A reclining Buddha represents the last stage of his life on Earth
These images were taken about 24 hours apart in two important Thai cities. They both depict Buddha in a reclining pose. Of the various positions he is commonly situated in, the reclining Buddha holds particular spiritual significance. The reclining pose with both feet together represents Buddha on the day that he reached nirvana. Having reached this stage in which he attained complete enlightenment the Buddha then died.
Wat Po in Bangkok, Thailand
Giant head peering down at Wat Po
Wat Po in Bangkok is famous for this giant, iconic reclining Buddha statue. The temple was founded in the seventeenth century. The statue measures approximately 150 feet from head to mother-of-pearl inlaid feet. The temple complex is also home to a traditional center for Thai massage and healing arts. So after a day of touring the mass of urban sprawl which envelops the Thai capital you can soothe your soles.
This giant statue fills the hall
Wat Lokayasutharam in Ayutthaya, Thailand
Ruins of a former capital city
Ayutthaya, Thailand is located about 70 minutes (76 kilometers) north of Bangkok. The capital of Siam from around 1350 until it was burned down in 1767, Ayutthaya contains dozens of temples and religious centers that stand in ruin. Melissa guided our group of 9 cyclists to a reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam. Locating this enormous statue constructed of brick and mortar was not easy. Vendors sell flowers, incense, and candles for visitors to pay respect.
Biking and praying in Thailand
sending...