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Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat Woramahawihan (also referred to as Wat Yai) is famous throughout Thailand for its Buddha statue known as the Phra Buddha Chinnarat, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images.<br/><br/> Many Thai people consider the Phra Buddha Chinnarat to be the most beautiful Buddha figure in Thailand. It depicts Buddha in the posture of overcoming Mara, also called the Gesture of Subduing Mara. A stone inscription indicated that the figure was molded over 700 years ago during the late Sukhothai era.<br/><br/> Several faithful copies of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat are displayed in other temples, including Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok and Wat Saranat Thammaram in Rayong. Also, the Phra Buddha Chinnarat is depicted on the official seal of the Phitsanulok Province.
Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat Woramahawihan (also referred to as Wat Yai) is famous throughout Thailand for its Buddha statue known as the Phra Buddha Chinnarat, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images.<br/><br/> Many Thai people consider the Phra Buddha Chinnarat to be the most beautiful Buddha figure in Thailand. It depicts Buddha in the posture of overcoming Mara, also called the Gesture of Subduing Mara. A stone inscription indicated that the figure was molded over 700 years ago during the late Sukhothai era.<br/><br/> Several faithful copies of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat are displayed in other temples, including Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok and Wat Saranat Thammaram in Rayong. Also, the Phra Buddha Chinnarat is depicted on the official seal of the Phitsanulok Province.
Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat Woramahawihan (also referred to as Wat Yai) is famous throughout Thailand for its Buddha statue known as the Phra Buddha Chinnarat, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images.<br/><br/> Many Thai people consider the Phra Buddha Chinnarat to be the most beautiful Buddha figure in Thailand. It depicts Buddha in the posture of overcoming Mara, also called the Gesture of Subduing Mara. A stone inscription indicated that the figure was molded over 700 years ago during the late Sukhothai era.<br/><br/> Several faithful copies of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat are displayed in other temples, including Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok and Wat Saranat Thammaram in Rayong. Also, the Phra Buddha Chinnarat is depicted on the official seal of the Phitsanulok Province.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186).<br/><br/> Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186).<br/><br/> Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186).<br/><br/> Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
According to an ancient chronicle, the original city of Chiang Saen was built in 545 CE in an area called Yonok, by Tai migrants from the Chinese province of Yunnan, and was an important city of the Lan Na Kingdom. No reliable written history of the city exists until the arrival of King Mengrai in the 13th century.<br/><br/> The city was sacked by Chao Kawila of Chiang Mai during the reign of Rama I, because it had been the Burmese base of operations in the preceding years. The city was deserted, while its inhabitants resettled in other Bangkok-allied Lanna cities such as Lampang and Chiang Mai.
The Garuda is a large bird-like creature, or humanoid bird that appears in both Hinduism and Buddhism.<br/><br/> The Garuda is the mount (vahana) of the Lord Vishnu.
Tep Pranam is a late period (16th century CE) Buddhist sanctuary, probably originally dedicated to the Mahayana school, but now in active use as a place of Theravada worship, with a large sandstone Buddha image in the seated ‘calling the earth to witness’ mudra (posture).Angkor Thom is located 1.5km (one mile) north of Angkor Wat. It was built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, and covers an area of 9 km², within which are located several monuments from earlier eras as well as those established by Jayavarman and his successors. At the centre of the city is Jayavarman's state temple, the Bayon, with the other major sites clustered around the Victory Square immediately to the north.Angkor Thom was established as the capital of Jayavarman VII's empire, and was the centre of his massive building programme. One inscription found in the city refers to Jayavarman as the groom and the city as his bride.<br/><br/>Angkor Thom seems not to be the first Khmer capital on the site, however, as Yasodharapura, dating from three centuries earlier, was centred slightly further northwest.<br/><br/>The last temple known to have been constructed in Angkor Thom was Mangalartha, which was dedicated in 1295. In the following centuries Angkor Thom remained the capital of a kingdom in decline until it was abandoned some time prior to 1609. It is believed to have sustained a population of 80,000-150,000 people.
