06/01/205 – Day 14: The Final Day in Bangkok
A Morning Visit to Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace
On the final day of our journey, with a late evening flight, we took the opportunity to explore Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and the Grand Palace. This temple, regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand, is an architectural marvel and a cultural treasure trove.
Wat Phra Kaew: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Wat Phra Kaew houses the Emerald Buddha, a revered statue carved from a single block of jade. The statue is relatively small but sits atop an elaborate golden pedestal within the temple’s ordination hall. The Buddha is adorned with seasonal robes, changed three times a year by the King of Thailand, symbolizing the changing seasons and the prosperity they bring.
Architectural Features
The temple’s layout is a harmonious blend of vibrant colors, intricate mosaics, and gilded elements. Massive statues of demons and monkeys, derived from the Ramayana, stand guard at the doorways. The demons are easily distinguishable by their shoes, while the Hanuman (monkey warriors) are depicted barefoot.
The temple is also adorned with mystical creatures: hybrids of birds, demons, and animals that add a mythical charm. The giant yaksha statues, standing as sentinels, are both awe-inspiring and symbolic of protection. The walls are intricately painted with murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana, narrating tales of virtue, valor, and devotion.
The Khon Dance: A Cultural Spectacle
After exploring the temple and parts of the Grand Palace, we attended a complimentary Khon dance performance, included with our entry ticket. The performance, rooted in the Ramayana, was a visual treat. It featured scenes of Hanuman eating fruits in Sita’s garden and the epic battle between Rama and Ravana. The grace of the dancers, the richness of their costumes, and the emotive storytelling through movement brought the ancient tales to life.
A Market Visit and Thai Lunch
Following the dance, we visited a bustling market near the theatre, teeming with food stalls and vibrant colors. The aroma of Thai street food was irresistible, and we enjoyed photographing the stalls and savoring a delicious lunch. Shopping for clothes in the market added a delightful end to the morning.
An Afternoon of Personal Exploration
While the rest of the family rested, I ventured out on a Grab bike to visit Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn). Although visitors are no longer allowed inside the temple, walking around its grounds and observing its ornate spires was captivating. The temple’s central prang is adorned with porcelain and seashells, shimmering beautifully in daylight.
Crossing the River and Revisiting Wat Pho
Taking a boat across the Chao Phraya River, I revisited Wat Pho, this time in daylight. The intricate details of the temple’s architecture were even more striking, and I appreciated the serene atmosphere. This visit brought a full-circle moment, linking the beginning and end of our Bangkok adventure.
A Sunset Farewell
To conclude the day, I returned to the sunset lounge where we had dined earlier in the trip. Watching the sun set over Wat Arun was a breathtaking way to reflect on the journey. A chance conversation with a Ukrainian neurologist offered an unexpected and meaningful connection, adding depth to the evening.
Reflections on the Journey
This trip was an extraordinary blend of history, culture, and personal discovery. Starting in Kolkata, we ventured through Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap before ending in Bangkok.
Top Highlights
- Angkor Wat and the Temples of Cambodia: A spiritual and architectural wonder.
- War Remnants Museum: An unflinching account of the Vietnam War’s horrors.
- Cu Chi Tunnels: A unique insight into guerrilla warfare and resilience.
While overcast weather limited photographic opportunities in Vietnam, the experiences we had were unforgettable, reminding me that some moments are best captured by the heart, not the camera.
Meditations on Travel
This trip inspired the creation of my upcoming books, Meditations in Vietnam and Meditations in Angkor. These works aim to promote mindful travel, encouraging readers to engage deeply with the history, culture, and people of the places they visit. As we prepared for the next chapter of life—dropping my daughter off in the UK—we carried with us the lessons and memories of this incredible journey.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Chaos, The Charm, and The Old Quarter | Day 2: Immersing in Hanoi’s History, Culture, and Culinary Delights | Day 3: A Journey Through Ancient Vietnam and Cultural Wonders | Day 4: Cruising Through the Wonders of Ha Long Bay | Day 5: From Ha Long Bay to Da Nang – Adventures Above and Below | Day 6: A Day of Misty Hills and Evening Elegance in Da Nang | Day 7: A Day of Serenity and Lanterns in Hoi An | Day 8: Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels and Welcoming 2025 | Day 9: A Journey Through the Mekong Delta | Day 10: From the Horrors of War to the Charm of Cambodia | Day 11: The Majestic Temples of Angkor | Day 12: Bangkok’s Revered Temples and Evening Splendor | Day 13: Exploring Ayutthaya’s Historical Treasures | Day 14: The Final Day in Bangkok
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