#decorated chedi

[odishadetails]

ART OF ODISHA

ART OF ODISHA

The Rock Art of Odisha dates back to as early as the prehistoric period. The earliest reported are the rock shelters of Vikramkhol in Jharsuguda district. The cells attracted men to live there, who decorated these rock shelters with paintings and engravings in various geometrical forms and figures of human and animals.

HERE ODISHA HISTORY BOOK AVAILABLE

Most of these sites are found in the hills of Sundergarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur and Kalahandi. The rock edicts at Dhauli, Jaugad and the archeological treasures found at excavation sites of Sisupalgarh testify to the earliest highly developed sculptural art of Orissa covering a period of about 2000 years.

The forepart of an element, hewn out of solid rock at Dhauli represents the earliest sculpture in Odisha. With the rise of Kharavela (Chedi dynasty) in the first century BC caves were ordered to cut in the solid rocks for the use of Jain ascetics. The caves of Khandagiri and Udayagiri decorated with highly artistic large panels depicting a vivid picture of the contemporary society find special mention in the rock cut architecture of India.

Figures of Jain tirthankars and Sasanadevas with their emblems have been found in caves in Puri, Keonjhar, Balasore and Koraput districts. The caves consist of one or more cells and a few of them are fronted by pillared verandahs.

The Buddhist sculptural art developed with Emperor Ashoka from 261 BC to about 12th Century AD. With the transforming of Mahayana form of Buddhism to Vajrayan, the creative genius of the artists once again attained its peak as reflected by Buddhist sculptures of Lalitgiri, Udayagiri and Ratnagiri.

Sculptures representing Boddhisatva and Avalokiteswara in different forms along with Buddha images, stupas and monasteries were the main constituent of the early medieval Odishan sculptural art.

However, the art found its supreme expression represented by the sculptures pertaining to various sects of Hinduism in Orissa, the Saivism, Vaishnavism and Shaktism (represented by Durga and her different forms). The Sailodbhava, the Bhaumakaras, the Somavansis and the illustrious Gangas are particularly known for temple building. The sculptures and superb carvings on the temples at Bhubaneswar, Puri and Konark are the finest examples of the Odisha’s glorious past.

Look out for the sculptures of nayika and mithuna figures, yakshas and yakhis (the male and female deities associated with ancient fertility cults), heavenly musicians, human poses and expressions, elephants, horses and soldiers and those depicting day to day themes, like hunting, dancing, games and family life. After the fall of the Gangas, sculpture in Odisha vanished as an art form.

[jovialevents12]

Elegant and Affordable Wedding Venues in Sharjah for Every Budget

Jovial Events

Website: https://www.jovialevents.com/

E-Mail: info@jovialevents.com

Phone: +971 50 108 8607

Elegant and Affordable Wedding Venues in Sharjah for Every Budget

Here’s a guide to elegant yet affordable wedding venues in Sharjah that won’t break the bank:

Holiday Inn Sharjah Offering a range of elegant spaces and modern amenities, this venue provides a stylish yet budget-friendly option for your wedding.

Centro Sharjah by Rotana Known for its contemporary design and affordable packages, Centro Sharjah offers a chic setting for a sophisticated celebration.

Al Sharq Hotel This venue provides a blend of traditional elegance and modern convenience, making it a great choice for those on a budget.

Golden Tulip Sharjah With its stylish decor and versatile event spaces, Golden Tulip offers an affordable yet elegant setting for your wedding.

The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah While a bit higher-end, this venue often has packages that are reasonably priced for the level of luxury and charm it provides.

Sharjah National Hotels Known for its excellent service and affordable rates, this venue offers a variety of settings for a memorable wedding.

Al Bustan Hotel Combining modern amenities with traditional hospitality, Al Bustan Hotel offers an elegant atmosphere at a reasonable price.

Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Sharjah This venue offers stylish event spaces and competitive rates, making it a great choice for an elegant yet affordable wedding.

Copthorne Hotel Sharjah With its sleek design and affordable packages, Copthorne provides a refined setting without a hefty price tag.

Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club Although known for its upscale offerings, this venue provides flexible packages and options that can suit various budgets.

These venues offer a balance of elegance and affordability, ensuring you have a beautiful wedding without overspending.

[saurabhgt]

Discovering the Top 5 Best Temples in Thailand

Thailand, often referred to as the “Land of Smiles,” is rich in cultural heritage and spiritual significance, largely reflected through its numerous stunning temples, known locally as “wats.” These temples are not just places of worship but also architectural masterpieces and historical treasures. Here’s a journey through the Top 5 temples in Thailand that every traveler must explore. So, put your hands on the best Thailand trip packages for the most amazing vacation to the land of temples. Let’s get started with them to have a better view of them. 

1. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Located on the Thonburi west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. The temple’s name is derived from the Hindu god Aruna, often personified as the radiations of the rising sun.

Highlights:

Architectural Marvel: Known for its unique design and Khmer-style towers (prangs) that are intricately decorated with colorful porcelain.

Sunrise and Sunset Views: The temple looks spectacular at dawn and dusk, providing breathtaking views of the skyline.

Historical Significance: Dates back to the Ayutthaya period, making it a vital part of Thailand’s rich history.

2. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)

Highlights:

Spiritual Importance: A site of national pilgrimage, especially during important Buddhist ceremonies.

Intricate Murals: The temple walls are adorned with murals depicting the life of Buddha and the Ramakien, Thailand’s national epic.

Grand Architecture: The temple complex showcases splendid Thai architecture, with golden spires and ornate statues.

3. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

Also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon, Wat Pho is one of Bangkok’s oldest and largest temples, home to the magnificent Reclining Buddha statue, which measures 46 meters long and 15 meters high.

Highlights:

Reclining Buddha: The statue represents Buddha’s entry into Nirvana and is covered in gold leaf.

Traditional Thai Massage: Wat Pho is known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage, and the temple still operates a massage school today.

Historical Library: Contains a large collection of inscriptions and texts on various subjects including medicine, history, and literature.

4. Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Located in Chiang Rai, Wat Rong Khun, commonly known as the White Temple, is a contemporary, unconventional temple designed by renowned Thai visual artist Chalermchai Kositpipat.

Highlights:

Unique Design: The temple is entirely white, symbolizing the purity of Buddha, and is adorned with pieces of glass that sparkle in the sunlight.

Modern Art: Incorporates elements of contemporary art and pop culture, blending traditional Buddhist symbolism with modern references.

Artistic Experience: Visitors can explore the artist’s studio and see ongoing projects.

5. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Perched on Doi Suthep mountain overlooking Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of northern Thailand’s most sacred temples. The temple is a significant pilgrimage destination and offers stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai.

Highlights:

Golden Chedi: The temple’s central stupa is covered in gold and enshrines relics of the Buddha.

Scenic Views: Offers a breathtaking view of Chiang Mai city from the temple grounds.

Cultural Significance: A site of spiritual and historical importance, deeply rooted in Lanna culture and traditions.

Conclusion

Thailand’s temples are a testament to the country’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Each temple, with its unique architectural style, historical significance, and serene ambiance, provides a glimpse into the profound Buddhist traditions that have shaped Thai society. Whether you are seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply wish to marvel at the architectural wonders, these top 5 temples offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of Thailand’s cultural soul.

[amazing-thailand]

This floating chedi at Wat Huai Kaeo in Lopburi is much-coveted for its unique decorative elements. Inside is an unusual showcase of white jade Buddha images. Many thanks to IG : blowithand for this image.

[shyampyari]

what is the letter (re: the rukmini post)

oh boy

They should have seen it coming,

They should have seen it through and through because the princess of Vidarbha was obviously lost in love, unfortunate to her brother though, not with the man Rukmi wanted her to marry.  

However to Rukmi’s dismay, he might have convinced the King of the qualities of his good friend, Sishupala, but Rukimini? She had long ago taken Krishna as her husband, only Kirshna

Hence, through desperate eyes and empty hands, Rukmini sent a letter to her Shyam.

You must be the one that holds the beauty of all of this universe.  Distress leaves me when your name vibrates in my ears.  They say of your beauty and I? Im shameless. I think of noting but you.

Mukunad? No one can compare to you in your qualities.  who O lion among men? Who would not want you as there own? To wear sindur in your name?

I am no different. My dearest, I have taken you as my Husband. I surrender. Shyam, come and take me away, make your yours truly. Let no Jackal like Sihupala, take what belongs to a lion, like you.

If i were true in my worship, pious in my ways and sincere in my words, then may Gadagraj take my hands, not Chedi’s king, not anyone. Take me, take me, take me. 

Are you wondering? How you get to me through these decorations and relatives and a palace full of guards? Nothing can stop the lord but let me show you a way. On the day before my marriage, that must not happen, I, the bride, will perform a gran procession to the royal family deity, outside the city, I will visit the temple of Goddess Girijā. 

Lotus eyed, you would know that even Shiva would bathe in your mercy to wash away ones ignorance. If I cannot obtain your mercy, I will give up my breath. I will perform penance in your name. Come and take me and if not now and if not then, then maybe in one in my million lives, I must obtain your mercy.

I am waiting.

Well

they should have seen it coming.

[bunall4g1-blog]

