Prowl Zone is renowned for spotting the most ferocious predators of nature, like hyenas, crocodiles, lions, waterbucks, golden tigers, Asiatic black bears, etc. You can also take a stroll at the Jaguar Trail Zone and encounter animals, like white tigers, sloth bears, leopard cats, and much more, closely in their natural habitats.

Book a tram tour and witness the beauty of the park for around one and a half hours at night. It takes you on a thrilling journey to the Predator Prowl Zone and Savanna Safari Zone. Apart from this, you can witness the beauty of the Music Fountain, learn about the wild animals through fun activities at the Digital Zoo, and take photographs with the lovely newborn cubs at Feeding the Sun Conure.

Chiang Mai Zoo Chiang Mai Zoo
Situated on the foothills of Doi Suthep mountain, Chiang Mai Zoo is a must-visit place in Thailand. Housing more than 400 species of animals like zebras, penguins, seals, tigers, lions, flamingos, koalas, hippos, ostriches, giraffes, and much more, Chiang Mai Zoo garners a massive number of audiences from across the world.

Besides the rare animal species, the zoo consists of several other attractions, such as Chiang Mai Snow doom and a freshwater aquarium. When you visit the Chiang Mai Zoo, there is no other thing but to explore the vast area of the zoo and watch the animals playing in their natural habitat.

The Chiang Mai Zoo is also a famous spot for hiking among several tourists that come for a solo trip or in a group. You can take a gentle stroll at the campus of the zoo until the aquarium or have a glimpse of the animals from the window of your tour vehicle.

Located just beside the entrance is the Cage Area, where all the tiny animals are kept protected inside the old-school cages. A long stretch of flowers around the cages enhances the beauty of the place even further. You can also enjoy a picnic with your family at The Breeding Area or Recreational Areas

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple is highlighted by seven-headed snake statues that line the 306 stairs, making it a sacred spot for Thais. When you reach the temple's terrace, the view from the top is simply breathtaking.

It is around 15 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai, on top of the Doi Suthep mountain. One of northern Thailand's most revered temples, Doi Suthep, is perched atop the Doi Suthep mountain on the western suburbs of Chiang Mai. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located in the center of Thailand, was founded in 1383 by King Keu Naone to house a fragment of bone that is supposed to be a portion of Buddha's shoulder.

A traveling monk from Sukhothai took it to Lanna, and it was broken down into two pieces near the mountain's base, with one piece preserved at Wat Suan Dok. The second bone was placed on a sacred white elephant before being released into the wild. As per the reports, the elephant ascended in the direction of Doi Suthep, and then came to a halt. It trumped three times and then died. At that time, it was a good omen, and on King Nu Naone's orders, construction of the temple began. Pavilions, stupas, sculptures, and wiharns make up the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep complex.

Visitors can visit a museum on the premises, which houses historical artifacts, pictures, and old temple wares. The pavilions also include monks' housing rooms, an Ubosot prayer hall, a souvenir shop, and small shops selling drinks and food.

Koh Lanta Island Koh Lanta Island
Stretching from Klong Dao on the northern side and Bamboo Bay on the southern, Koh Lanta is probably amongst the most favored beaches in Thailand. The sheer size of the coastline is what attracts most beach bums to this stunning getaway.

For the adventurists, the popular places for diving are on the coasts of Hin Daeng, Hin Muang, and Ko Haa. Lanta is the pride and joy of Krabi and can be easily reached thanks to its relatively flat and accessible geology. The island is located in the Krabi province.

Emerald Pool Emerald Pool
The Krabi Emerald Pool, also known as Sa Morakot, is a natural crystal lagoon, located inside the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve near Bang Teao Village in the Khao Pra-Bang Khram area of Ao Nang in Krabi province. The natural pool is emerald in color owing to high limestone and mineral content, which is full of freshwater that has been supplied by natural streams cascading down the surrounding hills.

A leisure walk through the natural jungle trail of the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve through waterfalls, streams and other pools will take you to the crystal clear lagoon with its turquoise water shining under the canopy of the lush green forest surrounding it.

You can enjoy a swim in the beautiful pond which has a width of 20 meters and a depth between 1 to 1 meters. Branching out from the pond are small streams that flow through the park. You can also opt to go for a bath or swim in any area of the streams.

