Wats or places of worship for Buddhists in Thailand are innumerable. These imposing buildings also showcase architecture unique to the country. Wat Chalong, is gracefully positioned with the Andaman Sea as its backdrop. Similarly situated, Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is a suitable place from which to experience the wonders of the island. It is also well-known among many other Phuket luxury hotels. Calming breezes wrap you in a tight embrace when moving around Wat Chalong. Evidently, the Buddha is venerated through many forms of worship in the temple. However, you will also find interesting statues that don’t seem to be closely associated with Buddhism. These are all to be discovered when visiting the temple.
The Grand Pagoda is said to display fragments of Lord Buddha’s bone. The ornately preserved relic and the impressive wall paintings are appealing both culturally and artistically. For worshippers these elements provide the perfect ambiance for religious practices. Faith in the goodness and compassionateness of the Lord Buddha is heightened when calmly observing and silently venerating at the Grand Pagoda.
Pao Than Jao Wat also displays some of the more important Buddhist statues in Wat Chalong. Interestingly, one would also find statues that don’t seem to be conventional symbols of Buddhist worship. Much like guardians of the hall the two statues are supposed to represent Ta Khee-lek also known as grandpa Khee-lek and Nonsi. It is said that grandpa Khee-lek won many lotteries after worshiping and consulting the Poh Than Jao Wat statue. The installation of statues of this kind, in a predominantly Buddhist temple is interesting. It indicates the different forms of worship adopted by Buddhists around the world.
Be aware of your surroundings. Be very modestly dressed, and adopt a behaviour that is respectful. The temple is holy grounds to many.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
