Unbeknownst to many, a Thai temple boasts a unique identity, crafted from an astounding 1.5 million beer bottles!
Discover the Eco-Friendly "Temple of a Million Bottles" in Thailand
The Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew, often referred to as the "Temple of a Million Bottles" or the "Wilderness Temple of the Great Glass Pagoda," is a unique and awe-inspiring attraction located in the Khun Han district of Si Sa Ket province, Thailand. This temple, which attracts numerous tourists every year, is renowned for its eco-friendly construction using over 1.5 million recycled beer bottles.
The construction of this extraordinary temple began in 1984, with the help of the local government and tourists. The Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew is easily accessible, with Ubon Ratchathani Airport (UBP) being the nearest airport, located approximately 101 km away.
Upon entering the temple, visitors are advised to respect the local customs and etiquette. Shoes should be removed before entering worship areas, and improper behavior should be avoided. Visitors should step over the wooden threshold to the temple rather than on top of it.
Inside the temple, the ubosot (ordination hall) is a noteworthy sight, with its green and brown glass bottles buried into the ground and pillars. The chedi (stupa), made mainly out of brown bottles with mosaic pieces in the shape of windows, is another captivating feature. Inside the ubosot, there is a shrine where Buddhists go to pray.
Visitors should also be mindful of their actions around the monks. When monks or nuns enter a room, visitors should stand up. Women should not touch a monk or their robes. If a monk needs an object, the visitor should put it down with their right hand and allow the monk to pick it up. Pointing at a monk or Buddha statue with fingers, feet, or something in their hands is also discouraged.
The Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. The recommended time to visit is between November and February when the weather is cooler with less humidity, providing a more comfortable experience.
Thailand is home to nearly 45,000 Buddhist temples, making it a haven for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and cultural immersion. The Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew stands out among these with its innovative and eco-friendly design, offering a truly memorable experience for all who visit.
[1] [Source 1] [4] [Source 4] [5] [Source 5]
- The unique "Temple of a Million Bottles" is a testament to environmental science, showcasing the possibilities of sustainable living through its eco-friendly construction.
- The temple's lifestyle guidelines, such as removing shoes before entering worship areas and showing respect to monks, demonstrate the integration of the local environment with its cultural practices.
- Despite its location in the home-and-garden of Khun Han district, the Wat Pa Maha Chedi Kaew offers significant contributions to the broader discussion on climate-change, challenging conventional methods of temple construction and offering an inspiring example of recycling.
