Temples in Thailand

The majority of population in Thailand is Buddhist and that is why Buddhism also prevails in the city of Bangkok. Buddhist people are generally religious and may be that is the reason over 31,200 Buddhist temples spread around Thailand. In Thailand temples are known as ‘wat’. They are categorized into two main groups and these are temples which are permitted to carry out religious functions and those which are used only for living quarters for monks. In Thailand you can get a temple in anywhere and everywhere in the country. You can simply go to offer your prayers and “make merit” even if you aren’t a Buddhist. Although most of the other temples share almost similar features, some of the Buddhist temples are there which are architecturally glorious and historically important.

Based on the structural characterization Buddhist temples are classified into two main categories and these are Royal Temples and Common Temples. In Thailand, there are about 200 Royal Temples out of which only six are of the highest grade. When visiting a temple in Thailand, it is polite to seek the permission of the Abbott before taking photographs. You should also take permission before entering any place other than the main area. The permission should be taken from monk or one of the many helpers found in the temple grounds. Normally permission is granted without seeing the Abbott, but your show of respect by asking, will be returned.

If visiting popular temples, such as Wat Phra Kaeo in the Grand Palace grounds, there is no need to seek any permission regarding photography. You just need to follow the instructions if there is anything written about that. Wat Phra Kaeo temple is situated in the capital city of Bangkok. This is commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha as because it houses a small two foot jade statue of Buddha which rests upon a huge golden alter.