Hindus and Buddhists alike regard the lotus bud as a sacred shape. It is used in many art forms and religious symbols, especially in temples.

Other examples include the traditional Thai greeting, the wai, which involves the cupping of one’s hands into the shape of a lotus bud.

For those who practice advanced yoga or meditation, the lotus position is a favoured sitting posture. This involves the participant resting the back of the right foot on the left thigh, and the converse for the left foot (please don’t try it!!).

During your travels in Thailand, you may see lotuses growing wild in ponds. Usually pink or white in colour, they are distinguished from their water lily cousins by having long leaves and flower stalks rising well above the water level.

The underground tubers of the lotus are a source of Vitamin C and the seeds, boiled in sugar, are a popular dessert. Have a look in the pond in front of our Resort Shop.