Monk Baskets

Monk baskets

If you are out and about shopping in Thailand you may notice some shops selling orange baskets or buckets which contain a number of everyday items like soap, detergent and toothpaste. These buckets are bought by lay-people who then donate them to monks or to the temple. By doing this, the person … [Read more...]

Makha Bucha Public Holiday

Makha Bucha Day, Thailand

Today is a public holiday in Thailand to mark Makha Bucha Day. It's an important date on the Thai Buddhist calendar and temples throughout the country will be busy today, particularly in the evening. If you are intent on enjoying the nightlife in Thailand today it will depend on where you are. … [Read more...]

Buddhist Words of Wisdom

sign at Wat Umong, Chiang Mai, Thailand

You don’t have to be religious to enjoy Thailand’s wats (temples) and many first-time visitors to Thailand are surprised about the relaxed atmosphere in the grounds of most temples. Naturally, you should always dress and act respectfully when visiting wats, but you will also notice that temples … [Read more...]

Buddhist Public Holiday in Thailand

Today and tomorrow are public holidays in Thailand with government offices closed. Although many shops will be open, a number of bars and entertainment venues may be closed or have a more subdued atmosphere than normal. Those that do remain open may be discrete about serving alcohol so if you do … [Read more...]

Buddha Images for Each Day of the Week

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When you visit temples in Thailand, you may notice a line of Buddha images in different poses. Each image reflects specific events in the life of Buddha which occurred on different days of the week. In Thailand, the day of the week on which you are born is considered important and so Thai Buddhists … [Read more...]

Releasing Animals to Make Merit

In Thailand, many Buddhists believe that releasing animals back into the wild can help an individual to accrue merit. The act of releasing animals has its roots in the traditional rural communities. In the dry season, rice fields and small ponds would dry out and some fish, turtles and other aquatic … [Read more...]

Big Buddha Ko Samui

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If you are flying to Ko Samui, keep an eye out for the largest Buddha figure on the island which is clearly visible as you come in to land. For a close up view, visit Wat Phra Yai the temple which is home to the Big Buddha and overlooks Bangrak Beach (also known as Big Buddha Beach) in the … [Read more...]