Wat Huay Mongkol was home to the monk who was famed for his miracles. The legendary Southern Thai monk, immensely popular with the Southern Thais and increasingly so elsewhere in the Kingdom. The huge Luang Phor Thuad statue is seated on a pedestal with four other smaller images in niches where the faithful can paste gold-leaf on Luang Phor Thuad. The big Buddha statue was commissioned by Queen Sirikit of Thailand. Two massive black wooden elephants stand either side of the steps, decoratively carved and festooned in a variety of tulle ribbons and bows. Local people circle the elephants, walking under the bellies of the carved beasts, nine times for good luck. As they walk they pray, or ask for favours, merit, happiness, or just to be lucky in their lives. Near the entrance there is the statue of King Mongut on horseback. It is possible to take an elephant ride within the complex and see sunflowers fields. see Hua Hin Wat Huay Mongkol photos |