It was shocking to see how much detail was put into the entrails of not only the Emerald Buddha, but the Royal Monastery as a whole.
When you first walk up to the white walls containing the Royal Palace, you’re given no hints of such detailed work but only a tease of the Royal Monastery temples towering high into the sky.
Once you pass through the main gates, hundreds of years of artwork is immediately grabbing your attention as you are greeted with a giant mural 1,900 meters long wrapping around the entire palace.
It is here the story and culture is shown as it was in the ancient scripture; quite opposite of what you would find in the streets of Thailand.
After reading the story you pass through the giant guards and walk through the maze of breathtaking architecture. You are eventually greeted by Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha). It is by far one of the most impressive things I have ever seen in my life.
Enjoy today’s photo essay as I walk you through this amazing piece of history in Thai culture.
The Royal Monastery’s Emerald Buddha
I’m sure you’ll be nothing short of amazed at the sheer beauty that shines through the years of hard work, dedication & perseverance it took to put the place together.
One of the many stories painted on the walls.
Monkey Statues in the Garden.
Lotus flower in the water.
Large monkeys protecting the temples.
Buddha statue next to a temple.
Glorious guards were outside every entrance.
Protective statues went around the circumference of the main temple.
Guard.
The Doors marking the entrance.
The Emerald Buddha in Summer Atire.
When we finally discovered the home of the Emerald Buddha, we took off our shoes in respect and walked up to the walls of the massive temple. The walls were plastered with millions of pieces of shiny glass bottles along with various statues of Gods protecting the temple itself, very similar in style to other temples found throughout Thailand.
Up the stairs and inside was a massive mound of gold treasure about 30-40 feet high. Perched high above it all was the Emerald Buddha. It was nothing short of an impressive display; something found fit for a king!
Have you ever been to the Royal Monastery in Thailand?
I loved exploring the Royal Monastery when I was in Thailand. The detail, carving, gilding it is so intricate and interesting.
I also headed out to Ayutthaya which is the old Siam Capital (former Bangkok) it is really intersting as well!
I loved the detail as well Joseph. During my visit it seemed like they were doing constant renovation. It’s great to see that they’re taking care of their cultural heritage. Great tip for visiting Siam Capital – I’ll explore it when I get back to Thailand. 🙂
The level of detail is absolutely stunning. I can’t possibly imagine how many hours and skill that went into creating it.
My answer for you: not yet…unless Orkney’s Italian Chapel counts! (I doubt it…)
I’ve never been to Orkney’s Italian Chapel so just looked it up – it’s not ‘quite’ the same, but is cute if you’re in the area! lol