The Quest For Pra Somdej Muan

Also known as a good luck charm, the Thai amulets are worn by people around their neck to protect themselves from trouble and diseases. As early as A. D. 1220 the virtues of beryl (Golden Beryl and Morganite) were well established in legend. Beryl provided help against foes in battle or litigation, made the wearer unconquerable, but at the same time friendly and likable, and also sharpened the wearer's intellect and cured laziness. Today beryl is considered important, but primarily for aesthetic reasons. The variety of colors in which it is found, its wonderful clarity (except for emerald), its brilliance, and its durability (again with the exception of emerald) have given the various varieties of beryl tremendous appeal. Amber is not a stone, but rather an amorphous, fossilized tree sap. It was one of the earliest substances used for personal adornment. Modestly decorated pieces of rough amber have been found in Stone Age excavations and are assumed to have been used as amulets and talismans; a use definitely recorded throughout history before, during, and since the ancient Greeks. Because of its beautiful color and the ease with which it could be fashioned, amber quickly became a favorite object of trade and barter and personal adornment. Amber varies from transparent to semi-translucent, and from yellow to dark brown in color; occasionally it's seen in reddish and greenish brown tones. In addition, amber can be dyed many colors. Occasionally, on can find "foreign" fragments or insects that were trapped in the amber, which usually increases its value because of the added curiosity factor. Sapphire the "celestial" sapphire, symbol of the heaven, guardian of innocence, bestower of truth and good health, preserver of chastity, is in fact the mineral corundum. While we know it best in its blue varieties, which is highly prized, it comes in essentially every color; red corundum is ruby. As with with ruby, its sister gemstone, sapphire is characterized by hardness, brilliance, and availability in many beautiful colors, all of which make it probably the most important and most versatile of the gem families. browse around these guys can compare money and the power of its impact on a person to a mirror. After all, it shows who we really are. For example, if you woke up in complete discord with yourself in the morning, your hair is disheveled, your eyes would not open, the mirror will reflect you in this form, without any artifice. If you tidy yourself, went jogging, took a shower, styled your hair, the reflection in the mirror will show you a well-groomed, beautiful, smiling woman. The tradition of Nawarat Koe Par goes far back in Burma's, present-day Myanmar's, ancient history; the times in which only Kings, members of royal families and companions of and advisors to Kings and Queens were allowed to possess and wear a Nawarat Koe Par. Common people were apart from the fact that they did usually not have the financial means needed for such a precious and valuable ring not allowed to posses and wear a Nawarat. They faced heavy penalties in case they should not strictly adhere by this royal edict. This edict was a protective measure taken by kings and queens that was deeply rooted in their belief in and reverence to the supernatural as well as their fear of it. Nothing was allowed that according to their belief was capable of endangering their almighty position. People were, by the by, put to death for much lesser 'wrongdoings'. Tod Kathin is the time at the end of the rainy season that is celebrated with processions around temples and temple fairs. People visit temples in.their home towns or villages and it is regarded as meritorious to help out a needy temple in a poor part of the country. Arriving at the temple, the faithful present the monks with new robes, pillows, food, and money. One of the great spectacles of the Kathin season was the Royal Barge Procession along the Chao Phraya River which is only rarely performed these days. A total of 84,000 amulets were made (in various shapes and forms of the Benjapakee amulet collection. Because of the short time window available for the pressing of the 84,000 amulets, due to King Rama 4s order to complete the construction of the new Chedi by 2408, the amulets had to be presses in more than one temple, namely Wat Rakang and Wat Prataat Panom. The quantities of the various ingredients differ between the two temples, as do the outer appearance. For example, Jao Khun Tamma Taanaa (Jao Khun Naeb), who was responsible for many of the pressings at Wat Rakang, applied Ya Rak (a black laquer like liquid) and gold leaf to the amulets.

[munichasia]

Another stunning temple in Bangkok 💛 Thailand - Wat Ratchabophit 🇹🇭📸💯😊🙏 The abbot of the temple is Somdet Phra Ariyavongsagatanana, the current Supreme Patriarch of Thailand. Wat Ratchabophit or formally Wat Ratchabophit Sathitmahasimaram Ratchaworawihan, is a Buddhist temple on Atsadang Road, Bangkok, along Khlong Khu Mueang Doem, not far from Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. The temple was built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn. The temple features a unique layout, with its wiharn and ubosot joined by a circular courtyard, at the center of which stands a gilded chedi. The golden chedi (43m high) is covered with orange-coloured tiles and on top of the chedi, there is a golden ball. There is a relic of Buddha inside and the chedi was built in Sri Lankan style. The ordination hall has 10 door panels and 28 window panels each decorated with gilded black lacquer on the inside. . . . #watratchabophit #templeinbangkok #buddhisttemple #buddhisttemples #visitbangkok #webangkok #bangkokcity #bangkokspirit #bangkoktravel #bangkoktrip #bangkokview #bbkk  #travelbangkok #travelthailand #beautifulthailand #discoverthailand #ilovethailand #thaiculture #thailand_allshot #thailand_ig #thailandgram #thailandinsider #thailandismagic #thailandphotography #thailandtourism #thailandtrip #lostinthailand #unseenthailand #wheninthailand #tourismthailand (at Bangkok, Thailand) https://www.instagram.com/p/CiH0cfyMnKn/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[hadeschan]

item # P4C007

RARE Pra Somdej Toh Hak, Luang Phu Thong Wat Sampao Choie, Roon Pra That Chedi, Nua Thong Samrit. A cast bronze Buddha amulet with figure of Buddha in Maravichai Gesture seating on a lotus flower and a broken leg table, and in the back is with a Chedi (stupa), and 2 of Yant Gam-nert. Made by Luang Phu Thong, the Abbot of Wat Sampao Choie, Pattani Province as a fundraiser Batch for the construction of a Buddha Relic Chedi of Wat Sampao Choie in BE 2549 (CE 2006).

