Wat Pha Lat temple issued an official announcement on its Facebook page in both Thai and English on January 18. The post included images of several tourists performing acrobatic yoga poses and striking stances on cliffs and structures within the temple grounds. The announcement urged visitors and Buddhists to cooperate, respect the sacred space, and adhere to regulations during their visits.
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Images of tourists posing offensively within the grounds of Wat Pha Lat temple. Photo: Wat Pha Lat - Sakthakamee. |
Images of tourists posing offensively within the grounds of Wat Pha Lat temple. Photo: Wat Pha Lat - Sakthakamee.
The information quickly spread across social media, sparking numerous reactions. The majority of comments criticized the tourists' actions as offensive, disrespectful, and unsuitable for a religious institution.
The temple management stated that Wat Pha Lat serves as a regular religious site for monks and a historical monument that requires preservation. Consequently, prohibited behaviors within the temple grounds include: practicing yoga or other exercise activities, climbing on statues, stupas, waterfalls, or rocks, wearing swimwear or inappropriate attire, and creating noise that disturbs the solemnity.
The temple management also warned that if such disrespectful behavior continues, the attraction might close to tourists to protect its sanctity.
Previously, on January 7, a group of young female tourists wearing bikinis, sitting and lying on the grass near the moat surrounding the city, close to Wat Ratchamonthian in Chiang Mai, also faced strong criticism from the Thai online community.
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A view of Wat Pha Lat temple. Photo: Khaosod |
A view of Wat Pha Lat temple. Photo: Khaosod
Wat Pha Lat is an ancient temple situated at the foot of Doi Suthep mountain, approximately 7 km from central Chiang Mai. Unlike many temples in the city center that attract large crowds, this temple maintains a tranquil atmosphere with natural forests and waterfalls. Often referred to as a "temple in the jungle," it appeals to visitors seeking peace and spiritual experiences.
Tuan Anh (Source: Khaosod)
