Buddhism is still the state religion of Thailand. Under the Constitution, the King, as a symbol of the nation, although protector of all religions, must be a Buddhist. According to the latest census, the total population of Thailand is 48 million. Out of this number, 93.4 percent are Buddhists. Buddhism has had a deep influence in the Thai arts, traditions, learning and the character of the people. It has modelled their manner of thinking and acting. In short, it has become an integral part of Thai life. The charm that has caused Thailand to be called the Land of Smiles undoubtedly comes from the influence of Buddhism over her people. Realizing these facts, the Thai rulers have taken the responsibility for the protection and promotion of Buddhism.

The rulers of Thailand have encouraged and supported Buddhism by building and maintaining monasteries, by providing the monks with material necessities and facilities for performing religious duties, by patronizing their educational activities such as the Buddhist Councils for revising the Tripitaka and having the scriptures translated into Thai, and by reforming the Sangha and appointing able Supreme Patriarchs to govern the Order. Since B.E. 2446 (1903 C.E.) the State has even enacted the laws forming the Constitution under which the Sangha governs itself.

The Department of Religious Affairs has been established in the Ministry of Education to achieve close cooperation between the Order and the Government and to provide a channel through which the Sangha can communicate with government authorities and through, which the State can promote the well-being of the Sangha.

Four Buddhist holy days are recognized by the Government as nationalholidays, namely, the Magha Puja Day, the Visakha Puja Day, the Asalha Puja Day and the Khao Pansa Day. Nearly all state and public ceremonies are blessed by the participation and chanting of senior members of the Order. The people also invite monks to chant the Sutras and protective formulas for their blessing and protection in all household rites such as housewarmings, birthday celebrations and weddings, and especially to conduct funeral rites and memorial services for the benefit of the deceased.

In Bangkok, the skyline is pierced by the spires of pagodas and stupas, especially those of Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) and the Golden Mount. “In the rice lands a traveler is seldom out of the sight of a phra chedi (Cetiya) or stupa towering above the village trees. In the less populous sections of the countries are sacred caves, ”footprints” of Buddha, and on many a steep and isolated hill a greying cetiya visible for miles around.

In Thailand, travelers can appreciate sacred religious buildings, statues, and artifacts; admire the amazing scenery; and enjoy delicious cuisine, all at the same time. Many travelers plan a visit to Thailand with a particular focus in mind: seeing the temples of Thailand.

Thailand’s culture is a mixture of influence from Cambodia, Southeast Asia, and India, creating a very unique culture indeed. Buddhism is the national religion and respect towards ancestors and towards religion is essential in this culture. That is why there are so many different temples throughout Thailand – there are over 31,000.

Ancient Palace – The ancient temple is officially called Wat Phra Si san Phet. This temple was the largest temple in the area and was used as a royal palace during its history. The main attraction is a complex at the entrance to the palace which has a number of buildings that visitors can wander through to get a feel for the ancient past of this beautiful temple.

Wihan Phramongkhon Bophit – This temple is special because it contains one of the largest bronze Buddha statues that can be found in Thailand. It was restored in the 1950s and was the first site for royal cremations.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram – This beautiful temple is a must-see for those who are visiting Thailand for the first time. It was built in 1630 on the Chao Phraya River and was designed to look much like temples that can be found in Cambodia. There are over 100 Buddha images and statues in the building, and most travelers state that it is one of the most peaceful and mystical temples that a visitor to the area can enjoy.

The temples of Thailand are much more than historical and religious structures; they are magical as well, prompting thousands of visitors every year, regardless of their religious beliefs, to flock to these amazing and beautiful sites.