Seeing The (Really) Big Buddha At Wat Muang

The Buddhists love their Buddhas, the bigger, the better. Sure, there's big. And at Wat Muang, there's colossal.

Looming large on approach from the back.

Presenting Mahaminh Sakayamunee Visejchaicharn. Tallest statue in Thailand, second tallest statue in Southeast Asia. Eighteen years of construction. Can you imagine if he stood up? Also hanging out, a natty tatted monk figure.

Another look at the big boy. He's sitting in the posture called Maravijaya Attitude. The designers were clever, having Buddha's hand dangle just so, so worshippers could reach out on their tipppy toes and touch God.

A monk, literally playing with fire. Mirrored interior of one of the temples, looking a little like the reception area of a Las Vegas hotel.

Opposite of the big Buddha, a monk mummy in repose.

The Mighty Hands Of God

One of the pleasures of wandering Chiang Mai is visiting all the holy Buddhist Wats. There are dozens of complexes, each unique in terms of architecture, complexity. One feature is seen repeatedly, wax monks. That's right, life size sculptures of important monks can be found in many of the wats.

The look, costume and pose seem to follow classic guidelines. Close cropped hair, likeness in the age you died, orange robe, sitting. On to the holy hands.

In front and clasped is classic.

It's cool to go fist over fist or just relaxed on the leg.

A cradle position to hold ever changing holy items is a nice bonus.

Clasp and fist, Mach II.
An open hand to god is pretty, especially with a thick patina.

Wat Phra Singh In Chiang Mai

Anchoring the western part of old town Chiang Mai in Thailand is mighty Wat Phra Singh. It's a whole complex of golden beauties, started way back in 1325.

The main temple, Wihan Luang.

Things get golden out back at the big chedi, stupa. Bling! Back inside of Wihan Luang, it's time for a quick prayer.

Monk hall of fame. Wat Phra Singh must have a rich history of head monks as many of them have been lovingly preserved in wax. Role call.

They know what they're doing in wax, right down to liver spots and original eyeglasses. Too bad you can't be remembered when you were say 42 instead of 82. Donation box section, one for any taste.

Back at the chedi, a gold elephant emerges.