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.

Some unique customs of Thailand

Thailand is the land of culture and heritage. Thailand is a Buddhist country where people are very polite and always smile towards each other. You will never see an angry face in Thailand. People are expected to be enough courteous at that place. Even if any foreigner violate the rule and do any sacrilegious acts, they immediately punished by imprisonment. It is not advisable to touch any Thai woman without their consent. In many cases it is seen that they are very conservative in nature. Mini skirts and short pants are not allowed in the Buddhist temple. So, you have to dress properly while in Thailand.

If you are in a plan to tan your body, think twice in Thailand because normally topless sunbathing is not allowed in Thailand. Thai people address other people with the title ‘khun’ and then their first name. Wai is their gesture to give respect to the elders. Head is regarded as noblest part of the body in Thailand. So, even if you touch someone’s head unintentionally, you should immediately offer serious apology to the concerned person. You should touch the table with foot while sitting. Avoid pointing anything by foot. It is considered discourteous or offensive if you touch any person by foot. Don’t forget to remove your shoes outside while entering in Thai temple or anyone’s house.

In Thailand showing affection between friends is common but displaying love between lovers is regarded as offensive. You can’t see any couple even holding their hands for a minute. You should never step in a coin in Thailand. It is considered as extremely discourteous. The reason behind this is as king’s face appeared on the coin it is highly offensive if you touch this with your foot. If you are visiting any Buddha temple be cautious that your feet are never pointed towards and Buddha image. Even in Thai residences, shrines are arranged in a manner that your feet will never point towards the god. Buddhist monks never come in contact with a woman so this point should be kept in mind that woman should always keep safe distance from Buddhist monks.