The crystal clear water of the pond is very rich in minerals and can be helpful in rejuvenating your skin and body. The presence of the surrounding thick cover of the rainforest with its tropical trees and its fauna of diverse species will enhance your experience of spending some relaxing time.

The Emerald Pool Highlights

Railay Beach Railay Beach
The majority of tourists come from the Krabi region to take a break away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The stunning oceanfront views combine an active vacation with an adventurous sport, such as rock climbing. Many travelers choose the Railay beach to try their hand at rock climbing because of the abrasive surface of the cliffs.

Behind the limestone cliffs lies a hidden lagoon that may be reached without extensive climbing; however, due to the uneven terrain, trekking up to the lagoon is a difficult endeavor for beginners.

Here on Railay beach, you can engage in a variety of activities. Travelers can partake in exotic aquatic activities such as snorkeling. Exotic marine life awaits your presence, enabling you to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Railay beach lets you take a comprehensive tour of the Diamond Cave which is located at a 5-minute walk from the beach's center. Aside from the vivacity of this beautiful cave, you can take pleasure in its attractive and photographic features like the pinnacles, stalagmites, and pilasters.

Phi Phi Island Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi Island is the most popular destination in Thailand. The Phi Phi Islands consist of six islands. The major ones being Phi Phi Don, which hosts the bohemian town of Phi Phi Islands, and Phi Phi Leh with Maya Bay. Phi Phi Islands are famous for its limestone cliffs rising sheer out of the emerald green waters, white powdery beaches and its many coral reefs offering great diving and snorkeling.



Highlights: This island is popular for sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling. Tourists can also visit Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Pileh Cove, Viking Cave and Monkey Beach.

Sriracha Tiger Zoo Sriracha Tiger Zoo
Take some time out of your busy schedule and plan a wildlife-rich trip to the Sriracha Tiger Zoo! Settled amidst the exotic beaches of Thailand, the zoo is situated in Sriracha district of Chon Buri province in Thailand. It is a 30-minute drive away from the south direction of Pattaya.

The beauty of the Sriracha Tiger Zoo is exceptionally elegant. The entrance of the zoo is built with realistic structures of tigers. These enormous structures are accompanied by rocks and lush green plants beside it. After entering, you will get an insight into the plethora of activities present for the visitors.

Here you will witness shows like elephant shows, tiger shows, crocodile shows, and pig shows. From watching the tigers leap into the ring of fire to the bubbly dance of elephants, these shows won’t disappoint you. You can also meet and feed the ostriches, kangaroos, exotic birds, and single hump camels.

Moreover, witness the motherly bond between tigers and its cubs, pigs and its piglets. You will also get a chance to play with the tiger cubs and piglets. With so much to see and do, Sriracha Tiger Zoo is a perfect family getaway.

Koh Larn (coral island) Koh Larn (coral island)
ee the different colors on the sea and the sky gather together to create a different story about Pattaya and Bangkok during this day tour which is an elegant chance for you to discover the famous islands. Experience the azure sea sharing some unforgettable moments with you on Coral Island Tour From Pattaya.



An adventurous day with the surroundings that will turn your day into one of the most exciting and thrilling experiences of your life. Relax and travel to the mesmerizing and beautiful Koh Larn Coral Island, Pattaya via a speedboat. With the beautiful islands with fantastic beaches, you can either have a day for leisure and rejuvenation, or you can get the best of all the worlds by engaging in the daunting and high-octane water sporting activities.

Underwater World Pattaya Underwater World Pattaya
See more than 5,000 aquatic animals in Underwater World Pattaya, the first modern aquarium in Thailand. Admire the beauty of an astonishing range of marine life, including the rare Shovel-Nose Ray, a hybrid of a shark, stingray, jellyfish, coral, sharks, manta rays, and enormous fish from a 100-meter underwater tunnel. Don't pass up the opportunity to learn about koi in a family-friendly environment.

See more than 5000 aquatic animals from over 500 different species at the aquarium

Admire the fascinating reef tank, which features vibrant coral reefs and the symbiotic relationship of undersea plants, fish, and anemones

Get a chance to touch marine animals like starfish and sea cucumbers in the Touch Pool

Explore the amazing Underwater World Pattaya in Thailand, which spread across a massive area of 4.75 acres

Stroll inside the 100-meter-long glass tunnel, which creates the illusion of walking on the ocean floor surrounded by thousands of fish of many species, even sharks

Art in Paradise Art in Paradise
Art in Paradise is a perfect place to enjoy the 'Optical illusion art,' which enables the human eye with the ability to trick the human brain. It is a beautiful place that not only impresses, but is fun-filled, lively, and leaves you with memories to cherish forever. It is Thailand's first 3-D art museum and has an astounding collection of interactive artwork and sculptures which make it one of its kind museums. It is located in Chon Buri Province, Pattaya and started its operation on May 2, 2012.

