Wat Laem Pho, Buddhist temple in Ko Yo, Thailand
Wat Laem Pho is a Buddhist temple on Ko Yo featuring a 25-meter-tall golden reclining Buddha statue standing beside the river and marking the island's entrance. The complex includes several buildings with traditional architecture that blend naturally into the riverscape.
The temple dates from the Rattanakosin era over 200 years ago and displays royal architectural elements from King Rama III's reign. This period shaped the style of many religious buildings throughout the region.
The ordination hall contains terracotta tiles decorated with floral patterns and swan tails that showcase traditional Thai Buddhist artistic methods. These crafted details reflect the religious artistic traditions of the region.
The temple sits about 30 minutes from Hat Yai and is accessible by taxi, bus, or tuk-tuk. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and remove shoes before entering inner sanctuaries.
Beneath the Buddha statue's feet sit 108 auspicious symbols carved alongside depictions of Indra riding an Erawan elephant. This sacred number and celestial imagery merge local and universal Buddhist meanings.
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