Educational Trip to Southern Thailand

Summarised from Sis. Lim Lay Hong’s report (Than Hsiang, Penang)
by Sayalay Obhasi, MA1 student
In conjunction with the International Buddhist College (IBC) graduation ceremony held on September 28, 2025, Than Hsiang Temple, Penang, organized a six-day, five-night educational trip to Southern Thailand from September 27 to October 2, 2025. A total of twelve participants joined the trip, including one lecturer, Dr. Ooi Eng Jin, and three M.A. students from IBC.
The trip commenced at Hat Yai Municipal Park, where participants admired the 19.9-meter golden standing Buddha and the majestic Guan Yin statue, both offering panoramic views of the city.

On the second day, the group attended the IBC graduation ceremony - a joyful and meaningful occasion - before continuing their journey to Nakhon Si Thammarat.

The third day featured a visit to Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan. Its main stupa, Phra Borommathat Chedi was built in the early 13th century by King Sri Dhammasokaraja. The stupa, designed in Lanna architectural style, enshrines the Buddha’s tooth relics. Other notable visits included the City Pillar Shrine (San Lak Mueang) and Wat Yang Yai, renowned for its distinctive pink and purple architecture.

On the fourth day, we travelled to Laem Prathap Pier to witness the rare pink dolphins. We then visited Koh Nui Nok Island, famous for its footprint-shaped freshwater pond associated with Luang Pu Thuad. The journey continued to Wat Phra Borommathat in Chaiya, a first-class royal temple showcasing Srivijaya-style art, followed by a visit to Wat Suan Mokkh, the renowned meditation centre founded in 1932 by Bhikkhu Buddhadasa.
The fifth day included visits to the Chaiya National Museum, a prominent historical and archaeological museum in Surat Thani, and Wat Samuhanimit, where participants viewed valuable ancient palm-leaf manuscripts.

The journey concluded in Phatthalung, with visits to Thale Noi Waterbird Park, also known as the “Sea of Red Lotuses,” and Sampaothai, an artistic park featuring giant sculptures of a buffalo, dragon, ship, and “King Kong.” The final stop was Wat Khao Hor, an ancient temple over 900 years old, featuring sacred caves, Buddha footprints, stupas, and statues - offering a serene and inspiring end to the journey.

We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to Sis. Lim Lay Hong, the main coordinator of this trip, for her dedicated effort and meticulous planning. Our sincere gratitude also goes to Ven. Zhen Ru for leading the group throughout the journey, and to Dr. Ooi Eng Jin for his insightful sharing on the historical and spiritual significance of the sites we visited. Last but not least, we extend our sincere thanks to all participants and supporters whose contributions made this trip a meaningful and memorable experience.

Full report in English:
https://www.thanhsiang.org/en/node/2190

Full report in Chinese:
https://thanhsiang.org/ch/node/6709