Emerald Buddha, Bangkok: How To Reach, Best Time & Tips

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Emerald Buddha Overview

Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew is a 15th century Buddha statue that has been carved from green jasper(a semi-precious stone) and clothed in gold. This approximately 66 centimeters tall statue depicts Gautam Buddha sitting in the lotus position and meditating.

Also known as Phra Phuttha Maha Mani Rattana Patimakon, Emerald Buddha is considered Thailand’s sacred palladium and is housed inside the Temple of Emerald Buddha, which is located in the Grand Palace premises in Bangkok. The costumes of the Emerald Buddha are ceremonially changed thrice a year as per the seasons.

This statue was first found in 1434 CE in Chiang Rai of northern Thailand after the stucco wall of a Buddhist Stupa was cracked open by lightning. Nothing is known about its past before that, making it one of the most mystical figurines that are considered to have some spiritual power. Travel enthusiasts looking to explore such intriguing artifacts can consider Thailand packages for an immersive experience in the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.

The only information about it is gathered from the palm leaf manuscript named the Chronicle of the Emerald Buddha, found in Chiang Mai and written in the Pali language. As per this manuscript, the statue was crafted by a Sarvastivadan Buddhist Monk in 43 BCE in Patliputra, India.

The exterior of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is made of dark blue, orange, and green glazed roof tiles, golden carvings, glittering mosaics, and bronze bells, giving it an extraordinarily beautiful view. The emerald statue is placed on a high pedestal inside the temple with two Buddha statues on both sides, which are about three meters tall. The inner and outer walls of the temple are covered in murals about the world as per Buddhist cosmology and scenes from Ramakein (Hindu epic Ramayana’s version from Thailand) respectively.

There are six pairs of Yakshas or giant demon guardians guarding the entrance of the temple and protecting it from any evil spirits.

Other Essential Information

Here is the list of best places to eat near Temple of the Emerald Buddha:

1. Buddha & Pals Café and Jazz bar: Buddha & Pals Café and Jazz bar is a breezy place close to the Temple of Emerald Buddha. You will just fall in love with the interior decor of this place as well as the atmosphere. You can relish local Thai cuisine and some refreshing drinks.

2. Home Cafe Tha Tien: Located next to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, it is one of the best places to delight your taste buds with the local Thai delicacies. The food at this place is very affordable and the staff members are very hospitable.

3. Krisa Coffee House: Krisna Coffee House is one of the most convenient locations to have food near the Temple of Emerald Buddha. This place is known for its good and tasty food. You will also be catered to by the warmth and hospitality.

Insider Tips for Visiting Emerlad Buddha

-Photography inside the premises of the temple is strictly prohibited.

-You can hire a personal audio guide from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

-The audio guide is available in a number of international languages, including, English, French, German, Japanese, Mandarin Russian, and Spanish.

-You need to put on a proper dress code while visiting this place as it is considered to be holy for the Buddhists.

-When you are offering your prayers in front of the Buddha Image, you should make sure that your feet should not face the face of the sculpture.

Emerald Buddha FAQs

Why is the Emerald Buddha important?

The Emerald Buddha is powered with the legitimacy to the king and the protector to the nation. The image of Buddha was constructed as a symbol of power for those who are able to possess it.

How to reach Emerald Buddha?

By Subway: The temple of the Emerald buddha is located inside the premises of The Grand Palace complex. Taking a subway would be the best way to reach the temple. You can take BTS to Saphan Taksin Station (S6 Station) and then travel on an express boat for Chao Phraya. After arriving at the Saphan Taksin Station, you can also take a cab or a tuk tuk to cover the rest of the distance.

What is the dress code for Emerald Buddha?

The Emerald Buddha located inside The Grand Palace is considered to be one of the most sacred places for Buddhists in Thailand. For this reason, visitors heading over to this place should put on a decent dress code to show respect to the lord. Men can wear long pants and shirts with sleeves and women can wear clothes that cover the body till their knees. It is highly suggested not to wear any kind of revealing clothes and if you feel you are not properly dressed then you can purchase or rent a sarong from the counter located at the entrance gate.