BANGKOK: Foreign tourists in Thailand joined locals on Sunday (May 11) to observe Visakha Bucha Day (Wesak Day), honouring the birth, enlightenment, and Parinirvana (passing) of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism.
Many were seen exploring temples, where most religious and community activities are being held throughout the day, to mark the occasion.
Hsu, 33, a Taiwanese tourist on holiday in Bangkok, said she followed her tour guide's advice to visit temples in the city.
She expressed her excitement after visiting the famed Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, a temple located near the Chao Phraya River.
"In my opinion, Thais have a deep passion and enthusiasm for Buddhist activities. I feel that this country is more engaged in Buddhism than Taiwan. I saw many antique Buddhist amulets in the temple,” she said when met at Wat Paknam.
Hsu, from Taipei, who is visiting Thailand for the first time, said she was astonished to experience the special occasion, where she could hear monks and devotees chanting throughout the temple.
There are over 40,000 wats (Buddhist temples) across the country, while saffron-clad monks are a common sight during this period.
Another tourist, Mohammed Rafiq, 25, from Iraq, said he and his wife decided to visit temples in Thailand based on recommendations from locals.
He expressed amazement at the intricate architecture and grand designs of the temples and the Buddha statues.
"This is our first time visiting Thailand, and it’s an eye-opener for us to witness so many Buddhist devotees chanting and making merit at local temples,” he said.
Despite the hot and humid weather in Thailand, Rafiq said he and his wife planned to visit several more temples in Bangkok to admire the intricate craftsmanship and architecture.
Among Bangkok’s most visited temples during Wesak Day this year are Wat Paknam, Wat Saket, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and Wat That Thong.
Wesak Day is one of the major national celebrations in Thailand, observed solemnly by Buddhists by visiting temples for prayers and performing acts of merit. - Bernama
