Devotion Overflows as Buddhists Join in Casting 6-Meter 'Walking Buddha' Statue

Overflowing with faith, Buddhists from both within and outside the area participated in the casting ceremony of a large Walking Buddha statue standing 6 meters tall at Khao Ploy Meditation Center in Sattahip, believed to bring blessings of progress in life. On April 27, 2026, the ceremony drew extensive participation, with the atmosphere of devotion filling the grounds of Khao Ploy Meditation Center in Sattahip District, Chachoengsao Province. The significant ceremony was presided over by Phra Ratchavisutthimuni (Luang Pu Yuean Kantiphalo), abbot of Khao Sala Atulthanachairo Temple (Thammayut sect) in Surin Province and former abbot of Surin Province, along with renowned monks from the eastern region including Chanthaburi, Rayong, and Chachoengsao. On the civilian side, Lieutenant General Kravit Chayaratchai, Commander of the Expeditionary Naval Squadron, presided over the ceremony with participation from various naval units including the Gulf Patrol Division, Frigates 1 and 2, Helicopter Carrier Group, and Mine Sweeper Group, demonstrating unified cooperation and devotion across all sectors. The ceremony's highlight centered on casting the 'Buddha's Head,' allowing devotees to contribute pure gold and precious ornaments to become part of the statue. The long-held belief holds that participating in casting the Walking Buddha brings blessings of life advancement, resembling the steady forward steps of the Buddha himself. Khao Ploy Meditation Center has become an important destination for merit-making in Sattahip, set on a hillside offering stunning views of Sattahip Bay and scattered islands in blue waters, serving as both a religious site and increasingly popular spiritual tourism destination. The ceremony represents not only Buddhist faith but also emphasizes the significance of the Buddha statue as a focal point for people's hearts, which continues to hold power in Thai society across all eras.