A complete change of scenery awaits you in Ile-de-France. Nestled in 5 hectares of verdant parkland, this former chateau, just a stone’s throw from Paris, has been transformed into a veritable Thai pagoda, offering a breathtaking sight: nearly 400 golden Buddha statues sit majestically on the throne. An unexpected spiritual interlude on the outskirts of the capital…
Wat Thammapathip: A Thai pagoda hidden just a stone’s throw from Paris, in the heart of an ancient castle…
Imagine strolling through a Thai pagoda without leaving Paris! It’s happening in Moissy-Cramayel, in the Seine-et-Marne region to be precise. Just 33 km from the center of the capital, this ancient castle has been transformed into a Buddhist temple that will blow your mind and take you on a journey to Thailand. The château is Château de Lugny, transformed by the Association Internationale thaïe des bouddhistes en France. Since 2000, this little-known site has been inhabited by Buddhist monks, and is littered with prayer and meditation rooms open to all. And if you take off your shoes, you can even meditate there. But the most spectacular part is waiting for you outside… in the castle grounds, where an incredible spiritual treasure is revealed in the open air…
Thailand, 40 minutes from Paris, with over 400 golden Buddhas
In the heart of the grounds of this ancient château lies a veritable spiritual treasure. Lined up majestically, almost 400 gilded Buddha statues stand silent vigil, impressive in their grandeur and serenity. They seem suspended in time, ready to receive the prayers and offerings of their devotees. Then, as you stroll along the garden’s peaceful paths, you discover powerful messages scattered here and there, like so many invitations to reflection: “Don’t destroy the future with the present” or “Live in the present and be”. Simple, yet profound words to ponder.
A haven of peace, in a 5-hectare park with free access…
In this little haven of peace, everything invites you to slow down. Contemplative walks, meditation, family time… serenity reigns supreme. A soothing, unspoilt place to visit with the utmost respect. And between two strolls, you can even enjoy traditional Thai street food at ultra-affordable prices (between 5 and 6 euros a dish) while the kids play on the swings set up especially for them. And around the food stalls, numerous picnic tables are set up for families. Yes, the Wat Thammapathip pagoda has something enchanting and exotic about it. A place of worship conducive to meditation, it’s also a place for sharing, offering a real immersion in Thai culture. A hidden nugget, where you can take a breath of oxygen, refocus and rediscover your inner peace.
Practical information
Wat Thammapathip International, 243 Rue des Marronniers, 77550 Moissy-Cramayel
Open Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. – Free admission