Phra Non Song Khrueang Nora is a reclining image of Buddha where ‘He’ is depicted in a death pose in a state which is described as ‘entering Nibbana’. This deviation adds to its uniqueness and sets it apart from other Buddha images found in Thailand or anywhere else in the world. This image of Buddha is kept in a temple named Wat Phukhao Thong which is located about 20 kilometers from the city and is also called ‘Manorah Reclining Buddha’.
The head of the image is referred to as its most distinguishing feature for it is decorated by a headdress of Nora Dance called Throet which is considered sacred. Moreover it is also the royal ornament of a dance which is worn during an aboriginal performance in Southern Thailand. A Trang car rental is a reasonable choice for moving in and about the city, moreover the deals offer at Thailand Cars Rentals cover various facilities which give them an upper hand to other public and local transport.
A Brief History
It was built in Srivijaya Era and has been declared as an historical monument by Fine Arts Department. There is a legend which says that the Manorah style decoration on Buddha’s image was inspired by a costume that was given by Phraya Saifahfad to his granddaughter who loved the Manorah Chatri dance; it is also known as Manorah style reclining Buddha.
A Bit about the Temple
In addition to the statue the temple Wat Phukhao Thong also holds the statue of King Naresuan- the one whose orders resulted in the construction of the temple in the first place after he defeated the Burmese. It holds a rich architectural style, where steps lead to the upper portions of the temple. It is interesting to note that the lower portions of the temple have been done in Burmese style whereas the upper ones have been done in Ayutthaya style.
Opening Time and Admission fee: It open daily Monday through Sunday from 8 am till 5 pm and like all other temples no admission fee is charged.
