Often we plan on taking trips to discover new cuultures and environments but often overlook what is right in our own backyard. We’ve visited a number of Buddhist temples in Thailand, Hong Kong and Taiwan without realizing there are some only a short drive from home
Dis covering A Traditional Buddhist Thai Temple In Tampa
Wat Mongkolratanaram is a Buddhist Thai temple on the banks of the Palm River in Tampa, Florida. It was founded in 1981 as well as dedicated and registered as a temple on 19 May 1981. Besides a temple, it acts as an education and support centre. The temple’s grounds host a Sunday food market featuring homemade Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine, providing a vibrant community atmosphere.
The temples regular activities include chanting, meditation, and cultural events such as the Kathina festival, making it a hub for area Thai Buddhists as well as a popular focus for community engagement.
Address: 5306 Palm River Rd, Tampa, FL 33619
Hours: Open Varies. Closes Daily 5 PM
Actually the U.S. has about 350 Thai Buddhist temples with supporting Buddhist communities, including over 60 Shin Buddhist communities, that exist under organizations like the Buddhist Churches of America. A quick search found three Buddhist temples in the Orlando area that include the remarkable Guang Ming Temple.
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