Wat Sri Suphan, The Silver Temple, is where the monks are ordained. It contains the Ordination Hall where women are not allowed inside. The top of the temple is made of silver which reflects the light. In the evening it is flooded with lights that change colors giving it a mystical, almost fairy tale feel. In front sits a large gold Buddha and a large silver Buddha. The inside of the temple contains elaborate silver and aluminum carvings.
Many of the people who belong to this temple are the artisans and craftspeople. They wanted to donate their work to decorate the temple. They gave panels of silver, carved with their beautiful designs. Those who could not afford to give silver gave the aluminium panels.
As the sky became dark a distant storm was brewing, making it even more dramatic.
The dragon greets us at the Temple.
Wat Sri Suphon was built in 1495-1515, at one time the centre for the craftspeople of the city. IT is now working to rejuvenate the silver crafting industry.
The Ordination Hall for monks. It is lit at night with changing colors which reflect on the silver of the temple.
Gold and silver Buddhas stand outside the temple.
Ganesh is the elephant God. He is able to remove obstacles and bring success. He is the God of education and wisdom and very important in their religion.
Here monks learn and practise the art of silversmithing.
This has been a full day. I return to my hotel exhausted and pumped at the same time with great respect for the Thai people and the devotion they have to their culture, their traditions and how they are dedicated and committed to keeping these an important part of their lives in present day.
The Siver Temple at night.
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