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Pra Somdej Toh Hak (a broken leg table amulet)

Legend has it that a woman came to visit Luang Phu Thong at Wat Sampao Choie for a “Khong Dee”, an amulet that makes a lot of money on her street stall selling Krathong[1] on Loy Krathong Day[2]. Luang Phu Thong gave her a Buddha Amulet (Pra Somdej), and wished her a good luck. Amazingly, her Krathong Stall was with hundreds of customers crowded around queuing to buy only her Krathong, and left other stalls no customers. The crowded customers were pushing each other and later made her stall table collapsed, and caused a broken leg of the table. The Buddha amulet that Luang Phu Thong gave to that woman was called “Pra Somdej Toh Hak”, a Buddha amulet that made the table leg of street stall broken ever since!

[1]Krathong is a ritual vessel made from banana tree trunk and banana leaves, held together with pins, and decorated with flowers.

[2]Loy Krathong Day is a Thai festival celebrated annually throughout the Kingdom of Thailand and in nearby countries with significant South Western Tai cultures (Laos, Shan, Mon, Tanintharyi, Kelantan, Kedah and Xishuangbanna). The name could be translated as "to float ritual vessel or lamp," and comes from the tradition of making Krathong or buoyant, decorated baskets, which are then floated on a river. Many Thais use the Krathong to thank the Goddess of Water, Phra Mae Khongkha (Thai: พระแม่คงคา) or to worship the Buddha's hair pagoda in the heaven. This festival can see the traces of its origin back to both India and China.

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Yant Gam-nert

The Hypnotic Spiral Cabalistic Writings or Yant Gam-nert in Thai, it is believed that this magical Yant Gam-nert has a power of hypnosis those persons who are around the amulet with Yant Gam-nert would be hypnotized they would be put in trance states, and do whatever you direct them to.

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Thong Samrit

Thong Samrit in Thai refers to bronze with high content of gold. The pronunciation of Samrit in Thai is also similar to the meaning of achievement, accomplishment, and success.

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BEST FOR: Kaa Kaai Dee (it helps tempt your customers to buy whatever you are selling, and it helps attract new customers and then keep them coming back, and encourages customers that provide high sales and high profit. You can also significantly boost your profitability. Metta Maha Niyom (it helps bring loving, caring, and kindness, and compassion from people all around you to you), Maha Larp (it brings Lucky Wealth / wealth fetching). Klawklad Plodpai (it brings safety, and pushes you away from all danger), Kongkraphan (it makes you invulnerable to all weapon attack), Maha-ut (it stops gun from shooting at you or the shooter misses aiming target). And Ponggan Poot-pee pee-saat Kunsai Mondam Sa-niat jan-rai Sat Meepit (it helps ward off evil spirit, demon, bad ghost, bad omen, bad spell, curse, accursedness, black magic, misfortune, doom, and poisonous animals).

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DIMENSION: 3.30 cm high / 2.30 cm wide / 0.50 cm thick

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item # P4C007

Price: price upon request, pls PM and/or email us hadeschan@gmx.us

100% GENUINE WITH 365 DAYS AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEE.

Item location: Hong Kong, SAR

Ships to: Worldwide

Delivery: Estimated 7 days handling time after receipt of cleared payment. Please allow additional time if international delivery is subject to customs processing.

Shipping: FREE Thailandpost International registered mail. International items may be subject to customs processing and additional charges.

Payments: PayPal / Western Union / MoneyGram /maybank2u.com / DBS iBanking / Alipay / Wechat Pay / PromptPay International

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[thequirkycoach]

This beautiful Thai goddess contemplates life beside a lily pond. She lives at Wat Pha Nam Yoi, an enormous Buddhist Temple in North East #Thailand 🙏🏻��🙏🏻 The temple houses Phra Mahachedi Chai Mongkhon, one of Thailand’s largest Chedis(stupas, religious relic structures). The white Chedi is embellished with golden motifs and surrounded by smaller Chedis at the eight directions. It is beautifully decorated with a mixture of an ancient and contemporary-style of art. ❤️ #mindbodyspirit #mbstravel #thailandtravel #spiritualawakening #thaitourism (at Wat Pha Nam Yoi - Isaan Buddhist Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/BqJ27bHD3qO/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=zle061szjrnz

[paworn]

Phra Borommathat Chaiya - The structure is strikingly similar to the classic Javanese candi with its square base and rectangular-shaped main single chamber and a single pyramidal roof topped with many small dome-shaped stupas in multiple tiers on every side and corner. The stupa underwent major renovation during the reign of King Rama V of Siam with additions of gold-leaf decorations and modification of the central chedi on the top. (at วัดพระบรมธาตุไชยาราชวรวิหาร) https://www.instagram.com/p/CNOtIQQL41s/?igshid=h2v2ts1fzd90

[saltywaveaustralia]

I visited Wat Chalong a place of worship for Bhuddists in Phuket. The temples here were built in the early 1800s and one of the temples called the Chedi houses a bone fragment from Bhudda. All the temples are ornately decorated with paintings and gold statues. Buddhists come to adorn statues with gold leaf, give lotus flowers or set fire crackers off to pray or to say thank you when their wish has come true. Wat Chalong is a significant site to Buddhist’s and a beautiful place for visitors to explore.

