Sala (architecture)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A Sala (Thai: ศาลา) is an open pavilion, used as a meeting place and to protect people from sun and rain. Most are open on all four sides. They are usually found in Buddhist temple areas, or Wats, although they can also be located in other places.

In Thailand they have many purposes. In rural areas travelers can use them to rest and sleep. These ones are called Sala Asai. Salas even exist on some bus stops. If they are on a river bank or canal as a landing-place for ships they are called Sala Nam ("water pavilion").

Some temples have large Salas where laity can hear sermons or receive religious instructions. These are called Sala Kan Parian (pavilion, where monks learn for the Parian examination).