Wat Suthat

This temple with it's large sitting bronze Budda seems less visited than others thus one can enjoy the serenity and peaceful atmosphere of the place while enjoying the views of the locals receiving their blessings from the monks that are present. There are also a long line of statues under the long roofed arcades.We were there this past June when we thought an umbrella would be in order( rainy season) but that rarely materialized and when it did it was short and sweet.

You know the rainy season in Bangkok (may - august) is not that bad. Some thunderstorms at night and showers in the afternoon but not every day and they are over quickly. You just have to make sure you are sheltered somewhere whilst the heavens let loose on us mortals but do not let that put you off visiting Bagkok as you will enjoy the experience.20 Baht entrance fee.This is the temple with those rows of Bhuddas under a gazebo like structure. Actually the gazebo like structure is inward facing and quadrangular. It surrounds the temple which sits above.Some of the Bhuddas are in Gold with beautiful ornamental bases, stained glass inset in painted and laquered wood.Now the topiary is delightful and the courtyard and temple are a haven of peace from the frenetic traffic in the square outside.There are some interesting statuettes on the quadrangle. Do not go straight into the temple but wander around the quadrangle and look at the many buddhas, some are in black (no gold painting) and when I was there one or two had a golden sash.Now the entrance off the main square (north side) was a 20Baht charge and you were advised there were toilets but I never used them.so cannot comment but a wheelchair user would find this place difficult and the temple in the middle impossible. Mum's this one is not for noisy children because whilst Our Lord and Master (Adonai) loves them, here in this temple the prayer and communion is very QUIET. Sorry mum but this one is not for children who scream.I have to say this temple is not for wheelchair users as well.Now for something completely interesting. A notice at the entrance tells you to secure your shoes as they might go missing! Obviously there has been a problem in the past. One devout buddhist advises me to take a carrier bag with you in which you put your shoes and you would be allowed to take them into the temple but remember you cannot wear them. Do you remember the story of Moses and the burning bush? The idea is the same, when coming into the presence of God, remember you are on holy ground. The idea is that you do not bring the dirt in off the street (Bhuddists would never show soles of their feet to God or point them at the shrine/relics. You kneel down with your feet pointing backwards? Are we not wonderfully made unto a plan?Christians have the same idea, they know God is away of their every thought but choose to think of God and attempt to leave the soil aside when going into Gods' (Elohim) triune presence. OK so I am not perfect but Our God is pleased with the sentiment.Inside the temple is a treat. Serene and people are worshipping here. Amen and because it is about 15-20 minutes walk to the Grand Palace this place is peaceful as the tourists only trickle here.Lots of fans inside but someone needs to turn them on. All the beautiful features both inside and outside that one would expect of any good temple.I remember a shower of rain had just finished and saffron robed monk walked across the quadrangle with his saffron coloured umbrella which doubles as a parasol. Ahhh wonderful moments like this are remembered.30 minutes here is good.Do remember the Giant Swing is just outside in the main square. (Sao Ching Cha). Look up the history.I am off to the City Pillar Shrine now so look out for that review.Peace be with you.(Where have I heard that before)Chris

Wat Suthat's star attraction, a humongous, seated, gilded bronze Buddha statue (the largest of its kind in Thailand) is a sight to behold in its own right. But the icing on the cake? You may very well be the ONLY tourist there ... you can sit in quiet, respectful reflection as long as you like ... you'll also likely see local Thais receiving blessings from the resident monks, all under the serene eyes of that stunning Buddha. The scene is a magnificent blend which is stupendous and peaceful at the same time.Take time too to wander the expansive grounds ... you'll find arcades with lines of gilded Buddha statues stretching out before you, providing some amazing perspective shots for your camera. The monks are also very friendly and approachable.Once you've hit the Bangkok "Biggies" (Top 3: Temples of Emerald Buddha, Reclining Buddha & Dawn), Wat Suthat is definitely worth a side trip. While not quite as stunning in its totality as the Top 3, you will find the peace and quiet an interesting contrast to the more frenetic crowds at those other sites.

Went the Wat Sutat for evening merit during Songkran Festival. Not much crowded, peaceful, and great place to do merit if you are Buddhism