A bit about this song:

‘ Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu is a Sanskrit mantra which means: “May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.”

Source: https://insighttimer.com/devavasuda/guided-meditations/guided-mantra-meditation-to-give-peace-to-all-beings-lokah-samastah-sukhino-

#phuket #amazingthailand #watchalong #buddha #buddhism #travelphotography #saltywave #visualstoryteller

[matt-molloy]

"The Golden Home of Buddha's Bones"

The legend of how this temple came to be is a fun story, but like many of the legends from long ago, parts of it seem pretty hard for me to believe.

Here's how Wikipedia tells it... "According to legend, a monk named Sumanathera from the Sukhothai Kingdom had a dream. In this vision he was told to go to Pang Cha and look for a relic. Sumanathera ventured to Pang Cha and found a bone. Many claim it was Gautama Buddha's shoulder bone. The relic displayed magical powers: it glowed, it was able to vanish, it could move and replicate itself. Sumanathera took the relic to King Dhammaraja, who ruled Sukhothai. The eager Dhammaraja made offerings and hosted a ceremony when Sumanathera arrived. However, the relic displayed no abnormal characteristics, and the king, doubtful of the relic's authenticity, told Sumanathera to keep it.

King Nu Naone of Lan Na heard of the relic and bade the monk to bring it to him. In 1368, with Dharmmaraja's permission, Sumanathera took the relic to what is now Lamphun, in northern Thailand. Once there, the relic broke into two pieces. The smaller piece was enshrined at a temple in Suandok. The other piece was placed by the king on the back of a white elephant which was released into the jungle. The elephant is said to have climbed up Doi Suthep, at that time called Doi Aoy Chang (Sugar Elephant Mountain), stopped, trumpeted three times, then dropped dead. This was interpreted as an omen. King Nu Naone immediately ordered the construction of a temple at the site." -Wikipedia

This golden chedi is where the alleged piece of Buddha's shoulder bone is stored, among other relics, like the ashes or bones of other important people.

It was very crowded here, and tough to get a shot of the chedi without someone standing in from of it, so I found a relatively safe pace to set up my tripod (next to a wall) and I shot a timelapse. That way I could make a time stack (with the mean stack mode in photoshop) to "erase" all the people, only this place was so crowded that there's still some ghostly remnants of them.

For this image, I stacked 122 photos using the mean stack mode in photoshop. Here's a quick and easy Photoshop tutorial of the process I use to make time stacks. https://youtu.be/oTfp47jTzWc

[roundtheworldrambles]

Chiang Mai, Thailand - Part 1

Day 157 – Chiang Mai

Thai Market

I began my first full day in Northern Thailand in the most delicious way possible – with a full day at the Thai Farm Cooking School. Two of my dear friends from Vancouver - Norm and Dejan - had been to Chiang Mai about a month earlier, and had passed on this recommendation as a “must-do!” I was picked up from my hostel in the morning and joined a small group of other travellers, heading 20 minutes out of Chiang Mai and into the countryside. The cooking school was located in a beautiful organic farm, surrounded by fields of grazing water buffalo with mountains visible in the distance. On our way out of town, our instructor Ae took us to a local market for a brief tour, and helped us pick up the various Thai ingredients that we would be using in our cooking, including local vegetables and spices.

Thai Farm Cooking School

Thai Farm Cooking School

For the remainder of the day, we cooked and ate, and then cooked and ate some more! Our cooking stations were set up under a lofty bamboo building with open sides, surrounded by lush gardens and a fishpond. Throughout the day, Ae came around to each of us to offer her wealth of knowledge and tips to make the perfect Thai recipes! In total, I learned to cook 6 common dishes found in Northern Thailand, including Tom Yam Soup (hot and sour soup), Kaeng Kha Ri Gai (yellow curry), Poh Piah Tod (spring rolls), Som Tam (papaya salad), Gai Phad Met Mamuang Him Mapaan (stir-fried cashew nut chicken) and Khao Neow Ma Muang (mango and sticky rice). As part of the preparation for each recipe, Ae took us around the organic farm, to educate us on the herbs and vegetables needed in our dishes, and show us how to properly pick the fresh ingredients. It was fascinating to learn about how iconic Thai flavours were built up and created in each of these dishes. Our group ate each completed dish together, taking a break from cooking to chat and relax. In the late afternoon, we returned to Chiang Mai – completely full and very happy. Ae was incredibly kind to us, and made sure to send us on our way with a Thai cookbook so that we could try to recreate these dishes at home! It was a terrific kickoff to my time in Northern Thailand.

