THE EMERALD BUDDHA
SEASONAL COSTUMEÂ CHANGING
SUMMER Â Â Â Â Â Â RAINYÂ Â Â Â Â Â WINTER
In a ceremony of great reverence, the Emerald Buddha’s ceremonial costumes are changed three times a year—one for each season: Summer, Rainy, and Winter. This ritual is performed only by the King of Thailand, and each custom-made outfit is valued at approximately 3.8 million USD.
During this royal ceremony, a procession of monks and dignitaries accompanies the King, who sprinkles water over the faithful, bestowing good fortune for the upcoming season. The costumes include:
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A diamond-encrusted golden robe for the hot season
A solid gold robe for the cool season
A gold-plated monk’s robe with a headdress for the rainy season
The Summer and Rainy Season costumes were commissioned by King Rama I (1737–1809), while King Rama III (1824–1851) later introduced the third costume for the Winter season. When not being worn by the Emerald Buddha, these ceremonial garments are displayed in the Pavilion of Regalia, Royal Decorations, and Thai Coins on the Grand Palace grounds.
EMERALD BUDDHA
The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in the Grand Palace itself is the main attraction. A figurine of the meditating Buddha made from one solid piece of green jade, clothed in gold and diamonds. It is greatly revered from the Royal family to Thai nationals alike, as Thailand’s utmost precious religious icon...
RECLINING BUDDHA
The Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) is located 700 meters south of The Grand Palace. It is a world-renowned 46 meter long gold plated reclining Buddha. Its pose represents entry into complete spiritual enlightenment ending all worldly reincarnations. Within the surrounding corridor there are 108 bronze bowls representing the 108 auspicious characteristics of The Buddha. It is believed dropping coins into these bowls brings wealth and prosperity...
