Halfway between a bucolic stroll and a spiritual journey, this still little-known place checks all the boxes for a perfect getaway day trip on a sunny day. Whether you're a fan of unusual spots, passionate about distant cultures, or just seeking tranquility, the Moissy-Cramayel pagoda, also known as the Wat Thammapathip pagoda, promises a timeless pause, far from the Parisian hustle and bustle.
A Fascinating Second Life
Hidden behind a discreet wall, in the heart of Moissy-Cramayel , lies this totally unique place. Here, there are no crowds or honking cars, just paths lined with hundreds of golden Buddhas, a soothing silence, and a nearly surreal atmosphere. The story of this Île-de-France monument is quite unusual. Once upon a time, it...it's about the Château de Lugny, a stunning building from the 19th century nestled in a wooded park spanning several hectares.
© Jagoda Bartus / Le Bonbon
But everything changed in the year 2000, not when the end of the world arrived as predicted by Notre-Dame de Paris, but when the Thai International Buddhist Association in France bought the property, transformed it into a temple, and changed its name. Since then, the site has been inhabited by monks and open to visitors, offering a unique journey at the crossroads of French architecture and Asian spirituality.
A total change of scenery at your fingertips
Today, Wat Thammapathip — often nicknamed “Thailand on the Seine” — charms visitors with both its atmosphere and its details. Because while its rooms...The contemplation areas are beautiful and welcoming to everyone; it’s in the park where the true richness of the place lies: over 400 Buddha statues, sometimes crafted from recycled materials, aligned with an almost hypnotic precision.
© Jagoda Bartus / Le Bonbon
Offerings, incense, flowers… everything encourages you to slow down and observe these original works while taking a stroll in this multi-hectare garden. A meandering journey sprinkled with spiritual messages here and there, inviting you to meditation. And the icing on the cake is that this enchanting place is easily accessible from Paris by RER, and on top of that, the entry is 100% free!
Address: Château de Lugny, 243 Rue des Marronniers, 77550 Moissy-Cramayel, France