The stunning Wat Phra Kaew

Thailand has some interesting and beautiful historical temples that reflect the culture and history of the country. One of them is Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) - Located within the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok, this is the most sacred temple in Thailand and is home to the highly revered Emerald Buddha. Wat Phra Kaew (known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or locally called Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram) is one of the Buddhist temples in Thailand. Located in the historic center of Bangkok and within the Grand Palace complex, the temple houses the Phra Kaew Morakot (Emerald Buddha), a highly revered Buddha statue meticulously carved from a single block of jade. Raised aloft on a series of platforms, no one is allowed to approach the Emerald Buddha except His Majesty the King. Seasonal robes, which are changed 3 times a year to correspond with the summer, winter and rainy seasons, cover the statue. A very important ritual, the changing of robes is performed only by the King to bring good luck to the country in each season. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is beautifully decorated and provides a sense of profound peace. Built in 1782 – and for over 150 years serving as the home of the King of Thailand, the royal palace and the seat of government – Bangkok’s Grand Palace is a magnificent old palace that continues to amaze visitors with its beautiful architecture and intricate details, all of which are a tribute to the creativity and craftsmanship of the Thai people. Within its walls are also the Thai Ministry of War, the State Department and even the mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Kingdom of Thailand.