Wat Phai Rong Wua

A Thai temple, off the tourist track

By Grant Cameron

June 7^th, 2014

A surprise awaits

As one drives through the paddy fields just south of Suphanburi province, tree lined roads and lush green fields of paddy give way to a giant appearing above the trees: a 26 metre white stucco Buddha statue.

Not one, but many

The “wow” sensation of seeing a gigantic Buddha in the middle of nowhere, off the much beaten tourist track, quickly elicits another “wow”, as there are many much smaller Buddha statues all over this temple.

9 storeys high

Yes, that’s how high this Buddha is, all 26 metres of it.

Differing views

Some snapshots of various areas of the temple, and from outside, showing how imposing is this whole temple area.

Being Insensitive

Not really the done thing, but this image is taken from the plinth of a tall standing Buddha behind the large seated Buddha. Not only that, but from between the Buddha’s legs. I’m sure to be going to Buddha Hell (as you’ll see shortly).

Solitude

Unique in a field of over 100 2, 3 and 4 metre large Buddha statues, this one rather stands out.

Standing tall

Having shot images through his legs, it was appropriate to “thank” this 12 metre tall statue from a viewpoint that gives him back respect.

Heaven and Hell

In the grounds of this temple are many statues illustrating exactly what happens to you if you do not lead a simple and good life. Various “punishments” are on display quite befitting the alleged crimes.

Resting Places

The Buddha statues are actually the final resting places of local worthies, whose ashes are interred in the plinths upon which they sit.

Never alone

It is quite erie, being alone, not a tourist in sight, only an odd local in the far distance, and surrounded by this quiet staring multitude of Buddhas.