Thai Farm Cooking School

Day 158 – Chiang Mai

My second day in Chiang Mai had little agenda aside from meandering around the city to explore – and eating as much delicious Northern Thai food as possible! Surrounded by mountain ranges, Chiang Mai is the second-largest province in Thailand, and was the historic and cultural capital of the Lanna Kingdom from the 1200s to 1500s. In Thai, Lanna translates to “The Kingdom of A Million Rice Fields”, an apt description of the surrounding countryside! At the height of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai was also the centre of Buddhism in Thailand, which is reflected in over 300 temples, or “Wats” scattered throughout the city. The city also has strong Burmese influences, as the Lanna Kingdom was occupied by Burma for approximately 300 years, between the mid 1500s to 1800s. This is mostly seen in the incredible architecture found throughout the city.  The old city of Chiang Mai is a near perfect square, surrounded by a moat and ancient walls, which were actually designed to protect and defend against Burmese invaders. I could see that many of these walls and ramparts were still standing as I entered the historic centre of the city.

One of the Many Stupas around Chiang Mai

As I began to explore Chiang Mai, there was a noticeable spiritual feeling throughout the city. I immediately found that Northern Thailand had a much more relaxed feeling than the Thai Islands that I had just come from. Around every corner I would spot a new temple, easily identified by their ornamented, tiered roofs. Buddhist monks could be seen walking in the streets, dressed in their distinctive orange robes and sandals. Tropical flowers and greenery spilled over the walls lining the streets. Motorcycles parked on the walkways, their sidecars packed to the brim with young coconuts. If you were thirsty, you could buy a coconut, which the vendor would slice open for you with a machete, so you could drink the coconut water inside. Prayer flags and lanterns were strung across gated courtyards, gently fluttering in the humid breeze. While the gated city centre was fairly pedestrian friendly, I also had to keep an eye open for scooters, tuk-tuks, and Songthaews (Chiang Mai’s iconic, bright-red shared taxis) hurtling down the narrow streets and alleys!

As I explored Chiang Mai, I began to gain a better understanding of the multiple spiritual influences and religions that have been historically practiced in Northern Thailand. In addition to Buddhism, which is followed by the majority of the population, Animism - or spirit worship – was also evident throughout the streets of Chiang Mai. The most prevalent example is the ornate spirit homes found in front of houses and businesses. Raised on pillars, these colourful, dollhouse like homes are intended to provide a home for the guardian spirits of the land, so that the spirits do not come into the buildings and bother people. Daily offerings are made to the spirits, in the form of candles, flowers, incense, bowls of fruit. These spirit homes can be found around almost every corner, and are sometimes up on the roofs of buildings!

Spirit Homes in Chiang Mai

I spent much of my day exploring the incredible Lanna temples in the historic centre of Chiang Mai – in particular Wat Phantao, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra Singh. The ornate architecture, sculptures and fluttering prayer flags surrounding these historic temples were completely mesmerizing. Many of the facades were gilded and decorated with intricate mosaic tiles. Giant golden and white stupas (large mounds or spires) were scattered throughout the temple grounds. Historically used for burials or holding relics, stupas (also called ‘chedis’ in Chiang Mai) are constructed in all shapes and sizes, and are used as landmarks and objects of worship. The inside of the prayer halls were no less impressive. Countless golden Buddha sculptures (and one replica of the famous Emerald Buddha) could be found on alters at the front of the halls, where bare-footed worshippers would kneel and give their tributes to Buddha. Each temple was slightly different, with its own set-up and architecture. At the larger temples, it was common to see monks, both young and old, walking between the different buildings, some of which were used for monastic and Buddhism education.

Wat Chedi Luang

It was a truly incredible day, and hard to believe just how many Wats were scattered throughout the city. I wandered down larger streets and narrow alleys alike, following no planned route in order to get a sense of the historic city. Stopping occasionally along my way, I sampled various local cuisines – from drinking water from a young coconut that had been freshly cut open, to drinking Thai Iced Tea, a sweet, orange-coloured beverage made with condensed milk. I also made sure to try Khao Soi, a Lanna egg-noodle dish the region is famous for – made with tofu, coconut milk, shallots, pickled cabbage, chilli paste and lime. It was so good I made sure to have one bowl a day for the remainder of my time in Chiang Mai!

Khao Soi

In the late afternoon, I headed back to my hostel to rest for a few hours, tired and happy for some air conditioning to balance out the tropical heat of the day. After a quick power nap, cold shower and change of clothes, I headed back out into the city as the evening fell. Chiang Mai was just as lively at night, and walking along the narrow streets into the city centre, I was able to see into the homes and shops along the roadside – dimly-lit garages with people doing scooter repairs, Thai massage parlours, food stalls, tourist bars, and family homes alike. As I walked towards the main centre, various hawkers and shopkeepers called out to me – offering everything from a traditional Thai Sak Yant tattoo, to a roadside table for dinner! I had timed my visit to Chiang Mai to include a weekend, as I had heard great things about the city’s iconic Saturday and Sunday Night Walking Street Markets. I made my way over to Wualai street, opposite Chiang Mai Gate, and encountered the biggest street market I had ever seen, packed as far as the eye could see with stalls selling everything from food, handicrafts, artwork, Thai Silks and cottons, silverware, wood carvings, jewellery, antiques, embroidery, and woven baskets – to name a few! The amount of people and the sheer scale of the market was somewhat overwhelming. I spent the next few hours meandering between the stalls and admiring the original Lanna goods for sale. As I was planning to return to the (even bigger!) Sunday market the following night, I didn’t buy anything, but made note of the products I would look for the following evening. After my full day exploring the city, I opted to head back to my hostel fairly early, as I would be getting up early the following morning to head into the Thai Countryside.

