The Most Iconic Statues in Thailand

Welcome to Thailand, one of the most beautiful countries in all of Asia. This little area of heaven is known as the “land of smiles” for a reason. No matter where you go, you will be met by heavenly beaches, bustling markets and truly inspired historical markets. Now, like any tourist, you’re probably excited by the idea of learning about the culture and heritage of Thailand. That’s why you need to start your journey by seeing some of the most gorgeous statues in all of Thailand. Statues (especially of Buddhas) are a staple of Thailand’s heritage. So, if you go to see them, you are bound to learn more about the history of their temple and their land as a whole. Here are our top favourite iconic statues in Thailand.

Emerald Buddha

So, no matter who you are, you could be a travelling student, a honeymooning couple or a single traveller on a date with a 100 % genuine ladyboy escort in Thailand, you need to see the Emerald Buddha at the Wat Phra Kaew Temple.

According to the legend, over 600 years ago, lightning hit a stupa in the Thai city of Chiang Rai and exposed a gold-leaf covered Buddha statue. Whilst the monks believed it to be made of stone, and thusly put it next to the other statues in their temple’s sanctuary, months later the plaster coating began to chip away and eventually revealed an emerald Buddha underneath. That is how it received the name “The Emerald Buddha.”

Although this status is only 66cm tall, it is one of the most famous in all of Thailand. Only the King is allowed to change its golden robes but others are allowed to gaze upon it. Just keep in mind that as this is a prime tourist spot, you may find that it might become pretty crowded. So, make sure to come early so you can see the statue at your own pace.

Reclining Buddha

If we are going to start with all of the biggest statues in Thailand, we might as well speak about the largest reclining Buddha in all of Bangkok. The Phra Buddhasaiyas is located in Wat Pho and is a large golden statue that is over 46m long. This magnificent gold statue is extremely impressive and inside a gilded room, making its size look even bigger. Not only that, but this status is accompanied by crowds of other smaller Buddha statues and 394 Buddha images. You will certainly be taken aback if you visit this Buddha, you may even feel humbled!

Phra Noon

Looking for another reclining Buddha to go and see? Why not take a trip to Ayutthaya to see one of the more rustic treasures of the area. Phra Noon is an outdoor Buddha is constructed from bricks and cement. It has aged with time but it has been shrouded by a large orange robe to protect it from the weather. There is even a miniature in front of her that tends to be adorned in a golden blanket by the Buddhist followers.

White Temple Statues

Feeling like you want to visit a temple to see some of the finest statues in Thailand? It might be time for you to take a trip out to Chiang Rai to see the White Temple. The White Temple is everything ti says on the tin. It’s entirely white and has statues that encourage visitors to reflect on Buddhist and Hindu teachings to escape worldly temptations.

So, where should we begin? If you cross over the bridge, you can witness the intricately carved statues of Naga the God of death and Rahu or perhaps the sea of souls around the bridge which have hands that eerily stretch up towards you and the sky, symbolizing human want and consumption. It is an extremely unique structure that will leave you feeling relaxed and at peace with the world. Don’t forget to bring a picnic along with you.

Phra Achana

If you after seeing a truly magnificent statue that is practically a standing testament to the ancients, then you need to see Phra Achana. It used to be a part of the historical city of Sukhothai. The statue’s name means “the one who is not frightened” and has a backstory where this statue frightened away the Burmese army due to its size. It now sits in a roofless hall where you see the sky. Its fingers have even been adorned in gold leaf as a symbol of good luck. It is truly a unique statue that you need to see for yourself.

Are you ready to visit Thailand?

As an avid history hunter, you would be crazy not to see some of the gorgeous statues that are all over Thailand. Don’t neglect them. They are truly a magnificent part of Thailand’s historical culture. Each of them tells a unique story. So, make sure that you give them the time needed to truly take in how remarkable each of the area.

Happy travels!