The art gallery is spread in about 5,800 square meters, making it the largest in the world. Renowned South Korean artist, Mr. Shin Jae Yeoul, was the inspiration behind this museum, who is now the Managing Director of this wonderful art gallery. He along with eleven other talented Korean artists showcased their skills in an old building. They modified that building into an impressive display of over 140 marvelous paintings. These paintings were made in a way that they provide an interactive 3-D illusion. The aesthetic style used in making these paintings makes every picture clicked with them, realistic, stylish, and interactive.

This gallery is divided into 10 different zones, all covering different aspects of art. The 10 zones include Mirage, Aqua, Zoo, Classic Art, Ayutthaya, Egyptian, Thai, Surrealism, Dinosaur, and Exhibition Room. Art in Paradise is the ideal destination to spend time with your family, friends, and even lovers. Here you can get involved with the artworks and get snapped with them. This place lets the inner kid in you to rise and enjoy the mind-blowing experiences like never before. It attracts a multitude of tourists from all over the world to enjoy the superb and almost real experiences and capture the moments.

Pattaya Floating Market Pattaya Floating Market
A trip to Pattaya is incomplete without a tour of its famous floating market. The Pattaya Floating Market is one of the biggest spectacles in Thailand, where hundreds of vendors park their boats on the water, selling a multitude of items that are unique to Thailand and Pattaya. The market is divided into four distinct sections- north, south, central and north-east- where each zone displays, sells and curates different aspects of Thai life and culture.

Guests and visitors who come to this market can rent out a boat with a driver themselves and explore the famous Pattaya floating market. Apart from being a market for souvenirs and utilities, the Pattaya floating market is also a centre of art and culture. Here, you can check out some incredible specimens of local architecture, museums and even art exhibitions and performances. This is also one of the best places to sample the local cuisine of Thailand from the many food shops that are there.

Walking Street Pattaya Walking Street Pattaya
Walking Street is a 700-meter-long street that starts at the southernmost end of Pattaya Beach Road and finishes at Bali Hai Pier. Including the approximate 500 meters of side streets (sois) between Walking Street and 2nd Road, there’s a total distance of about 1.2 kilometers, populated mainly by various nightlife venues.Besides gogo bars, discos, and nightclubs, Walking Street is also home to numerous open-style beer bars, live music venues, restaurants, fast-food outlets, tailor shops, convenience stores, and cannabis cafes.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Nong Nooch Tropical Garden
Visit this beautiful and award-winning garden showcasing an impressive range of plants and landscaping
Make sure to catch the amazing elephant show and Thai cultural show while in Nong Nooch

Sanctuary of Truth Museum Sanctuary of Truth Museum
The Sanctuary of Truth is a magnificent construction of wood which is situated at the Rachvate cape of Naklua Pattaya City. Holding the glory of arts and philosophy of goodness, this place is considered to be the world’s largest and most astonishing woodcarving structure. The architecture of this museum is a unique blend of both temple and palace which was built by King Rama IX. This museum is the place which describes the best of the Thai craftsmanship. The intricately carved elephants, people, scenes creatures and the mythological deities are a stunning view to admire.

These carvings are a tribute to the Ancient vision of Earth and also the Ancient Knowledge and Eastern Philosophy which is embraced at every corner of this monument. This building is also a strong vision of human existence as the older parts of the museums wooden carvings have degraded with the effects of weather and climate. Thus the construction of this museum is an ongoing and never-ending process which started in 1981. This 105m tall building is not just a place which reflects a beautiful blend of cultures and traditions, but also organizes tours in multiple languages for the visitors to understand better.

Not just this, Thai dance performances are also a major highlight of this unique museum. To get a better insight of this one of a kind attractions in Pattaya, follow this handy guide and witness something which is just a marvel creation of mankind.

