Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Wat Sothorn Wararam Worawihan

             Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan is located about 80km east of Bangkok and it is the main attraction in Chachoengsao province. Situated on the west bank of the Bang Pakong River is Phra Phutthasothon, or “Luang Pho Sothorn“is regarded as one of the most revered Buddha images in Thailand.




             The Buddha image, in meditation posture measures 1.65 metres wide at the lap and 1.98 metres high, is always seen entirely pasted with gold leaves by worshipers. Two annual fairs celebrating the image fall in the 5th and the 12th lunar months (around April and November). 
             The celebrations and the procession of the replica of Luangpho Sothon by land and by river are the great annual event of the province.This is one of the biggest festivals of this province.



             Worshippers come from far all over Thailand to pay homage to Luang Pho Sathorn and also a large group of 20 other Buddha images. What was interesting to see are the Thai dancers dressed in traditional costume that delights worshippers with their daily performance for a small donation. Very similar to the performances performed at the Four-Faced Buddha at the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok.






              However what strike me most was the new tall building of Sothorn Wararam Waravihan temple and which never fails to attract the attention of visitors for its remarkable beauty. It has taken more than 15 years in construction and reflects the strong faith of the local people in Buddhism. The peak is 84 metres high. It is decorated with five golden umbrellas weighing a total of 77 kilogrammes. This is one of the Thailand’s largest temples


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