Tep Pranam is a late period (16th century CE) Buddhist sanctuary, probably originally dedicated to the Mahayana school, but now in active use as a place of Theravada worship, with a large sandstone Buddha image in the seated ‘calling the earth to witness’ mudra (posture).<br/><br/> Angkor Thom is located one mile north of Angkor Wat. It was built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, and covers an area of 9 km², within which are located several monuments from earlier eras as well as those established by Jayavarman and his successors. At the centre of the city is Jayavarman's state temple, the Bayon, with the other major sites clustered around the Victory Square immediately to the north.<br/><br/> Angkor Thom was established as the capital of Jayavarman VII's empire, and was the centre of his massive building programme. One inscription found in the city refers to Jayavarman as the groom and the city as his bride. Angkor Thom seems not to be the first Khmer capital on the site, however, as Yasodharapura, dating from three centuries earlier, was centred slightly further northwest. The last temple known to have been constructed in Angkor Thom was Mangalartha, which was dedicated in 1295. In the following centuries Angkor Thom remained the capital of a kingdom in decline until it was abandoned some time prior to 1609. It is believed to have sustained a population of 80,000-150,000 people.
Tep Pranam is a late period (16th century CE) Buddhist sanctuary, probably originally dedicated to the Mahayana school, but now in active use as a place of Theravada worship, with a large sandstone Buddha image in the seated ‘calling the earth to witness’ mudra (posture).<br/><br/> Angkor Thom is located one mile north of Angkor Wat. It was built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, and covers an area of 9 km², within which are located several monuments from earlier eras as well as those established by Jayavarman and his successors. At the centre of the city is Jayavarman's state temple, the Bayon, with the other major sites clustered around the Victory Square immediately to the north.<br/><br/> Angkor Thom was established as the capital of Jayavarman VII's empire, and was the centre of his massive building programme. One inscription found in the city refers to Jayavarman as the groom and the city as his bride. Angkor Thom seems not to be the first Khmer capital on the site, however, as Yasodharapura, dating from three centuries earlier, was centred slightly further northwest. The last temple known to have been constructed in Angkor Thom was Mangalartha, which was dedicated in 1295. In the following centuries Angkor Thom remained the capital of a kingdom in decline until it was abandoned some time prior to 1609. It is believed to have sustained a population of 80,000-150,000 people.
Founded in 1827 by Phaya Singhanataraj, the Shan ruler of Mae Hong Son, Wat Chong Kham contains a 5 metre Buddha image known as Luang Pho To.<br/><br/> Once one of Thailand’s remotest provinces, Mae Hong Son is now readily accessible by air from Chiang Mai, as well as by a wonderful loop drive through Mae Sariang and back via Pai and Soppong– or vice versa. Singularly isolated, Mae Hong Son is not yet very developed. The townsfolk may be citizens of Thailand, but most are Shan, Karen, Yunnanese Chinese or Hill Tribes. The temples are Burmese in style, and the pace of life amazingly tranquil.
Founded in 1827 by Phaya Singhanataraj, the Shan ruler of Mae Hong Son, Wat Chong Kham contains a 5 metre Buddha image known as Luang Pho To.<br/><br/> Once one of Thailand’s remotest provinces, Mae Hong Son is now readily accessible by air from Chiang Mai, as well as by a wonderful loop drive through Mae Sariang and back via Pai and Soppong– or vice versa. Singularly isolated, Mae Hong Son is not yet very developed. The townsfolk may be citizens of Thailand, but most are Shan, Karen, Yunnanese Chinese or Hill Tribes. The temples are Burmese in style, and the pace of life amazingly tranquil.
In Hindu mythology, Rahu is a snake that swallows the sun or the moon causing eclipses. He is depicted in art as a dragon with no body riding a chariot drawn by eight black horses. Rahu is one of the navagrahas (nine planets) in Vedic astrology. The Rahu kala (time of day under the influence of Rahu) is considered inauspicious.<br/><br/> According to legend, during the Samudra manthan, the asura Rahu drank some of the divine nectar. But before the nectar could pass his throat, Mohini (the female avatar of Vishnu) cut off his head. The head, however, remained immortal. It is believed that this immortal head occasionally swallows the sun or the moon, causing eclipses. Then, the sun or moon passes through the opening at the neck, ending the eclipse.<br/><br/> Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Wat Yang Kuang, Suriyawong Road, Chiang Mai has a long and chequered history. Originally mentioned in the Nirat Haripunchai (1517) as Wat Nang Rua, it was abandoned as a result of the destructive 18th century wars with Burma, leading to the abandonment of the city of Chiang Mai between 1775 and 1797 on the instruction of Chao Kawila.<br/><br/> When Kawila ordered the repopulation of Chiang Mai in 1797, he transported Tai Khoen people from the neighbourhood of Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Tung (Kengtung in the eastern part of Shan State) to Chiang Mai, settling them south of the Old City, in the newly populated area between the Old City walls and the earthen ramparts of Kamphaeng Din. Following the custom of the time, the resettled Tai Khoen centred their new community on the former Wat Nang Rua, which they gave the new name Wat Yang Kuang in honour of their former temple and place of origin.<br/><br/> The temple fell into disuse in the late 19th or early 20th century, but was been restored and re-established between 2008 and 2012.