[indy-diary]

Entry 5 : Chiang Mai (Day 3), Casual Visits

27 Feb 2018

Oh hello! Indy is still in Chiang Mai! This is the third day I’m here and I planned on visiting somewhere today. It’s probably less boring than the previous entry.. Well, I hope!

But still, the point of this excuse trip is mostly for nostalgia and favorite food so… the places I will visit is once again, places I used to often go.

Quiet corner in a temple

Temples in Chiang Mai are popular places for tourists, especially for Americans, Europeans and Chinese. Temples in Thailand are of course, Buddhist ones, each with unique architecture, history and decoration. Chiang Mai is much like other ancient Thai cities, having temples in many areas within the city areas.

I may not be the type who likes to visit temples often, but there is one I often do, at the very least, once a year. This temple is somewhere in not so far from Ta Pae gate. Its name is “Wat Chedi Luang” which means “royal pagoda temple”. This temple is actually quite popular among tourists as well, but wasn’t my main reason of visit this time.

(Undisturbed and peaceful)

This is the old ordination hall. It doesn’t seem to be used right now, but anyways, the walls around it is truly a place that should be quiet. It’s where remains of of the people are kept. Many temples allow some spaces in the walls to be use to keep the remains from cremation of the people, just like here. Unlike other areas where tourists are around and admire the beauty and uniqueness of this temple, this area is completely devoid of tourists. Only people I see here are locals and monks.

Obviously, me and my brother are here because someone is here. I have no intentions to disrespect the dead. I won’t go into details about this much because this is an area that should be left in peace. Only relatives and friends should be here. But anyways, we came to pay respects to my late grandmother and uncle. I did not take any pictures of the area to keep the place in peace.

In contrast

After we’re done, we took a small stroll within the temple. We’re already here and we’ve got time, so why not?

(How beautiful would this be if it wasn’t in this state?)

On the other side of the temple, there’s a plenty of things to see, like this big structure. I’m not sure how to explain what it is and what it is for, but this is one of the most iconic landmark of the temple. I’m sorry I couldn’t provide much details.

(Another angle of the same landmark. You can see that there’s a Buddha image up there too!)

The structure seen in the picture wasn’t the only tourist attraction in the temple. The other areas of the temple, including buildings within are also popular among tourists. I’ve got some pictures of the other parts.

(You could see some tourists around)

(More tourists, and some shades)

Like how temples should be, the area within the temple walls are quiet and relaxing. Temples aren’t only for religious practices, but are also for relaxation and other peaceful activities. On top of that, they’re also now tourist attractions!

By the by, there is a rule, well, maybe not an exact rule. It’s more of giving respect to the place and people. This sign here says about it.

(Please dress appropriately)

It’s never really a problem for me because I am a person who really like long skirts and regular T-shirts. Unless there’s a uniform, I’ve never been told that I dress inappropriately (unless there’s a place where long skirt is inappropriate).

Out of boredom

So now after leaving the temple, we had no idea where to go next. Then suddenly we decide we would visit the train station again because we didn’t have time to explore around or take pictures during the day we arrived, and we may not have chances to do it on the day we take return trip.

(It’s pretty small, but it has trains!)

So here we are! Chiang Mai Railway Station, the terminus of the northern line. Like most of other railway stations in Thailand, it’s old, and has old stuffs. To be honest, this station is pretty small for a terminal. There’s only 3 platforms and the rest of the area were garage and yard for stuffs. There’s also a retired steam locomotive in the parking lot. There’s actually a lot of these steam locomotive scattered around in stations around the country, but not all stations have them!

Anyways, we took some stroll along and happened to see another relic from the past…

(What else could that be?)

It’s a turntable! But from the looks, it’s probably no longer used since now our locomotive have cabs on both ends. (you can see pictures in this and previous entries), unlike the old steam ones where it can only face one direction. It’s long thought between us siblings that it had been demolished due to no longer being necessary, but we were surprised they kept it! It’s too bad that we can no longer see it in operation, but this is good enough. Maybe next time we’ll have a look at another station where turntable still operates everyday. We know there’s one!

It was getting quite hot so we had to take some shelter inside the station. We had a look at the timetable and then walked along the platform because we see a train.  

(There’s trains on BOTH platforms!)

