A unique temple called Wat Pha Sorn Kaew
While a visit to a Buddhist Monastery in Thailand might not be high on the list for many a traditional tourist travelling in the kingdom, it may not be the case for the most intrepid globetrotter or anyone looking for the path less travelled.
If you are the latter, then there is one such place of interest you might find utterly amazing. The place in question is a temple called Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, also know as Wat Phra Thart Pha Kaew.
If nothing else, this architectural wonder has to be one of the most unique temples in Thailand. It’s definitely well worth visiting. But for that, you’ll have to venture a little further out of town. And by that I mean a four to five hour (depending on traffic) drive north of Bangkok.
You’ll find the Buddhist monastery a short distance from the small town of Kheam Son along highway 12 in North Central Thailand. It’s located between the towns of Phitsanulok and Lom Sak. The temple is nestled on an 830-meter high peak, so may I suggest you take a good pair of walking shoes to climb all those stairs.
While the road leading up to the temple may be fairly steep initially, it does level out in other areas as you continue the climb. However, the four kilometre drive it is well signposted.
Once there you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the city and surrounding countryside. You’ll also find that because the location is a little off the radar, there are fewer tourists around. There is a definite feel of calm and tranquillity here. This has to be one of the most amazing temple buildings you’ll ever see in Thailand.
While the main pagoda and surrounding structures are covered with thousands of colourful mosaic tiles and ceramics, the most striking structure has to be the huge white five headed Buddha monument.
And if that’s not enough, the view of the surrounding countryside from this hilltop location is truly spectacular. Also seen in the grounds, is a beautiful stained glass gazebo as well as a smaller pagoda.
And if you thought you’d seen it all on your travels, you haven’t seen anything as beautiful as this Buddhist Monastery in Thailand. If nothing else, you’re bound to be pleasantly surprised.
