This fall, my bestie Meeghan took a family trip to the countries of Thailand and Bhutan. Meeghan is a world traveler and a photography hobbyist, so her photos were absolutely stunning.  I especially found the colors and geometry of all of the temples stunning, so I asked her permission to share some with you lovers of global beauty.

For your quick geography lesson – here they are marked on a map of Asia:

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Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand.

“Thai traditions incorporate a influence from India, China, Cambodia, and the rest of Southeast Asia. Thailand’s national religion, Theravada Buddhism, is central to modern Thai identity. Thai Buddhism has evolved over time to include many regional beliefs originating from Hinduism, animism, as well as ancestor worship.”

Wat Arun – Temple of Dawn

(Bangkok, Thailand)

 

 

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“Wat Arun was envisioned by King Taksin in 1768. It is believed that after fighting his way out of Ayutthaya, which was taken over by a Burmese army at the time, he arrived at this temple just as dawn was breaking. He later had the temple renovated and renamed it Wat Chaeng, the Temple of the Dawn. It used to be the home of the Emerald Buddha, before the capital and Palace was moved to the other side of the river.”

 

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Wat Arun – Temple of the Dawn   Photos by Meeghan Bell

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Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn

(Bangkok, Thailand)

 

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Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn, a group of four huge pagodas surrounded by white wall with Thai-Chinese style sheltered gates decorated with color-glazed tiles and Chinese rockeries guardians.

Each pagoda is 42-metre high, twelve or added notched-rim structures ending in a tall spire and elaborated with colorful mosaics.

 

 

 

 

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Wat Pho in Bangkok – The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, which measures 46 meters long and is covered in gold leaf. Fun fact: Wat Pho is known as the leading school of massage in the world, so if you’re in the area, might be a good idea to try!   (photo by Meeghan Bell)

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The Grand Palace

(Bangkok, Thailand)

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“The palace has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since 1782. The king, his court and his royal government were based on the grounds of the palace until 1925. The Grand Palace is still used for official events. Several royal ceremonies and state functions are held within the walls of the palace every year.

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