Nestled along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the 200 year old Kuan Yin Shrine is a true depiction of serenity. Unfolding beautifully from its every corner is the story of Kuan Yin, the Chinese goddess of mercy. When in this region to visit the shrine, a good choice of accommodation among the many Koh Phangan Resorts would be the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa. Located amidst lush greenery, this resort offers an interesting range of comfortable villas and recreational activities to choose from.
As the 3000 year-old legend goes, the shrine was originally constructed as a tribute to Miao Shan, a princess who gave up her arm and eye to cure the father that sent her into exile when she refused an arranged marriage. In present day, thousands of women seeking offspring, fisher folk, merchants, travelers, and farmers flock here in order to seek blessing from the goddess who hears the cries that rise from the human world.
Set on a flourishing mountainous plain in Koh Phangan, the construction is made up of three distinct sections. The main shrine room, which is guarded by two ornate dragons set upon its roof, houses an immaculate smiling figurine of the Buddhist goddess with 18 arms. This is joined by two lower chambers, one of which is used for guest accomodation and the other as a place for meditation and sermons. The splendor of the temple is further enhanced by a beautiful mosaic of Chinese characters that embellish the doors of the shrine, along with the ancient red lanterns and sculpted Chinese warriors decorating the rest of this site. Outside the temple sits an exquisite statue of Buddha facing the glimmering waters of the river.
The visit to the Kuan Yin Shrine does indeed bring peace and order to the chaos present in our lives, and with magnificence radiating from every corner as such what more is there that is left to say.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.