PaTong Beach PaTong Beach
Patong is the busiest coastal town on Phuket, with Patong Beach as one of the most popular tourist destinations. The sandy beach, which stretches for 2.5 kilometers, is lined with hotels, resorts, bars, and other tourist attractions, making it a popular choice among visitors. This may be a thorn in the side for travelers who dislike crowds, but Patong's nightlife has always enthralled visitors!

Patong Beach nestles close to the main road and it is separated by a row of swaying palm, coconut, and tropical almond trees. You will find a number of beach kiosks selling delectable snacks and drinks. You can also head out to some of the beach massage parlors where you can enjoy traditional Thai massage sessions.

Patong's fast-paced lifestyle is ideal for young people who are unlikely to be bored here. The seaside town, which is famed for its nightlife because of its numerous clubs, pubs, and lounges, is open 24 hours a day. Patong is also known for its shopping lanes, where shopaholics are sure to discover something special to take home with them. Shopping enthusiasts have a variety of options for their enjoyable pastime, ranging from night markets to fresh markets to malls.

Watersports enthusiasts will discover a variety of water activities to participate in, including surfing and swimming. They can also relax and unwind on beach umbrellas and sun loungers! At the very least, beachgoers can have a mug of beer while watching the sun set over Patong's lovely sea. Without a question, Patong is the place to be for party animals, but not for those seeking quiet.

Tiger Kingdom Tiger Kingdom
Tiger Temple or WatPhaLuang Ta Bua was established in 1994, is located in western of Thailand as a religious community and wildlife sanctuary for wild animals, the greater part of which are Indochinese tigers. An exclusive visit to the tiger sanctuary takes an entire day considering the season of going. The vast majority of travellers go to this project frequently. Numerous photograph opportunities with tigers are accessible which provides you with the golden opportunity of caressing these wild beasts.

Elephant Safari Park Elephant Safari Park
Elephant Safari Park Bali was established in 1997 and is located in the misty hinterlands of Ubud, a response to the plight of the native elephant population in Sumatra, where deforestation and poaching eradicated their population. This park houses 27 critically endangered Sumatran elephants, six of which were born in this elephant rescue center. While giving guests the chance to learn and interact with these gentle giants, the park offers a comfortable and safe habitat for the large herd.

The park has been carefully landscaped within its four hectares to mimic the native Sumatra habitat for the elephants. This chosen location in central Bali was also selected due to its cooler climate and lush vegetation that aids in keeping the elephants comfy and cool in such a serene setting.

Elephant Safari park adheres to the '5 Freedoms of Animal Welfare', freedom from hunger and thirst, discomfort, pain, injury or discomfort; freedom to discuss; and freedom from distress and fear. There is no use of harsh or cruel methods of training here, as all training is based upon patience, reward and repetition.

There are 27 Sumatran elephants residing within the beautiful botanical gardens of this resort surrounded by mountains and rainforests. A mammoth skeleton over 15,000 years old is also found in the park, making it one of the rarest sights in Southeast Asia. A comprehensive museum houses over 1000 exhibits in the park. Additionally, the museum has an information center that provides displays and a short graphic history of elephants in addition to a spa and an extensive collection of elephant-related items.

Karon  BeachView Point Karon BeachView Point
Located on the west coast of Phuket, Karon Beach is one of the longest beaches on the island, spanning 5 km of fine white sand. Less crowded than its neighbors, Karon Beach offers spectacular views of the golden sand gradually giving way to a clear blue sea.

It is famous for its wide and relaxing mini beaches featured with a great mix of lovely hotels that offer ample accommodation options to visitors. Most of the resorts in Karon beach have excellent restaurants serving both international and Thai food.

There is a wide range of activities on offer at the beach as well. Swimming is a popular activity, but you can also enjoy snorkeling, try various water sports and even go for a hike. It is advisable to always wear a lifejacket when participating in any motorized water sports activities, even if you have prior experience of the same.

When you are ready to relax, you can enjoy a traditional Thai massage on the beach. If you want to learn a new skill during your holiday at Karon beach you can join a cooking class offered by several big hotels located here.

Freedom Beach Freedom Beach
Freedom Beach is a magnificent 300-meter strip of white sand bordered by lush green hills with jungles and dotted with granite pebbles. The Longtail boat is the most common mode of transportation to Freedom Beach. The high season, which runs from December to June, is when the longtail boat season is at its peak. Though there are coral reefs on both the northern and southern sides of Freedom Island, the reefs on the southern side are more colorful and spectacular.

