The Stupas and prangs are physically different because they have different architectural origins. The stupa found in Thailand today had its origin in India. It has a bell-shaped central body with a tapering spire. On the other hand the prang found in Thai temples today is derived from the Khmer tower, which resembles a corn cob. However the thai prang was adai apted to suit local ideals. Thai prangs are slender in appearance with decorative elements such as monkey bearers or garuda layers. Besides the Garuda,there is a multi-pronged finial or a nopasul on the top of the prang, which represents the weapon of Shiva, a Hindu god