Phrae town was built next to the Yom River in the 12th century and was part of the Mon kingdom of Haripunchai. In 1443, King Tilokaraj of the neighbouring Lanna kingdom captured the town.
Phrae town was built next to the Yom River in the 12th century and was part of the Mon kingdom of Haripunchai. In 1443, King Tilokaraj of the neighbouring Lanna kingdom captured the town.
Phrae town was built next to the Yom River in the 12th century and was part of the Mon kingdom of Haripunchai. In 1443, King Tilokaraj of the neighbouring Lanna kingdom captured the town.
Phrae town was built next to the Yom River in the 12th century and was part of the Mon kingdom of Haripunchai. In 1443, King Tilokaraj of the neighbouring Lanna kingdom captured the town.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186).<br/><br/> Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186).<br/><br/> Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186).<br/><br/> Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186). Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186). Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186). Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Gal Vihara, a Buddhist rock temple, was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I (1123 - 1186). Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country under a national leader.
Borobudur is an 8th-century Mahayana Buddhist monument near Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia. The monument comprises six square platforms topped by three circular platforms, and is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. A main dome, located at the center of the top platform, is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues seated inside a perforated stupa.<br/><br/> The monument is both a shrine to the Lord Buddha and a place for Buddhist pilgrimage. The journey for pilgrims begins at the base of the monument and follows a path circumambulating the monument while ascending to the top through the three levels of Buddhist cosmology, namely Kāmadhātu (the world of desire), Rupadhatu (the world of forms) and Arupadhatu (the world of formlessness). During the journey, the monument guides the pilgrims through a system of stairways and corridors with 1,460 narrative relief panels on the walls and the balustrades.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'.<br/><br/> Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'.<br/><br/> Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'.<br/><br/> Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
The Phra Atchana Buddha at Wat Si Chum is in the posture of 'Subduing Mara' or 'Calling the Earth to Witness'. Sukhothai, which literally means 'Dawn of Happiness', was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom and was founded in 1238. It was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat Woramahawihan (also referred to as Wat Yai) is famous throughout Thailand for its Buddha statue known as the Phra Buddha Chinnarat, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images.<br/><br/> Many Thai people consider the Phra Buddha Chinnarat to be the most beautiful Buddha figure in Thailand. It depicts Buddha in the posture of overcoming Mara, also called the Gesture of Subduing Mara. A stone inscription indicated that the figure was molded over 700 years ago during the late Sukhothai era.<br/><br/> Several faithful copies of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat are displayed in other temples, including Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok and Wat Saranat Thammaram in Rayong. Also, the Phra Buddha Chinnarat is depicted on the official seal of the Phitsanulok Province.
Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat Woramahawihan (also referred to as Wat Yai) is famous throughout Thailand for its Buddha statue known as the Phra Buddha Chinnarat, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images.<br/><br/> Many Thai people consider the Phra Buddha Chinnarat to be the most beautiful Buddha figure in Thailand. It depicts Buddha in the posture of overcoming Mara, also called the Gesture of Subduing Mara. A stone inscription indicated that the figure was molded over 700 years ago during the late Sukhothai era.<br/><br/> Several faithful copies of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat are displayed in other temples, including Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok and Wat Saranat Thammaram in Rayong. Also, the Phra Buddha Chinnarat is depicted on the official seal of the Phitsanulok Province.
Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat Woramahawihan (also referred to as Wat Yai) is famous throughout Thailand for its Buddha statue known as the Phra Buddha Chinnarat, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images.<br/><br/> Many Thai people consider the Phra Buddha Chinnarat to be the most beautiful Buddha figure in Thailand. It depicts Buddha in the posture of overcoming Mara, also called the Gesture of Subduing Mara. A stone inscription indicated that the figure was molded over 700 years ago during the late Sukhothai era.<br/><br/> Several faithful copies of the Phra Buddha Chinnarat are displayed in other temples, including Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok and Wat Saranat Thammaram in Rayong. Also, the Phra Buddha Chinnarat is depicted on the official seal of the Phitsanulok Province.
