213. Ucieczka od miejskiego zgiełku - miejsca na relaks blisko Hua Hin

To the west, Hua Hin is surrounded by forested, rocky hills. Some of them conceal cavernous caves. Today we will visit Kai Lon Grotto, located just 33 kilometers from the city center. This is one of those places that, although created by nature, has been utilized by the faithful as magnificent temples. After all, can one imagine more beautiful interior decorations than those formed over millions of years from billions of drops carrying limestone? These are massive columns and icicles, frozen limestone waterfalls, and a group of stalagmites, like human figures immersed in eternal prayer, illuminated by warm natural light streaming through openings in the ceiling. We are alone here. The prevailing silence and the surrounding limestone shapes spark imagination and awe at these wonders of nature, painstakingly crafted over millennia. Although the final kilometer of winding, gravel road leading to the parking lot and the steep stairs were exhausting, the effort was worth it. Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1eMiFbubK9bZ1... Driving north to Cha Am, it's worth making a short stop at Wat Marikathaywan Temple. The golden Buddha statue towering over the grounds is clearly visible from the road. The terrace at the top of the stairs is surrounded by small shrines – from there, you can see the hills of Kaeng Krachan National Park. The wihan (assembly hall), in the form of an artificial grotto, is located in the plinth of the giant monument. The temple grounds include a funeral home and a cemetery – hence the numerous stupas – tombs with urns – surrounding the ubosot – the ordination hall. There is also a Buddhist monastery here, and visitors often hear sutras recited by the monks. And a botanical surprise – a cannonball tree. Link to Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gncXSTsMYfny4... Music: Choir Background Music by Migfus20 -- https://freesound.org/s/560480/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Emotional Mysterious Music by Migfus20 -- https://freesound.org/s/683270/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Relaxing Music by Migfus20 -- https://freesound.org/s/683262/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Emotional Music by Migfus20 -- https://freesound.org/s/646395/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 relaxation music #15.mp3 by ZHRØ -- https://freesound.org/s/524065/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 mystery+puzzle music - piano version (no drums) by ZHRØ -- https://freesound.org/s/807894/ -- License: Attribution 4.0