Nakhon Pathom (part 6)

The last stop on our day trip was the famous Phra Pathom Chedi. This is the largest pagoda in Thailand, and according to our guide, the largest in the world too.

It took 17 years to build and was completed in 1870 AD. During our visit, it was being restored.


Inside, there are wonderful wall paintings depicting how the chedi was built. Basically, workers placed a bone of Buddha inside a box, and placed that on a small alter. A small chedi (looking like an upside-down teacup) was built over the shrine. Over the years, additional layers were added, building up the current size today. If you were to strip away the layers, it would be similar to the Russian "Matroyshka" dolls. (see HERE)

Another interesting point about this chedi: there is a statue of Buddha which has a unique pose. There are only 2 statues in the world displaying this pose. One is in Borobudor, Indonesia (been there! See pictures below) and the other is in here, in Thailand. So, it's quite special.

The unique Buddha in pose:


Unfortunately, rain fell heavily during our visit here, so it was difficult to enjoy the enormous size of this chedi. After this visit was completed, we headed back on our train, this time, I sat in the non-air conditioned coach car, enjoying the countryside as it passed by....

Non-air conditioned car (Air conditioners on trains are quite strong. Be sure to bring a sweater!)


The view:


Information about this trip:
It was organized by a Meetup.com group, and the tour guides were from "Tour in Thailand" company. Web sites: HERE and HERE. The trip was from 8.00 ~ 19.00. Cost: 499 Baht (=$15) per person, including snacks, drinks, lunch and all entrance tickets.

For those who like Buddhism and/or Buddhist temples:
The largest temple in the world is Borobudor on Java island in Indonesia. It's a one hour flight from Bali and can be completed in a day trip. This place is just incredible and after the Grand Canyon, was one of my favorite sight-seeing spots. I hope you can go someday. ^_^




**Bonus** Today is "Coronation Day" in Thailand. On this day, in 1950, His Majesty, King Bhumibol, was crowned Rama IX, the 9th king of the Chakri dynasty. Celebrations are held at the Grand Palace, and feature Buddhist prayers, formal ceremonies and a 21 gun salute. Fireworks can also be heard throughout the city. Long live the King!^_^