Visiting Surat Thani and the Chaiya Pagoda

A Pilgrimage to the Sacred: Exploring Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya

Nestled amidst the serene landscape of Chaiya district, Surat Thani province, lies the revered Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya. This sacred temple, a cornerstone of the region's cultural and spiritual heritage, beckons pilgrims and visitors alike to embark on a journey of reverence and discovery.

Dating back to the 13th century, Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Srivijaya empire. Its majestic stupa, adorned with intricate carvings and shimmering gold leaf, houses a revered relic – a fragment of the Buddha's collarbone. This sacred relic imbues the temple with an aura of profound significance, attracting devotees from far and wide.

As you approach the temple grounds, a sense of tranquility washes over you. The gentle murmur of prayers mingles with the soft chiming of bells, creating a harmonious symphony that invites reflection and introspection. The intricate murals adorning the temple walls depict scenes from the Buddha's life and teachings, offering a visual narrative of his profound wisdom and compassion.

Within the temple's inner sanctum, the revered stupa stands as a beacon of faith. Devotees offer prayers and light incense, seeking blessings and expressing gratitude. The air is thick with the scent of sandalwood and the soft glow of candlelight, creating an atmosphere of profound reverence.

Beyond its religious significance, Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya also holds immense historical and cultural value. The temple's architecture reflects the architectural styles of the Srivijaya period, showcasing the region's rich artistic heritage. The intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the temple walls and pillars offer a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the people who built it.

A visit to Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya is not merely a religious experience but a journey into the heart of Surat Thani's cultural tapestry. It is an opportunity to connect with the region's rich history, immerse oneself in its spiritual traditions, and find solace in the serene beauty of its sacred spaces.

Let's go make merit together! We set off on a Friday morning in a private car from Surat Thani city on Highway 41, heading towards Chumphon district, approximately 50 kilometers away.

We pass through the Mokkham Garden and turn right at the Mo Khao intersection or follow Highway 4011 for about 2 kilometers to reach our destination.

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We have arrived at the "Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya Ratchawarawihan" temple.

Let's delve into the history of Wat Phra That Chaiya. **Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya Ratchawaramahawihan** is a revered landmark and symbol of Surat Thani province. It houses the sacred relics of the Lord Buddha and stands as the sole Buddhist temple in Thailand that flawlessly preserves the distinctive artistry of the Srivijaya era. Consequently, Wat Phra That Chaiya has held immense significance for the people of Chaiya and Surat Thani since ancient times. This is a brief overview of the temple.

Let's explore the key highlights of the temple.

This is the "Royal Temple".

The interior of the royal temple houses numerous Buddha statues of various sizes.

To the right of the main temple, there are three red sandstone Buddha statues enshrined in the open air on the courtyard within the glass wall. These Buddha statues were built during the Ayutthaya period.

On the left side, there is the "Wihan Luang Pho To", which houses the large Buddha statue, Luang Pho To, dating back to the Ayutthaya period.

Behind the main chapel, there is the "Chaiya Chedi," the only Srivijaya-style architecture that is still in its best condition. It is assumed that it was built in Chaiya during the peak of the Srivijaya era.

The "Phra Rabeang" or "Phra Viharn Khot" surrounds the Phra Borommathat Chaiya Chedi. It has a square plan.

The shrine houses 180 Buddha statues in the Chaiya style, of various sizes and postures. It also features a stupa, a bell tower, and a statue of King Chulalongkorn.

Pay homage and pray for blessings at the Phra Borommathat Chaiya.

Before we leave, here are some photos of the temple's interior.

This trip, we hope that our readers will learn about the cultural attractions, which are important archaeological sites in Surat Thani Province. We also hope that this will be another option for our friends to visit. Finally, thank you to everyone who read the review "Surat Thani Trip to Pay Homage to the Chaiya Chedi" until the end. If there are any mistakes, we apologize here.