The metropolitan area of Bangkok is estimated to be home to at least 400 Buddhist temples (wats), with only about 100 of them no longer operational. The most common sect of Buddhism in Thailand is Theravāda, which places a great value on its monastic orders. As such, most temples in Bangkok will actually home and educate monks, depending on donations for their food, clothing, and other needs. Since a large percentage of the male population will think of becoming a monk as a temporary option rather than a lifetime vocation, wats…
