Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Best
Temples
A Thai temple (wát) is a compound of different buildings serving specific reli-
gious functions. Even if you don't consider yourself spiritual, Bangkok's wát
provide pleasures that range in scope from artistic inspiration to urban explora-
tion.
Top Tips
At many of Bangkok's temples dress rules are strictly enforced, and if you're wearing shorts or a sleeveless shirt,
you will not be allowed into the temple grounds - this applies to men and women.
Shoes must be removed before entering any enclosed structure in a Thai wát.
Thai Architecture
Traditional Thai temple architecture follows strict rules of design that dictate proportion,
placement, materials and ornamentation. In addition to the native Siamese styles of build-
ing, within Bangkok's temples you'll also find examples from historical Khmer, Mon, Lao
and northern Thai traditions.
Buddha Images
Every wát in Bangkok has a Buddha image, usually sculpted according to strict icono-
graphical rules found in Buddhist art texts dating to the 3rd century AD. There are four ba-
sic postures and positions: standing, sitting, walking and reclining.
Temple Murals
An astonishing variety of scenes from both secular and religious life embellish the inner
walls of temples throughout Bangkok. Always instructional in intent, such painted images
Search WWH ::




Custom Search