Apart from the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Pho, or some other well known attractions, Bangkok still has so many other interesting places that are often overlooked by tourists.
Wat Suthat and the Great Swing
Wat Suthat or its full name Wat Suthat Thep Wararam Ratcha-Woramahawiharn is a royal temple of the first grade, one of ten such temples in Bangkok (there are 23 in Thailand). The temple was built by King Rama I in 1807 (B.E. 2350) to shelter the 13th Century gold Buddha image transported by boat from Sukhotai, but was finally completed during King Rama III’s reign (1824-51).
Iconic picture of wat Suthat
Wat Suthat or better known for the towering red Giant Swing that stands at its entrance is one of the oldest, largest and most impressive temples in Bangkok. It features an elegant chapel with beautiful roofline, huge golden Buddha image, magnificent mural paintings, exquisite hand-carved teakwood door panels and the giant swing out front.
The main “wiharn” (main hall) of Wat Suthat is one of Bangkok’s tallest due to the need to house a huge and beautiful 13th-century Phra Si Sakayamuni, a gold Buddha image of 8 metres (25-foot) tall. The cloisters surrounding the “wiharn” also contain more than 150 Buddha images along the outer wall.
Highlight in temple should not miss
The mural paintings inside were commissioned in part by King Rama II but were probably created and completed towards the end of King Rama III’s reign, around 1850. The wall paintings depict the 24 previous lives of the Buddha and the columns are painted with scenes of the early history of Bangkok.
The doors in the middle of each of the four walls are painted and gilded with quite colorful scenes from the Ramakien. The column closest to the door on the right depicts scenes of the early westerners who came to Siam. The splendid wall paintings underwent restoration in the late 1980s.
The courtyard between the Buddha gallery and the “wiharn” stand many Chinese pagodas, bronze horses and figures of Chinese soldiers. The statues are believed to have been shipped from China as ballast in rice boats during the reign of King Rama I.
The Great Swing
The Buddhist temple is closely associated with Hinduism, and especially the Hindu Brahman priests who officiate at important state ceremonies. This area is the home of the Brahmin priests who oversee royal rituals such as the ploughing ceremony held at the traditional beginning of the cultivated season.
However, Wat Suthat is still a very important temple to the Thais. In front of the temple is the famous Giant Swing, painted red with a height of 21.15 metres and was used as ceremonial swing, a Hindu symbol that became Bangkok’s civic emblem for a time.
Who built Giant swing and function ?
The giant swing was built by King Rama I in 1784, only two years after the establishment of Bangkok as the new capital in 1782. The Great Swing was used to celebrate and thank Shiva for a bountiful rice harvest and to ask for the god’s blessing on the next. Teams of men would ride the swing on the arch as high as 82 feet in the air, trying to grab a bag of silver coins with their teeth. The ceremony was discontinued in 1932 after several fatal accidents, but the thanksgiving festival is still celebrated in mid-December after the rice harvest.
When the Giant swing was built ?
No information was found on how high the original swing was, but over a hundred years later the old swing was decaying and was replaced with a new one made of teak in 1920 in the reign of King Rama VI.
It was twice renovated after that and was again replaced with one made of teak in 2006, with a height of 21.15 metres from the base to the top, hence the name “Giant Swing”.
In 2005, Wat Suthat and the Great Swing was submitted to UNESCO for consideration as a future World Heritage Site. This temple is located at Bamrungmuang Road, centre of Bangkok Metropolitan , not too far from the Grand Royal Palace,
Admission Fee
Visitors have to pay an entrance fee of Baht 20 (USD 0.63) at the booth just inside the north gate.
The temple is open between 8.30 am to 9.00 pm.
Wat Trimit Wittayaram, Bangkok Temple – The Temple of the Golden Buddha
The Bangkok temple is officially named Wat Traimit Wittayaram Worawiharn, a royal monastery of the secondary classification of the Worawiharn type. It is also known as “The Temple of the Golden Buddha” which enshrines the gigantic solid gold Buddha image named Phra Buddha Maha Suwan Patimakon in the subduing Mara position, the typical artistic style of the days when Sukhothai was the capital of Thailand.
