Wat Kuti Thong วัดกุฎีทอง is an active temple located on the northern side of the old
Lopburi River. It is split into two parts by a road that runs through the center of the monastery.
The monks live in the buildings closest to the river and the ancient ruins are on the opposite side of the road.
Wat Kuti Thong is framed by many ancient walls and an arched entrance gateway. These can still be seen directly next to the road, but they are also visible completely around the monastery’s boundaries. Some of the walls are quite high in places.
The main sermon hall sits on top of a large mound, which may have been the remains of an older building. Two gold painted Buddha images sit in the taming mara poses on the main altar.
The sermon hall is a modern construction in the Ratanakosin style.
On the north side if the hall are two large chedis. They sit on top of a huge mound, so some parts of them may still be concealed underground. Both chedi are bell-shaped, which suggests that ...
Vladivostok, Russia’s vibrant gateway to the Pacific.
Founded in 1860 as a military outpost, Vladivostok quickly grew into a major naval base and the eastern terminus of the Trans-Siberian Railway. Its strategic location on the Golden Horn Bay made it a crucial fortress in the Russian Far East, shaping its rich and dramatic history through wars, revolutions, and periods of rapid development.
Wander through the charming downtown area, where elegant historic buildings line the streets, reflecting the city’s unique blend of European and Asian architectural influences.
Admire the stunning golden-domed churches, including the iconic Pokrovsky Cathedral, and pay your respects at the impressive War Memorial statue dedicated to the defenders of the city. The atmosphere here feels both timeless and alive with stories from the past.
The majestic Vladivostok Railway Station, the dramatic final stop of the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway. With its beautiful historic facade and bustling energy, it ...
On April 12, 2026, Orthodox Easter (Pascha) in Vladivostok reached its public climax at the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral (Cathedral of the Transfiguration). This grand cathedral on the central square, overlooking Golden Horn Bay, served as the destination for the city’s main Easter procession (Крестный ход).
The procession began at 14:00 from Pokrovsky Cathedral and wound through the center, arriving at Spaso-Preobrazhensky around 14:30. There, Metropolitan Pavel of Vladivostok and Primorsky addressed the crowd with blessings and resurrection greetings. Clergy then blessed the traditional Easter foods—kulichi, paskha, and especially the vibrant red-dyed eggs symbolizing Christ’s blood and new life.
Believers exchanged the joyful Paschal greeting “Христос воскрес!” (“Christ is risen!”) and “Воистину воскрес!” (“Truly He is risen!”) while sharing and cracking the blessed eggs. The square in front of the cathedral quickly turned into...
Planning a trip to Russia in 2026 starts with checking your nationality’s visa requirements early, as most travelers need either an electronic visa for short stays up to 30 days or a traditional tourist visa obtained through a consulate or visa center, often requiring an invitation letter from a registered agency and proof of travel insurance. Some countries enjoy visa-free entry for limited periods, while others must apply well in advance—always verify the latest details on official Russian government sites since rules can shift.
Decide on the best timing based on your preferences: summer from June to August brings pleasant weather, long daylight hours especially during St. Petersburg’s famous White Nights, and lively festivals, though it is the peak season with higher crowds and prices. Shoulder seasons in late spring or early autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer visitors for a more relaxed experience, while winter delivers magical snowy landscapes ideal for cultural events but ...
