Thailand: A modern Khmer-style prang at Wat Chakkrawat, Bangkok

A prang is a tall tower-like spire, usually richly carved. They were a common shrine element of Hindu and Buddhist architecture in the Khmer Empire. They were later adapted by Buddhist builders in Thailand, especially during the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1350–1767) and Rattanakosin Kingdom (1782-1932). In Thailand it appears only with the most important Buddhist temples.

Wat Chakkrawat is famous for its live crocodiles and also a small grotto containing what is called a Buddha shadow. Visitors press gold leaf on the shadow shape.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia