Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP SIGHTS
WAT SUTHAT
The main attraction at Wat Suthat is Thailand's biggest
wí·hăhn
(main chapel) and the imperious yet serene 8m-high
Phra
Si Sakayamuni
that resides within. The Buddha image is Thailand's largest surviving Sukhothai-period bronze, cast in
the former capital in the 14th century. Today the ashes of Rama VIII (King Ananda Mahidol; r 1935-46) are contained in
the base of the image.
Colourful, if now somewhat faded,
jataka
murals depicting scenes from the Buddha's past lives cover every wall and
pillar. The deep-relief wooden doors are also impressive and were carved by artisans including Rama II (King Phraphut-
thaloetla Naphalai; r 1809-24) himself.
Behind the
wí·hăhn,
the
bòht
(ordination hall) is the largest of its kind in the country. To add to its list of 'largests', Wat
Suthat holds the rank of Rachavoramahavihan, the highest royal temple grade. It maintains a special place in the national
religion because of its association with the Brahman priests who perform important ceremonies, such as the Royal
Ploughing Ceremony in May. These priests also perform religious rites at two Hindu shrines near the wát -
Dhevasathan
Siri Phong.
DON'T MISS…
»
Phra Si Sakayamuni
»
Temple murals
PRACTICALITIES
»
Th Bamrung Meuang
»
admission 20B
»
8.30am-8.30pm
»
klorng boat to Tha Phan Fah
SAO CHING-CHA
MONUMENT
