Wat Thai Temple, Bodh Gaya

At a distance of 700 m from Mahabodhi Temple, and 1 km from Bodh Gaya Bus Station, Wat Thai is a Thai monastery located in Bodhgaya, Bihar, India.

Popularly known as Thai Monastery, Wat Thai Buddhagaya was established in 1956 by the government of Thailand on the request of the former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to strengthen the relationship between the two countries. It is the only Thai Temple in India.

Next to the Thai temple is a 25-metre statue of Buddha located within a garden which has existed there for over 100 years.

Entering the temple gate.

Thai Temple Facade. Known for its exceptional architecture and stunning beauty, Wat Thai Bodhgaya is strikingly similar to the temples of Bangkok and is richly gilt and highly ornamental. It has a sloping roof covered with golden tiles.

Thai Temple Door with Yakshas. The temple door faces north. Shoes are left at the entrance. Yakshas are an important element in Thai temple art and architecture. They are common as guardians of the gates in Buddhist temples throughout the country since at least the 14th century. They are mostly depicted with a characteristic face, having big round bulging eyes and protruding fangs, as well as a green complexion. See more at Yakshas in Thailand - Wikipedia.

Main Buddha Statue. The sanctum of the temple houses a carved gigantic bronze statue of Buddha. One can also find several images relating to the life of Buddha that have been carved with Buddhist scriptures.

Statue of Buddha. A 25 m high statue of Buddha has been recently built in the garden near the Wat Thai Temple.

See also

• Mahabodhi Temple by Night
• Tara Temple Inauguration
• Mahabodhi Temple
• Chinese Temple
• Karma Temple
• Great Buddha
• Tara Temple 3D Mandalas
• Tara Temple Morning Prayer

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Source

• Category:Wat Thai, Bodh Gaya - Wikimedia Commons

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Location