At the gates of Paris and, more precisely, in Moissy-Cramayel in Seine-et-Marne (77), hides an unusual place: the Wat Thammapathip, installed in the Castle of Lugny. It is a Buddhist temple to be discovered absolutely in the beautiful days to travel and to be disoriented very close to home!
SUMMARY
The history of the place
A space with many facets
The Thai food offered
Practical information
1. The history of the place
Let's start at the beginning: what is the history behind this atypical place?
In 2000, the Castle of Lugny, dating from the 19th century, was bought by the Thai International Association of Buddhists of France and Buddhist monks settled there.
2. A space with many facets
This place is confusing at first in that it is located in the middle of a residential area, but instantly transposes you to Thailand once you cross its gates. Moreover, this place presents several facets. Indeed, it is at the same time a space of prayer, meditation, celebration of Thai festivals, meditation and Qi Gong on Sundays and finally a tourist place with a Thai restaurant. It is thus a space open to all, but which requires the respect of the place.
The beginning of the visit is marked by a long alley lined with French flags and statues of Buddha, both golden and white, of various sizes. These statues are tombs (the urns rest inside the statues) on which the relatives come to collect themselves and at the bottom of which you can observe various offerings (incense, fruits, flowers, etc.). There are a total of 400 Buddhas spread over 5 hectares of park. Quotes leading to reflection accompany you throughout your journey. Here is one from Buddha: "Accept what is, let go of what was, trust in what will be". At the end of the path, the Castle of Lugny reveals itself. The place is beautiful, soothing, and full of spirituality.
3. The Thai food offered
Every weekend between April and October 2023 (from 11am to 9pm), it will be possible to eat on site as part of the Thai Street Food Festival. The food proposed is, as you will have understood, Thai. It is simple but varied, delicious and copious and at very reasonable prices (6 euros the dish). Everything is made on the spot and with fresh ingredients. It works with a system of tickets that you have to buy before you can go to the stand you want! The welcome is warm. Tables and chairs are at your disposal inside, but also in the park of the castle. It is also possible to eat on the lawn. Just remember to bring some cash if you want to eat.
Moreover, the funds obtained from the restoration will be used to renovate the adjoining castle. Indeed, the whole complex would need more maintenance and renovation, but funds are needed and this is being done little by little.
4. Practical information
Wat Thammapathip is a great place to spend time with your family and children as the park is very large and there are swings everywhere.
Finally, a large parking lot is available on the site which is accessible from Paris via the N6. It is also possible to get there by public transport by taking the RER D to the Lieusaint-Moissy station, then the 22 bus to the La Ferme stop (or on foot from the station, in 20 minutes).
To summarize in two words, this place is to be discovered to do good... to your mind and body!
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=> I hope this article has helped you in the preparation of your visit and, if you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate, I'll be happy to get back to you!
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