Considered one of the most important statues of Buddha in Thailand, the Emeral Buddha is house in Wat Phra Kaew. There’s a lot of history and information about this temple. Let’s look at it in detail here.
1. The Royal Chapel of Rama I
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha became the royal chapel of King Rama I in 1784 after the king moved the capital of Siam across the river to where you can find present-day Bangkok. The temple was built in the royal palace grounds.
2. The Emerald Buddha
The Emerald Buddha is not made of emerald but another green mineral, possibly jasper or jade. The statue is only 66 centimetres tall and this is something that baffles visitors. However, it is considered so sacred, only the king of Thailand may touch it.
3. The Origins of the Emerald Buddha
No one knows of the true origins of the Emerald Buddha as close scrutiny by scientists hasn’t been allowed. Some believe that because of the art style it may have been carved in Sri Lanka or India. It may have been created far back as 1434.
4. How to Get to Wat Phra Kaew
Getting to Wat Phra Kaew from a Bangkok city hotel the likes of Pathumwan Princess Hotel is very easy. It is located on the Grand Palace grounds so it’s easy to find.
5. Visiting Info and Dress Code
It costs 500 baht for tourists to enter the temple. It is open from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm every day. Make sure you are dressed decently as you are visiting a place of worship.
