Thailand is known as the land of 31,000 temples, with beautiful and ornate Buddhist temples gracing this aged land at every corner. No matter which of the Bangkok city hotels you base your stay at, chances there, you will be able to spot the elegant spires of a temple carving a graceful silhouette in Bangkok’s skyline. The Atrium Bangkok is an elegant choice of city hotel Bangkok has to offer its tourists who are on cultural itineraries in the city. Number one n your list of “must-see” temples should be the Wat Pho Temple, one of the oldest and largest temples in the city, as well as being the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. It also is home to more than 1,000 Buddha images, of which one of the most famous is the beautiful Reclining Buddha, depicting the Bringer of Wisdom in his iconic state of repose prior to death. This striking stature measures 43 metres from root to tip, and is 15 metres high. The soles of the gargantuan feet are exquisite, inlaid with mother-of-pearl and depicting 108 auspicious symbols that represent the Buddha. Framing this impressive work are 108 offertory bowls evoking these icons of the Buddha. Visitors grace these with donations to invite good fortune into their lives, and also to help the monks maintain the Wat. The temple complex is immense, with 91 stupas, four main worship halls, and one central shrine. Emanating complete peace and tranquility, this beautiful temple is a splendid tribute to the Buddha.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday.