So yes, trains! We’re walking along the platform with trains, but sadly, neither had locomotive or generations active. Realizing their schedule, it’s right that they won’t be. They would be leaving in the evening, but we were at the station around 1-2 pm. Well at least we get to look and compare the two trains! One was rapid, and another was special express. The special express one is longer and has more air-conditioned cars. The ticket for special express is also more expensive than rapid one as well. There’s also another special express nearby, but there’s no possible photo angle for it. That special express was Uttrawithee, the special express mentioned to be my favorite in earlier entries. Like the other one, it’s also inactive. The shiny silver exterior of Uttrawithee really stands out among other (soooo) purple trains, and that’s one reason I love it! Also, personally, I prefer silver over purple.

Between the two platforms, there’s a small replica of a famous tourist attraction in Chiang Mai so I decided to take picture of it.

(one of very very famous place, indeed)

This is replica of the pagoda on Wat Pratat Doi Suthep. The temple sits on the titular mountain, Doi Suthep. As said in last entry, the mountain is right next to the town and from there, the Chiang Mai town can be seen. The temple is also beautiful and iconic in itself. It is so iconic that almost every pamphlets, tourist guide, tour websites, and TV program about Chiang Mai will feature it (including this one actually haha!).

(Grandpa! Are you on the work again?)

Having walked past the train cars, we saw an active locomotive running on a far track. It’s clearly a GE, the “grandpa” of the trains here. This grandpa seem to be used for shunting within the station. The train in the left side platform in earlier image was originally on another track, but grandpa put it here. After that grandpa immediately went off and go into another track.

(More locomotives! If you squint you can see number of another one in the gap behind the foreground one)

This part is in the direction the grandpa GE went. There appeared to be more locomotives here. I took a guess these would be ones to lead the trains to destination. We took a look from here and noticed that there were Alsthom, GEA, and Hitachi around. These being 2500 horsepower (2400 for Alsthom) locomotives, they’ll be able to pull long trains and cross steep mountains like Khun Tan. They’re most likely for rapid, express, and special express trains.

Before we left, I asked my brother to stop at one more place. I’ve noticed its presence since the day I arrived, but I didn’t have time to take picture of it back then… so anyways, here!

(Tiny Khun Tan tunnel, complete with the trains!)

This cutie is a replication of how the Khun Tan Station looks. Khun Tan Station is right in front of the longest railway tunnel in Thailand, and is also one of the toughest train routes due to the mountain being steep. It is one of the most memorable places for anyone who works or travel with trains.

I really like the touch they made with this, even though it’s not very detailed or realistic. I like how the place is portrayed and the trains, and the people were placed. It gives feeling of an active station on top of a mountain, and in front of a tunnel. There’s at least 12 trains passing through it each day (counting both trips of each train.)

On note that the trains’ colors were accurate, but no longer. These little trains were probably made before the repaint and repair operation since they were still painted in old colors. However, there’s one thing that irks me….  The grandpa GE’s front side. In this it’s flat, but in reality it’s slanted. Oh well, but it’s only small mistake so I’ll let it slide.

We then drank some water and discussed where to next, or tomorrow. We initially was going to visit more locations, but we changed our minds due to some problems and concluded the day with… napping and eating dinner (lol). But anyways, next entry will be Chiang Mai Zoo! We’ll be heading there and do some sightseeing about the animals. It’ll be a fun one!

[teacherfirstfc]

There is a small cafe near Stupa behind the temple and next to the market. I love leech lime juice. Good smell of herb and refreshing on the hot day like this. Good decoration! It’s perfect time after shopping at the market. #coffeetime #coffeelover #coffeeshop #รีวิวสุพรรณบุรี #เฟิร์สเพลินพุง (at Cafe Chedi l คาเฟ่-เจดีย์) https://www.instagram.com/p/B6nAH72JSBO/?igshid=ohizrw97ssf3

[munichasia]

Another stunning temple in Bangkok 💛 Thailand - Wat Ratchabophit 🇹🇭📸💯😊🙏 The abbot of the temple is Somdet Phra Ariyavongsagatanana, the current Supreme Patriarch of Thailand. Wat Ratchabophit or formally Wat Ratchabophit Sathitmahasimaram Ratchaworawihan, is a Buddhist temple on Atsadang Road, Bangkok, along Khlong Khu Mueang Doem, not far from Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. The temple was built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn. The temple features a unique layout, with its wiharn and ubosot joined by a circular courtyard, at the center of which stands a gilded chedi. The golden chedi (43m high) is covered with orange-coloured tiles and on top of the chedi, there is a golden ball. There is a relic of Buddha inside and the chedi was built in Sri Lankan style.[1] The ordination hall has 10 door panels and 28 window panels each decorated with gilded black lacquer on the inside. . . . #watratchabophit #templeinbangkok #buddhisttemple #buddhistmonk #buddhisttemples #asiaphotography #asianwanderlust #asiatour  #asiatravel  #asiatravels  #asiatrip   #südostasien  #thisisasia  #travelinasia  #tv_asia #visitseasia  #destinationasia  #fever_asia #amazingthailand #tourismthailand #thailandtourism #unseenthailand #thailand_ig #thailandgram #bangkokcity #visitbangkok #webangkok #bangkoktravel (at Wat Ratchabophit) https://www.instagram.com/p/Chq5skJv6lB/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=