Buddhism is the major religion in Thailand and it is also the largest and fastest-growing religion in China. Thus, in both countries we can see temples everywhere. Thais usually go to the temple or wat to pray, offer some merits to the monks such as food, fruits, money, saffron robes, etc or perform religious rites. Some go there to light some candles or incense while they say their wish. Unlike Christian churches which are used to gather together and listen to the sermon or mass and sing praises or hymns on a regular basis such as on Sundays or Saturdays, temples are used as a gathering place for people who are attending religious ceremonies such as funeral or a cremation where monks officiate the the funeral prayers usually in chant.
In Thailand, temples are favorite tourist attractions and have become one of its major symbols. Thai temples can be easily distinguished as they have some distinct architectural features. Can you tell whether these temples are Thai or Chinese?
The curved roof-ends give the tip of the eaves a highly distinctive look and add to the graceful appearance of Thai temples and traditional houses. These are symbolic of the 'nagas' or river dragons.