Tara, also known as Jetsun Dolma (Tibetan: rje btsun sgrol ma) in Tibetan Buddhism, is a female Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism who appears as a female Buddha in Vajrayana Buddhism. She is known as the 'mother of liberation', and represents the virtues of success in work and achievements.<br/><br/> In Japan she is known as Tarani Bosatsu, and as Tuoluo in Chinese Buddhism. Tara is a tantric meditation deity whose practice is used by practitioners of the Tibetan branch of Vajrayana Buddhism to develop certain inner qualities and understand outer, inner and secret teachings about compassion and emptiness. Tara is actually the generic name for a set of Buddhas or bodhisattvas of similar aspect. These may more properly be understood as different aspects of the same quality, as bodhisattvas are often considered metaphoric for Buddhist virtues.
The Pāla Empire, one of the major middle kingdoms of India, existed from 750–1174 CE. It was ruled by a Buddhist dynasty from Bengal in the eastern region of the Indian subcontinent, all the rulers bearing names ending with the suffix Pala (Modern Bengali: পাল pāl), which means protector. The Palas were often described by opponents as the Lords of Gauda. The Palas were followers of the Mahayana and Tantric schools of Buddhism. Gopala was the first ruler from the dynasty. He came to power in 750 in Gaur by a democratic election. This event is recognized as one of the first democratic elections in South Asia. He reigned from 750–770 and consolidated his position by extending his control over all of Bengal. The Buddhist dynasty lasted for four centuries (750–1120 CE) and ushered in a period of stability and prosperity in Bengal. They created many temples and works of art as well as supporting the Universities of Nalanda and Vikramashila. Somapura Mahavihara built by Dharmapala is the greatest Buddhist Vihara in the Indian Subcontinent.<br/><br/> The empire reached its peak under Dharmapala and Devapala. Dharmapala extended the empire into the northern parts of the Indian Subcontinent. This triggered once again the power struggle for the control of the subcontinent. Devapala, successor of Dharmapala, expanded the empire to cover much of South Asia and beyond. His empire stretched from Assam and Utkala in the east, Kamboja (modern day Afghanistan) in the north-west and Deccan in the south. According to a Pala copperplate inscription Devapala exterminated the Utkalas, conquered the Pragjyotisha (Assam), shattered the pride of the Huna, and humbled the lords of Pratiharas, Gurjara and the Dravidas.<br/><br/> The death of Devapala ended the period of ascendancy of the Pala Empire and several independent dynasties and kingdoms emerged during this time. However, Mahipala I rejuvenated the reign of the Palas. He recovered control over all of Bengal and expanded the empire. He survived the invasions of Rajendra Chola and the Chalukyas. After Mahipala I the Pala dynasty again saw its decline until Ramapala, the last great ruler of the dynasty, managed to retrieve the position of the dynasty to some extent. He crushed the Varendra rebellion and extended his empire farther to Kamarupa, Orissa and Northern India.<br/><br/> The Pala Empire can be considered as the golden era of Bengal. Never had the Bengali people reached such height of power and glory to that extent. Palas were responsible for the introduction of Mahayana Buddhism in Tibet, Bhutan and Myanmar. The Palas had extensive trade as well as influence in south-east Asia. This can be seen in the sculptures and architectural style of the Sailendra Empire (present-day Malaya, Java, Sumatra). The Pala Empire eventually disintegrated in the 12th century weakened by attacks of the Sena dynasty followed by the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khilji's Muslim armies.
Sarnath or Sārnātha (also Mrigadava, Migadāya, Rishipattana, Isipatana) is the deer park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma, and where the Buddhist Sangha came into existence. Sarnath is located 13 kilometres north-east of Varanasi, in Uttar Pradesh, India.<br/><br/> Isipatana is mentioned by the Buddha as one of the four places of pilgrimage which his devout followers should visit, if they wish to visit a place for that reason.
