After our morning of negotiating at the floating
markets, we headed to one of Thailand’s main royal temples, Ratchaworaviharn,
which includes Wat Phra Pathom Chedi. Both titles, “tallest pagoda in the world” and “tallest pagoda in Thailand,” are used to describe it, and we heard both in Thailand. I’m not sure it’s the largest in the world, but it is
surely in the top tier and quite a site to see! Even more fascinating is its history, which goes back more than 2000 years. India’s Emperor, during the 3rd
Century, sent out missionaries to spread Buddhism to the east. The Chedi you see
today is built over ancient relics, including carved altars and stone wheels of
law, predating 143 B.C. Scaling upwards, at 417 feet, it will be one of
the most impressive stupas you will see on any of your travels.
Ratchaworaviharn
The day was starting to wear on us, and at the perfect time, we reached the Rose Gardens in Nakhon Pathom. As usual, lunch was
served via buffet… oh the horror. “By the time we get to the beach, I am not going to fit into my swimsuit,” I frequently shouted. Literally, it seemed like every
meal was served buffet style or our order consisted of four overflowing dishes. The food is so incredible. However, there is no room for argument; you just have to let your belt out. Comprised of curries, salads, and fish, this spread was no different, and I ended up eating enough for two people. The view of the small
lake and surrounding garden was the perfect place to pause after a rushed and
busy morning. After a quick walk around the orchid gardens, overflowing with
incredible colors and combinations, we went down to the elephant show.
Glad I picked up this book before the trip!
Now, I had been very weary of this trip and all
the possible animal situations we would see that would compromise my position on
animal rights. However, I intended to learn about popular places to bring attention to any abuse I saw, including restaurants and
entertainment shows. This was the first place where my radar started to go off.
Thankfully, it appeared to be a false alarm. The elephants are paraded around, demonstrating how they are used in logging throughout South East Asia. Side
note: Logging elephants eliminates the need for forest clearing, which is required for
heavy machinery and trucks to access the logs typically needed in
dense jungles. Yet, because elephants can maneuver through the forest
and deliver logs to transportation without roads, forest damage is minimal. I
have seen documentaries showcasing operations that treat the animals well and save thousands of acres of forest. Of course, that is an ideal situation, but it is likely not the usual one.
The show is slow-passed, and the elephants do not look like it’s difficult for them to lift and push around these logs.
From what we saw, the elephants were happy and not being abused during the hours we were there. The Thai Village Cultural Show that follows is much more than
we expected and really fun! Especially the end when you see their version of
jumping ropes… with bamboo. This show is an impressive composition of well-preformed snapshots of Thai history and the many unique cultural practices that make Thailand so mysterious. Even the imitation Muay Thai boxing spectacle is
entertaining and gives a good idea of a real match if you cannot make
it to an authentic one.
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