Perhaps the most iconic image of Bangkok is that of the Wat Phra Kaeo, the royal chapel of the Grand Palace. Built in 1785 when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok, the temple complex is a dazzling array of buildings, sculptures, murals, and chedis (stupas). It contains Thailand's holiest shrine - the bot (temple) containing the Emerald Buddha. Unlike other wats, the What Phra Kaew does not have resident monks.
Similar to Wat Arun and neighboring Wat Pho, glittering mosaics abound, along with chedis embellished with floral decorations made from broken China porcelain. Gold is a favorite color, adorning the massive mosaic-covered Phra Siratana Chedi, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, other chedis, and numerous sculptures. The galleries along the temple wall contain highly detailed murals depicting the entire Ramayana epic, complete with fanciful figures and gore. Each gate is guarded by two 5-meter tall "Yaksa Tavarnbals" which are also from the same epic. Behind the Phra Mondop one can find a model of Angor Wat, which was at one time under Siamese control.
When walking around, be sure to look up, in the nooks & crannies, and near your feet. You will be treated to fanciful creatures, beautiful mosaics, painted tiles, and guilded roof ornamentation. Stair railings slither down, with a multi-headed claw at its end. The entire complex is beautifully maintained and in excellent state of preservation - an indication of its importance to the Thai people.If you only have a day to visit Bangkok, this should be on or near the top of your list.
See more photos on my Flickr page
Tip: While it is true that visitors are expected to dress modestly (no spaghetti straps or shorts), wearing sandals (particularly those with a heel strap) doesn't seem to be a problem anymore. True to warnings in guidebooks, beware of friendly-appearing tuk-tuk drivers and others around the area telling you that the complex is closed - they only want to lure you to overpriced tailor and jewelry shops where they get a commission for hauling unsuspecting visitors.
1 comment:
Oh, these photos are gorgeous. I love all the intricate detail.
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