Ever seen something marvelous and wonderful that mesmerizes you completely, but totally non-understandable as to how could it have taken shape? There are many things in the world that come into this category. And, you can witness one such wonderful and mesmerizing thing if you are planning to visit Thailand. Well, you must have seen a lot of wonderful and beautiful Buddha images and idols, but this one is absolutely and totally different from what you could have even imagined ever.
If you happen to be in Thailand anytime, you cannot afford to miss one of the most iconic Buddha idols – Buddha head entwined within the roots of a tree! Made out of stone completely, visitors wonder how it could have happened. The Buddha head in tree roots is also one of the most common Thailand-related images that you’ll see on guidebooks and postcards. The wonderful site is located at Wat Mahathat, Ayuthhaya, which is the old capital of Thailand. Located around 20 kilometers north of Bang Pa-In, Ayuthhaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ex-capital has numerous ruins of various buildings that were invaded and destroyed by Burmese army back in 1767.
Tracking back to 1767, a lot of temples were destroyed and numerous idols of Buddha were vandalized by the Burmese army during that invasion. Post-invasion, the place remained abandoned until the Department of Fine Art began restoration of the site in 1950.
However, no one knows how could the Buddha head have entwined in the tree roots, there are several theories supporting this magnificent site. While one theory suggests quite logically that Buddha head might have entwined in the roots while the area was uninhabited, the other theory reiterates that a thief moved the Buddha idol’s head away from the temple in order to hide it. Well, no one, except time, exactly knows what could have happened. History has a lot of things in store for us that we will never come to know. At the end, it is better to believe your eyes and enjoy the magnificence.
Tourists who might have planned to visit Thailand for the first time need to follow a few guidelines while visiting this place. This place, in addition to being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also sacred. It is considered pious and holds high importance in Thai culture, and every tourist should respect it. Visitors may photograph the statue, but in a kneeling position, as to pay their respect. Also, touching this statue is prohibited.
Photo Credits : http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/countries/thailand-guide/ 