You may take a stroll on the white sand or relax on the beach while admiring the stunning scenery and amazing rock formations during your visit. In the beautiful clear seas, you may also go snorkeling and swim. You will be able to see a broad variety of vivid coral ridges, which will provide you with a very fascinating aquatic life.

The landing site for long-tail boats separates two unique areas on Freedom Beach. The finest area to lay down for basking is on the beach's northern end. Ascend the stone steps for great views of the coastline from the hillside if you wish to snap excellent shots.

Old Phuket Town Old Phuket Town
Old Phuket Town happens to be a place that takes you down in the memory lane on a cultural walk through some of the beautiful traditional architectures and marketplaces. The township is located on the eastern side of Phuket Island and is considered to be the capital of various shades of culture. Heading over to this place, you will get a chance to enjoy the traditional and Sino-Portuguese architecture. The township was brought into being in the 19th century and it has been able to earn a good name from the tin trade.

Old Phuket township is also very much famous for being home to a number of cafes and restaurants that delight the taste buds of visitors with unique local delicacies like Dubik, Ranong, Rasada, Yaowarat, Krabi and Thalang. You will truly be amazed by the rich flavour of Thailand as well as get a chance to explore the exquisite combination of fresh ingredients and species.

Old Phuket town can also be considered as a paradise for history and photography buffs. The township is home to some of the age-old structures and heritage sites giving a chance to the visitors to trace facts and capture some of the best pictures to cherish the moments.

 Big Buddha Phuket Big Buddha Phuket
Phuket Big Buddha is one of the most significant and admired landmarks in Phuket, Thailand. It is the third tallest statue in Thailand after Luangpho Yai and the Great Buddha of Thailand. The marvelous statue of the Great Buddha of Phuket is nestled on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Kata and Chalong. The Big Buddha Statue is structured to a height of 45 meters, while the lap of the statue is around 25 meters wide,

The Big Buddha built during the year 2004 is devoted to the late King of Thailand, His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej. There is a tiny Buddha placed beside the large statue made from brass, which is dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.

The entire body of the Big Buddha has a layer of magnificent Burmese white jade marble that glistens in the sun. A tiny Buddha sits next to the Phuket Big Buddha which is completely made of 20 tonnes of brass. However, it has a golden color to it. Popularly known as Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Eknakiri, the massive statue offers a 360-degree view of the island with extensive vistas of Kata, Karon, Chalong Bay, and Phuket town, thereby providing a meditative atmosphere for the tourists.

The surrounding atmosphere of the Phuket Big Buddha is relatively peaceful. You can only hear the tinkling of tiny bells and the large bell going after every 7 minutes. Soft Dharma music fills the entire background of the serene atmosphere of Phuket Big Buddha.

The funds of this tourist destination come entirely from the heavy donations by the visitors. At the base of the Big Buddha Statue, there is a hall that displays the history of the construction, some teachings of Buddhism, and plenty of donation boxes. You are not allowed to visit the site in beachwear, short skirts, and T-shirts containing offensive images as it is a religious place.

You can also witness the novice ordination of the son of the family. It is a sign of pride for the entire family. Thus, the visitors also feel mesmerized to watch the ceremony of leaving the worldly things of life and attain Nirvana.

Wat Chaithararam (Wat Chalong) Wat Chaithararam (Wat Chalong)
Wat Chalong is one of the most beautiful and dominant Buddhist temples, known for attracted travellers from all over the world. While for the local population, this temple is a noteworthy centre of worship while for foreign visitors Wat Chalong is a source to know and learn more about this beautiful religion – Buddhism. Poh Than Jo Wat is an impressive and colossal Buddhist statues located in the old hall of the temple. Another fun fact about this place is that the temple also boasts a statue of an elderly gentleman called Ta Khee- lek who won a famous local Thai who won numerous lotteries after consulting Poh Than Jo Wat statue. Apart from the grandeur visitors also enjoy the stunning display of around a dozen small shops selling all kinds of souvenirs and visitor’s stuff.

Lumpini Park Lumpini Park
Lumpini Park is an inner-city haven of tranquility, fresh air, and shade - offering city dwellers the perfect connection to nature. Named after the birthplace of the Lord Buddha in Nepal, the park is more than half a million square metres big, and the habitat of various flora and fauna. Lumpini Park has over the years grew into the endearing centre for outdoor leisure activities for people.



