The Temple of Phra That Suthon Mongkhon Khiri

I had seen this monumental temple last year during a driving spree around the northeastern part of Thailand but didn't have the chance to snap some photographs until the spring break. 

The Reclining Buddha

Although not an ancient temple, this magnificent edifice features beautiful architectures that are inspired by the ancient, traditional structures. Completed in 1984, this temple is most visited by Thais but not as much known by tourists because of its location.

Naga Heads and Bodies

Right Side Guardian of the Temple

Left Side Guardian of the Temple

Unfortunately I wasn't able to go inside the grounds which I was told was filled with amazing architecture and displays of Buddhist art with many fine examples of Lanna, Burmese and Laotian styles. The most prominent about this place is the tranquil surrounding and the stunning greens that envelopes the temple.

Footprints called Buddhapada
 (Dharmachakra at the centre of the sole)

The Buddha's footprints are usually depicted with the toes of all one length and with the wheel in the centre. Other early Buddhist symbols also appear on the heels and toes such as the lotus, the swastika ( cross with four arms of equal lengths), and the triratna (Three Jewels). Some Buddhapada can be very large just like this found on the reclining Buddha, displaying the 32, 108 or 132 distinctive marks of a Buddha in a checkerboard pattern. (source: www.religionfacts.com)

At 89m long, this is a marvel!

In my travels, I often look at the opportunity to admire nature's beauty and man's artistic endeavors with pride and fulfillment. I often tell myself that life is not just about stories and photographs, it is also about encounters: our encounters with strangers, with new places and with our own desire to grow better.