Thailand is a very religious country, and there are an abundance of mythological creatures, as well as statues depicting them. Figurines of different creatures can be seen everywhere, in particular, in iconic places near temples. However, tourists rarely pay attention to such trifles, trying to quickly see the main attractions and run around in the local markets in the hustle and bustle.
Before entering the Thai temple, we suggest that you stop and admire these creatures. They are placed in front of the entrance, since they are the keepers of the temple from evil spirits. Many of these creatures come from the legendary Himafan forest, which is as mysterious and hidden from view as the Buddhist country of Shangri-La.
Snake-like creature Nag
This is the protector of Buddha. It is a creature with a human torso and a human head, which is covered with a fan of snake heads. It lives in water, caves and even underground. Nag often acts as a protector against bad spirits. These creatures in the form of bas-reliefs can be seen on the walls of temples or the stairs that lead to them. Sometimes the sculpture of the Nagas is placed on roofs, doors and windows. Nag is a symbol of wisdom.
Garuda
This creature is half-human, half-bird. This king of birds appears in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology. In the Rigveda, Garuda is first mentioned as the sun god. The origin, achievements and exploits of Garuda are described in the first book of the great epic Mahabharata. Ferocious figures of these creatures can be seen at the National Royal Barge Museum in Bangkok, as well as at various temple complexes across the country.
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Kinnari
This creature has a female body (depicted with bare chest), while she has a bird's tail. You will find several figurines of these creatures near the Wat Arun Temple on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.
Upsonsi
Upsonsi materializes as half-woman-half-lion. Some of these graceful gilded figures can be seen on the upper terrace at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok.
Hongsa
This creature looks like a swan and can be seen at the National Royal Barge Museum in Bangkok. Hongsa proudly flaunts on the royal barge. Also, figurines of this creature can be found on the tops of temple roofs in different parts of the kingdom.
Yaksha
It is a kind of natural spirit. Yaksha is a peaceful creature that protects forests and mountains, or it can be a monstrous spirit, like a rakshasa, a demon who is not averse to feasting on a lost traveler in the wilderness. Yaksha statues rise above the entrances to a large number of temple complexes in Thailand, for example, such statues are in the Grand Royal Palace and at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok.
Makara
It is a sea monster, part crocodile, part elephant, part dolphin. These creatures, who are responsible for the weather, are depicted on the balustrades of temples.
GUSAKOVA IRINA