Welcome to my blog, dear readers! I am Sirinya, and today we are embarking on a journey to explore the hidden gem of Thai culture, Phutthamonthon Buddha's Sphere. If you've been to Bangkok, you may already know about this beautiful place or have heard about it from locals. However, if you haven't visited it yet, you are in for a treat.
Phutthamonthon Buddha's Sphere, commonly referred to as Phutthamonthon, is a Buddhist park located in the Nakhon Pathom province, just outside Bangkok. This serene and peaceful park is home to one of the world's largest Buddha statues and serves as a center of Buddhist learning and practice for local and foreign visitors alike.
The Phutthamonthon Buddha's Sphere was built in 1957 by the Thai government to honor the Buddha's 2,500th birth anniversary, and since then, it has been a symbol of Thai Buddhism and an essential place of worship for the people of Thailand. Despite its importance, Phutthamonthon is a relatively unknown attraction to tourists, which makes it a perfect destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
In this article, we will be uncovering the significance and power of Phutthamonthon Buddha's Sphere, including its history, purpose, and the unique experiences awaiting you inside its tranquil and serene surroundings. Get ready to discover the magic of one of the most sacred places in Thailand!
The Largest Buddhist Park in Thailand
Nature and culture coexist beautifully in Thailand, and Phutthamonthon Buddha's Sphere is a perfect example of this harmony. Located in Nakhon Pathom, the park is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. It is also the largest Buddhist park in all of Thailand. The sprawling area spans over 400 acres, and there is plenty to explore here.
The Significance of Phutthamonthon Buddha's Sphere
One might wonder what makes Phutthamonthon Buddha's Sphere so significant, and the answer lies in its name. The word "Phutthamonthon" means "the world of the Buddha," and the park indeed exemplifies this with its many Buddhist artefacts and structures.
Stunning Architecture of the Sphere
The park's main attraction is undoubtedly the towering Phutthamonthon Buddha's Sphere, which stands at an impressive height of 80 meters. The spherical structure looks majestic in the daylight, but it is when the sunset paints the background with shades of orange and pink that it becomes truly breathtaking.
The sphere's architecture is not only beautiful but also symbolic. The upper sphere represents the Buddha's teachings, while the lower sphere represents the world. The lotus-shaped base symbolizes peace and purity, and inside there are enshrined Buddha relics.
The Secrets Behind the Seven-tiered Base
The lotus-shaped base that serves as the foundation of the sphere itself has many secrets to uncover. It has seven tiers that represent the seven steps that Buddha took at his birth, and each tier is adorned with intricate carvings that depict Buddha's journey to enlightenment. These carvings are breathtaking and intricate, and they depict the Buddha's life and teachings in meticulous detail.
Significance of the Lotus Leaves at the Base
Another unique feature of the sphere is the thousands of lotus leaves that cover the base's surface. These were cast in bronze and painted with a sublime golden hue, and they serve to reinforce the symbolic importance of the lotus in Buddhism. The Lotus flower is a symbol of purity and enlightenment, and it is said to rise above the muddy waters of the world.
The Inner Sanctum: A Place of Tranquility
The sphere's interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with a massive chamber that is home to a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The chamber is the inner sanctum of the sphere, and it is a place where visitors can meditate and reflect. An inner courtyard with a lotus pond acts as a respite from the outside world and creates a peaceful ambiance.
How to Get There and Other Useful Information
Phutthamonthon Buddha's Sphere is located in Nakhon Pathom province and is easily accessible from Bangkok. Visitors can take a taxi or use public transportation to reach the park. Admission to the park is free, and visitors are welcome every day from 7 am to 5 pm.
The park also has other attractions that visitors can take in. The park boasts a vast array of gardens and ponds that make for a relaxing walk in the evening. Paths lined with trees, the iconic 250 meters long dragon fountain, and a replica of the Buddha's footprint are just as fascinating as the towering sphere itself.