Buddha Mountain

Sitting on top of “Buddha Mountain” on the Nakkerd Hills, overlooking the Chalong Bay, Phang Nga Bay and the Andaman Sea of Phuket, is a symbol of importance to the Buddhist Thais. The Mingmongkol Buddha, which is still under construction, sits 45 metres high and expands 26 metres in width. This scaffold monument will soon be covered with pearly white Burmese marble and will become one of Phuket’s most prominent landmarks.

From its first conception ten years ago to today, the people of Thailand has possessed a steadfast purpose to create something that would show honour to their King, their belief, and showcase in the highest and most scenic location for all to see and appreciate. Interestingly, this proposed 30 million baht project has taken some unexpected turns.

First, there were the construction setbacks such as height restrictions that had to be resolved. They also encountered issues regard the various permits needed to build in an area of virgin trees.

Then, of course, the financial challenge of building something of this magnitude with only donated money. Currently, the project has managed to raise over 20 million baht, not including the donated marble. Thais from all over the country have come to pay homage and donate to the latent landmark. The monks and nuns live in make-shift monasteries near the construction site and sell various items to help raise the funds needed to complete the statue. A person can purchase individual bricks and write their name or their business’ name for future prosperity. Even the foreigners have enthusiastically stepped up and contributed to the development.

Internet websites have spawn and have been fairly successful in generating funds. People from all over the world have contributed, making this a successful international mission for Phuket.

At the moment, the dirt road that extends three kilometres from the Buddha can be a bit daunting after a rain storm, but a visit is definitely in order. The view from Mingmongkol Buddha’s perspective is stunning and warrants nothing but the utmost respect for the visionaries.

From my limited perspective, I see a cement statue covered with metal rods from every direction. I see the dirt road that is still damp from last night’s rain. I see the peddlers selling their Buddha images.

Then I watched an old lady quietly passing by. She had in her hands three incense sticks, a small yellow candle, a lotus flower and a tiny piece of paper. My curiosity was piqued. She, with little effort, bowed to her knees with the items in her prayer-formed hands. She bowed her head to the ground three times and then said a prayer in a language I still don’t understand. In the creases of her eyes, I saw a tear gently flowing down her cheek. That tear suddenly gave me a different perspective as I looked up at the statue.

From his perspective, I could see beauty. The houses and lights among the mountains, the palm trees and birds of paradise flora surrounding the most pristine beaches created a landscape distinctive to Phuket. As I looked around, I witnessed Thais and foreigners bowed together in prayer or serene revere. I watched as the monks focused on their daily tasks. Each person I saw had a look of peace on their faces. It was truly amazing.

I didn’t realize how long I’ve been up there. When I looked towards the west, I saw the most picturesque painting in the sky. The clouds danced among a vivid orange and purple background. I was mesmerized beyond the disappearance of the Sun.

It was getting dark, so I headed home. As I turned back for a final look at the object of my trip, I no longer saw a cement statue wrapped in metal. I saw the love that each person had as they spent their time, money and their hearts for something in which they believed. I saw a symbol that went beyond that represented all walks of life regardless of economic or political or religious status. I realized I, too, am a part of this unique and magnificent project. This statue has much more potential than Phuket’s best landmark. It has the potential to represent love and world humanity. Now I think I understand.