Wat Photiwihan is a Thai Buddhist temple at Kampung Jambu, about 12 kilometres west of Kota Bharu, home to a 40-metre reclining Buddha that ranks among the largest in Southeast Asia. The statue is an impressive piece of work — the serene face above the length of the gilded body is visible from the road long before you reach the entrance.
The temple complex includes a main prayer hall, smaller shrines, and gardens. The atmosphere is contemplative and the monks are welcoming. It serves as a vivid reminder that Kelantan has a significant Thai-Buddhist minority — some 5 percent of the population — whose presence in this predominantly Muslim state goes back many centuries. Take a taxi from Kota Bharu; the journey takes about 20 minutes.