Wat Florida Dhammaram | A Mini Thailand In Central Florida

Want to see a glimpse of Thailand in Central Florida, visit Wat Florida Dhammaram — A Buddhist monastery in Kissimmee which is around 20 miles from Orlando! From its splendid temple to pagodas to ubiquitous presence of Buddha, Wat Dhammaram showcases the replicas of the Buddha’s sacred places of pilgrimage as they are found in India.

In my series of finding hidden gems in Central Florida, I found Wat Florida Dhammaram while stumbling on Google and decided to visit there last weekend. I was completely blown by the serenity of this place. It was so peaceful in the middle of all the tourists’ chaos that you could only hear the sound of birds or your own footsteps.

As soon as you’ll enter inside the monastery, you’ll see the two giant statues of Ravana in red and green colors and golden dragons on both the sides of the temple known as Vihara Maha Mayadevi. It was built in commemoration of the Buddha’s birthplace in Lumbini, Nepal.

The Thai architecture of Vihara Maha Mayadevi is quite impressive with intrinsic design and details. The combination of red and golden colors give an opulence vibe and sets a positive aura around. This temple is one of the main spots for chanting and other rituals. 

The next iconic site in Wat Florida Dhammaram is Mahabodhi Temple. It is a replica of Mahabodhi Temple of Bodh Gaya in India. The literal meaning of Mahabodhi Temple is ‘Great Awakening Temple’. Mahabodhi Temple in India is an ancient UNESCO World heritage site. It is said that Gautam Buddha got enlightenment sitting under the Bodhi tree. 

Mahabodhi Temple has been one of the major pilgrimage destinations of Buddhists in India for over 2000 years. 

At the back of the Mahabodhi temple, you’ll find the replica of Dhamekha Stupa of Sarnath as well as The Parinibbana Temple of Kushinagar in India.

The Dhamekh Stupa is originally located in Sarnath, near Varanasi in the North Eastern part of India. The Dhamek Stupa is considered as a spot where Buddha gave the first sermon to his first five disciples after attaining enlightenment, leading to nirvana.

Next to Dhamekha Stupa, there’s is a replica of The Parinibbana Temple in Kushinagar, India which is said to be the death place of Buddha.

There’s also a massive statue of Buddha located in the garden called Buddhalila (Walking Buddha). The statue is twenty-two feet tall and it symbolizes the teachings of the Buddha and the presence of Buddhism in the United States of America.

I also got an opportunity to speak with Abbot of the Wat Florida Dhammaram – Than Chao Khun Sunan. He was very friendly and gave me some insights on meditation and teachings of Buddha. 

Dress code to visit Wat Florida Dhammaram:

As it is a religious place, visitors are not allowed to wear tank tops and shorts. Wear anything that covers your body. You also have to remove your shoes while walking inside the temple and shrine. 

Why you should visit Wat Florida Dhammaram?

1. If you want to visit somewhere peaceful in Central Florida away from the tourist chaos.
2. If you want to meditate or see the chanting by monks.
3. If you want to experience a new culture.

Should you take your kids?

The Wat Florida Dhammaram hosts many events throughout the year. You can refer to the calendar given on their website and visit with your entire family as everyone is welcome there. However, if possible, don’t take your kids on regular days as the place is for meditation and am sure this won’t entice many kids!

Is there any admission fee to enter Wat Florida Dhammaram? 

The monastery is free to visit and everyone is welcome there. However, there’s a donation box where you can give a contribution that goes in the maintenance of this place.  

The Verdict

I had a wonderful time visiting Wat Florida Dhammaram and would highly recommend to anyone who is looking for some tranquil place to explore inner-self or meditate in Central Florida. If you’re interested in learning more about Buddhism and the teachings of the Buddha, the temple hosts Dhamma Talks every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month at 3:00 pm which is free to attend and everyone is welcome.

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Do share your experience if you have been to Wat Florida Dhammaram in the comments below? If not, what do you think about this monastery?

Till then, Happy Wandering!
Ana

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