Research & Article

This article argues that the exquisite tile roofs of Thai temples with their glimmering nagas are not part of the Buddhist tradition, which originated in India, but rather the consequence of Chinese influence. Through a comprehensive history of Indian temples and a study of various aspects of Thai Buddhist temples, specifically soaring roofs, celestial bouquets and nagas, Indian-Buddhist influence is disproven. Furthermore, through an exploration of land routes between China and Thailand established in the thirteenth century, as well as subsequent Chinese immigration to Thailand, the plausibility of Chinese influence on Thai temples is established. It is concluded that while Chinese migrants did not influence major changes of design in Thai Buddhist temples, they most likely contributed critical technological skills. This expertise would have fostered local trends in development extending well beyond the roof and its adornment. Thus, without Chinese influence, the great size and grace of Thai temples would not have been achieved.