Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The wát also holds the rank of Rachavoramahavihan, the highest royal-temple grade;
the ashes of Rama VIII (King Ananda Mahidol; r 1935-46), the current king's deceased
older brother, are contained in the base of the main Buddha image in the
wí·hăhn
.
TRANSPORT TIPS
Despite the abundance of attractions, Ko Ratanakosin and Banglamphu are still isolated from the more modern
forms of public transport. The Chao Phraya Express Boat is probably the most efficient way of reaching the area,
and the
klorng
(canal; also spelt
khlong
) taxi along Khlong Saen Saeb to eastern Banglamphu is another conveni-
ent option if you're coming from the Siam Sq or Sukhumvit areas. The closest BTS station is Ratchathewi.
Ban Baat
NEIGHBOURHOOD
(Monk's Bowl Village; Soi Ban Baat; 8am-5pm; klorng boat to Tha Phan Fah)
This is the only
surviving village established by Rama I to make the
bàht
(rounded bowls) that the monks
carry to receive food alms from faithful Buddhists every morning. Today the average
monk relies on a bowl mass-produced in China, but the traditional technique survives in
Ban Baat thanks to patronage by tourists.
About half a dozen families still hammer the bowls together from eight separate pieces
of steel representing, they say, the eight spokes of the Wheel of Dharma (which symbolise
Buddhism's Eightfold Path). The joints are fused in a wood fire with bits of copper, and
the bowl is polished and coated with several layers of black lacquer. A typical output is
one bowl per day. If you purchase a bowl, the craftsperson will show you the equipment
and process used.
Wat Ratchanatdaram
BUDDHIST TEMPLE
(Th Mahachai; 8am-5pm; klorng boat to Tha Phan Fah)
Wat Ratchanatdaram dates from
the mid-19th century and in addition to Loha Prasat, the metallic, castlelike monastery, is
home to a well-known market selling Buddhist
prá pim
(magical charm amulets) in all
sizes, shapes and styles.
Sao Ching-Cha
MONUMENT
