Buddhism is Thailand's national religion. About 94% of all Thais follow Buddha's teachings. There are 4% Muslims (especially in the south of the country) and the remaining 2% are Hindus, Christians and atheists. Even in the smallest of villages one will find a Wat (temple) and often this is also the social meeting point of the village. Almost every Thai male will, in the course of his life, spend some time as a monk in a temple. Monks are highly respected in Thailand, and it is a joyous occasion for any family when one of its sons is being ordained.
The most famous Thai temples are without a doubt Wat Phra Kaeo and Wat Po, wich are both in Bangkok. Their magnificent buildings amaze thousands of tourists every day.
What you should observe when entering a Wat: Just like visiting a church in the western world, you should be suitably dressed. Don't step on the sill at the entrance, step over it. Don't point your feet in the direction of a monk or a Buddha-statue. Often this mistake is made inadvertantly when visitors sit down on the floor while praying. Women should never touch a monk. This would put him in an awkward position and he would have to go through a lengthy cleansing process. Any offerings taken to a Wat will be placed on a yellow cloth which the monk will then pull towards him.