Highlights: The park is home to ever rarer indigenous flora, a forest park, and some quirky residents like the water monitor lizards. Some of the colourful recreational pursuits at the park include rowing, paddleboats, and a fun outdoor gym. On the subject of food, Lumpini Park never fails to impress with many street vendors cooking up famous Thai street food like Pad Thai etc.

Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun) Temple Of Dawn (Wat Arun)
Located by the banks of Chao Phraya, the temple complex was established back during the times of battle between Siam and Burma, by the remaining rules of the dynasty and General Taksin. The temple was later renamed Aruna after the Indian God of Dawn when a new Ayutthaya was founded.

Wat Arun portrays the architectural brilliance of ancient times and also has a rich history behind it. King Rama II had initiated the construction work of the massive temple, but it was completed later in the nineteenth century by King Rama III.

The temple is adorned with ornate floral mosaics which were made from shattered Chinese porcelain in vibrant colors, forming intricate designs. Several parts of the temple are covered with eye-catching murals which date back to the reign of King Rama V. The central Buddha statue had been designed and installed by King Rama II.

A noteworthy attribute of the temple is the prominent depiction of Prince Siddhartha and his brush with the stages of life outside the high walls of the palace, such as birth, old age, sickness, and death. It emphasizes the significance of these encounters as they ultimately lead him to renounce his worldly affairs and seek Nirvana.

The magnificent views of the Chao Phraya River from here especially at sundown offers a delightful experience.

Wat Phra Chetuphon Wat Phra Chetuphon
Wat Pho happens to be one of the most fascinating temple complexes as well as a popular tourist attraction in Bangkok that is located in the premises of The Grand Palace. This place is known for being the headquarters of teaching and preservation of Traditional Thai Medicine and Research. However, the centre of attraction of the temple is the largest statue of the reclining Buddha and for this the temple is also called the Temple of Reclining Buddha.

The temple is spread over an area of 8 hectares and was constructed by King Rama I as a Buddhist place of worship. During the reign of King Rama III, it was considered to be the centre of healing and known to be the very first university of Thailand. The temple is still considered to be a place of healing and the monks practise many traditional healing actions. The statue of the reclining Buddha is about 45 meters long and 15 meters high making it one of the largest statues in Thailand.

The statue of Buddha is inlaid with many precious stones and about 108 signs of truth. The earlobes of the statue signify noble birth whereas the lotus bed configuration of the hand signifies purity and beauty. Apart from the reclining statue, the temple is home to a number of Buddha images that are sourced from various parts of the world.

It is truly a sight to behold and if you are an art lover then you will truly be stunned by the work of the intricate art. Wat Pho is also called as the birthplace of relaxing Thai massage. Being a centre of knowledge and learning in diverse fields, you will come across many inscriptions and illustrations serving as the instruction for the massage therapists. The temple has two separate pavilions in the complex that are used as classrooms for practising skills and the other one is used to receive the massage treatment.

Architecture of Wat Pho

The architecture of Wat Pho is similar to that of the Ayutthayan and many of the present structures in the Wat Pho are bought from the remains of the temple town. Apart from Ayutthayan style of architecture, you will also come across some of the other buildings and complexes designed in varied architectural styles.

At the centre of the temple, you will come across an enormous statue of a reclining Buddha with his feet inlaid with a mother of peal. This place has beautiful marble interiors as well as more than 1000 Buddha images and statues that are sourced from various parts of the world. The impressive Chinese stones are worth a notice during your exploration tour. There are some statues in the complex that depict the European style of architecture guarding the gates with the compound.

History of Wat Pho

The origins of Wat Pho are majorly unknown but as per beliefs this majestic structure was in existence much before 1782. King I moved the capital of Siam to Bangkok and ordered a complete restoration of the old temple site. Many of the Buddha images were removed from the temples that were abandoned in other parts of Thailand and were reinstalled at Wat Pho which was originally called Wat Photaram. Wat Pho is considered to be the very first public university of Thailand and has remnants of the first four Chakri Kings. The major highlights of the temple are the Bodhi Tree that is believed to be the sacred tree in Bodh Gaya and the largest reclining statue of Buddha. This place preserves the legacy of the Chakri Dynasty and is also considered to be a repository of the Thai culture, art, and knowledge.