The Pāla Empire, one of the major middle kingdoms of India, existed from 750–1174 CE. It was ruled by a Buddhist dynasty from Bengal in the eastern region of the Indian subcontinent, all the rulers bearing names ending with the suffix Pala (Modern Bengali: পাল pāl), which means protector. The Palas were often described by opponents as the Lords of Gauda. The Palas were followers of the Mahayana and Tantric schools of Buddhism. Gopala was the first ruler from the dynasty. He came to power in 750 in Gaur by a democratic election. This event is recognized as one of the first democratic elections in South Asia. He reigned from 750–770 and consolidated his position by extending his control over all of Bengal. The Buddhist dynasty lasted for four centuries (750–1120 CE) and ushered in a period of stability and prosperity in Bengal. They created many temples and works of art as well as supporting the Universities of Nalanda and Vikramashila. Somapura Mahavihara built by Dharmapala is the greatest Buddhist Vihara in the Indian Subcontinent.<br/><br/> The empire reached its peak under Dharmapala and Devapala. Dharmapala extended the empire into the northern parts of the Indian Subcontinent. This triggered once again the power struggle for the control of the subcontinent. Devapala, successor of Dharmapala, expanded the empire to cover much of South Asia and beyond. His empire stretched from Assam and Utkala in the east, Kamboja (modern day Afghanistan) in the north-west and Deccan in the south. According to a Pala copperplate inscription Devapala exterminated the Utkalas, conquered the Pragjyotisha (Assam), shattered the pride of the Huna, and humbled the lords of Pratiharas, Gurjara and the Dravidas.<br/><br/> The death of Devapala ended the period of ascendancy of the Pala Empire and several independent dynasties and kingdoms emerged during this time. However, Mahipala I rejuvenated the reign of the Palas. He recovered control over all of Bengal and expanded the empire. He survived the invasions of Rajendra Chola and the Chalukyas. After Mahipala I the Pala dynasty again saw its decline until Ramapala, the last great ruler of the dynasty, managed to retrieve the position of the dynasty to some extent. He crushed the Varendra rebellion and extended his empire farther to Kamarupa, Orissa and Northern India.<br/><br/> The Pala Empire can be considered as the golden era of Bengal. Never had the Bengali people reached such height of power and glory to that extent. Palas were responsible for the introduction of Mahayana Buddhism in Tibet, Bhutan and Myanmar. The Palas had extensive trade as well as influence in south-east Asia. This can be seen in the sculptures and architectural style of the Sailendra Empire (present-day Malaya, Java, Sumatra). The Pala Empire eventually disintegrated in the 12th century weakened by attacks of the Sena dynasty followed by the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khilji's Muslim armies.
The Pāla Empire, one of the major middle kingdoms of India, existed from 750–1174 CE. It was ruled by a Buddhist dynasty from Bengal in the eastern region of the Indian subcontinent, all the rulers bearing names ending with the suffix Pala (Modern Bengali: পাল pāl), which means protector. The Palas were often described by opponents as the Lords of Gauda. The Palas were followers of the Mahayana and Tantric schools of Buddhism. Gopala was the first ruler from the dynasty. He came to power in 750 in Gaur by a democratic election. This event is recognized as one of the first democratic elections in South Asia. He reigned from 750–770 and consolidated his position by extending his control over all of Bengal. The Buddhist dynasty lasted for four centuries (750–1120 CE) and ushered in a period of stability and prosperity in Bengal. They created many temples and works of art as well as supporting the Universities of Nalanda and Vikramashila. Somapura Mahavihara built by Dharmapala is the greatest Buddhist Vihara in the Indian Subcontinent.<br/><br/> The empire reached its peak under Dharmapala and Devapala. Dharmapala extended the empire into the northern parts of the Indian Subcontinent. This triggered once again the power struggle for the control of the subcontinent. Devapala, successor of Dharmapala, expanded the empire to cover much of South Asia and beyond. His empire stretched from Assam and Utkala in the east, Kamboja (modern day Afghanistan) in the north-west and Deccan in the south. According to a Pala copperplate inscription Devapala exterminated the Utkalas, conquered the Pragjyotisha (Assam), shattered the pride of the Huna, and humbled the lords of Pratiharas, Gurjara and the Dravidas.<br/><br/> The death of Devapala ended the period of ascendancy of the Pala Empire and several independent dynasties and kingdoms emerged during this time. However, Mahipala I rejuvenated the reign of the Palas. He recovered control over all of Bengal and expanded the empire. He survived the invasions of Rajendra Chola and the Chalukyas. After Mahipala I the Pala dynasty again saw its decline until Ramapala, the last great ruler of the dynasty, managed to retrieve the position of the dynasty to some extent. He crushed the Varendra rebellion and extended his empire farther to Kamarupa, Orissa and Northern India.<br/><br/> The Pala Empire can be considered as the golden era of Bengal. Never had the Bengali people reached such height of power and glory to that extent. Palas were responsible for the introduction of Mahayana Buddhism in Tibet, Bhutan and Myanmar. The Palas had extensive trade as well as influence in south-east Asia. This can be seen in the sculptures and architectural style of the Sailendra Empire (present-day Malaya, Java, Sumatra). The Pala Empire eventually disintegrated in the 12th century weakened by attacks of the Sena dynasty followed by the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khilji's Muslim armies.