Wat Chaiyo or Wat Ket Chaiyo was built during the Ayutthaya Period. It became important during the reign of King Rama IV. The venerable Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To Phromrangsi) of Wat Rakhang Khositaram built the large Buddha image in a subduing Mara gesture and placed it outdoors. However, the image collapsed soon after construction. He re-built it in the same pose but smaller, covered it in plaster and without gold leaf. As the image could be seen from far, the villagers called it Luangpho To (meaning huge image). Further temple restoration during the reign of King Rama V the Buddha image collapsed again. The King ordered the renovation of the image with steel bars inside. The new image was covered in gold leaf and monks’ robes and was given the new name by King Rama V the Great “Phra Maha Phutthaphim”. A new main chapel was constructed to house the image. Upon completion, King Rama V the Great established the temple as one of the royal temples.
To pay respect to Luangpho ...
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 ...
