Wat Pathum Wanaram
Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and let me take you on a journey to the heart of Bangkok, where history and shopping collide in a way that only the vibrant Thai capital can offer!
Nestled amidst the shopaholic’s paradise, squeezed between Siam Paragon and the famous CentralWorld, lies a tranquil oasis known as Wat Pathum Wanaram, or simply Wat Pathum for those in the know.
Back in the day, when King Mongkut, also known as Rama IV, decided to create this sacred haven in 1857, this area was nothing more than endless rice fields reachable only by the known Khlong Saen Saeb.
Talk about a prime shopping location, right?
Today, it stands proudly as a beautiful royal temple of the Thammayut Nikaya order, bearing the regal title of Wat Pathum Wanaram Ratcha Wora Viharn.
But that’s not all, folks!
You’ll find a sala with a fascinating story among the temple’s treasures. It’s like a phoenix rising from the ashes—literally!
This sala was reconstructed from the crematorium of Thailand’s late Princess Mother, a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship adorned with ornate stencils and lacquered sculptures.
In Thai, they call it “Phra men,” a representation of Mount Meru, the heavenly abode of the gods.
Now, here’s the kicker: the House of Mahidol Memorial inside the temple is the final resting place for the ashes of members of the Thai Royal Family, from Queen Savang Vadhana to Prince Mahidol Adulyadej.
It’s a majestic tribute to their legacy.
So, fellow adventurers, I implore you to visit this extraordinary temple, where tradition, history, and shopping entwine in the most enchanting way.
Your journey to Wat Pathum awaits, so make it a date with destiny!
| Location | Pathum Wan District, Bangkok, Thailand |
|---|---|
| Founded By | King Mongkut (Rama IV) |
| Year Founded | 1857 |
| Type | Buddhist Temple (Wat) |
| Dress Code | Modest attire, covering shoulders and knees |
| Notable Feature | Reconstructed sala from Princess Mother’s crematorium |
| Additional Information | Ashes of Thai Royal Family members interred at House of Mahidol Memorial |
What is the dress code for Wat Pathum Wanaram?
Visitors should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees when entering the temple.
Avoid wearing revealing clothing, and consider carrying a scarf or shawl to cover up if necessary.
What is the history of Wat Pathum Wanaram?
Wat Pathum Wanaram was founded in 1857 by King Mongkut (Rama IV) near his Sa Pathum Palace. Initially situated in an area of rice fields, it has since become a revered Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand.
What is the difference between a temple and a wat?
In Thailand, “temple” and “wat” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to Buddhist religious sites.
However, “wat” specifically denotes a Buddhist monastery or temple complex, while “temple” is a more general term for a place of worship, which may or may not be Buddhist.
Address:
- 969 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan, Bangkok
Contact:
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 7:00–21:00
Entrance Fee:
- Free entry
- Book a Tour HERE!