Although the temple itself is less significance in comparison to other temples in Bangkok with its rather modest temple architecture, it is the Golden Buddha inside that attracts visitors who come to pay respect to the image as well as to appreciate this invaluable masterwork of Thai cultural heritage.
Guinness book record
Phra Buddha Maha Suwan Patimakorn is the one and only gold Buddha image in Thailand that was recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records in 1991 as the world’s largest gold Buddha image. It is regarded as an invaluable part of the cultural heritage related to Buddhism and the Thai nation.
This Bangkok temple is well known for its 3-metre tall, 5.5 tons solid gold Buddha image and it measures 3.10 metres across the lap from knee to knee. The Golden Buddha was cast sometime in the 13th century and is an excellent example of the gracious Sukhothai style that is still very much in favor to this day.
It can be disassembled into nine pieces. It was estimated that the gold Buddha was built in the Sukhothai period (1238-1438), but there are no written records of its origin. Originally the gold image was covered with plaster to conceal it from the invading Burmese.
How to get there and Fee
Location
Near Hualampong Railway Station, towards Chinatown’s Yaowarat Road.
Admission Fee: Entrance to see the Golden Buddha is Baht 10.
The museum costs an additional Baht 100.
The Bangkok temple is open during 8 am to 5 pm everyday, but the museum is closed on Mondays.
When exploring these hidden gems in Bangkok, it’s a good idea to check their opening hours and any specific visiting guidelines, as some of these places may have limited operating hours or may be closed on certain days. Additionally, consider using local transportation options like tuk-tuks, river ferries, or even walking to fully immerse yourself in the local experience.
Bangkok’s Canals (Klongs)
Bangkok’s canals, known as “klongs,” are a fascinating aspect of the city’s history and culture. These waterways were once the primary mode of transportation in the city, earning Bangkok its nickname, the “Venice of the East.” While many of the canals have been filled in or replaced with roads over the years, some still exist and offer unique experiences for visitors.
Several companies and independent operators offer guided boat tours of the klongs. These tours provide insight into local life and take you through residential areas, past traditional stilt houses, and alongside bustling markets. While exploring the klongs, you may come across small canal side markets where vendors sell a variety of goods, from fresh seafood to handicrafts.
Hidden canal lead to business district
Khlong Saen Saeb runs through the heart of Bangkok and is one of the most significant remaining canals in the city. You can take a water taxi along this canal, providing a scenic and convenient way to navigate the city. The Khlong Saen Saeb water taxis and express boats provide access to many important areas of Bangkok, including popular tourist destinations like Pratunam, Siam Square, and The Platinum Fashion Mall.
They also connect to other transportation hubs like the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway system. While using Khlong Saen Saeb for transportation, you’ll have the opportunity to observe everyday life along the canal, including traditional Thai houses, street vendors, and local communities. It can be a unique and scenic way to experience Bangkok.
It’s important to note that while Khlong Saen Saeb is a convenient and authentic mode of transportation, the canal can sometimes have issues with pollution and water quality. Additionally, the boats can get crowded during peak hours.
Thonburi, on the west side of the Chao Phraya River, has several canals that are less developed than those on the eastern side. You can take a long-tail boat ride to explore these canals and visit small temples along the way.
Bang Krachao (Green Lung of Bangkok)
Bang Krachao, often referred to as the “Green Lung of Bangkok,” is an oasis of greenery and tranquility located just across the Chao Phraya River from the bustling heart of Bangkok. It is a contrast to the city’s urban landscape, offering a peaceful and natural environment that makes it a popular escape for both locals and tourists.
Bang Krachao is characterized by its abundant greenery, including mangrove forests, tropical gardens, and tree-lined roads. The area is known for its pristine natural beauty. One of the best ways to explore Bang Krachao is by renting a bicycle. The area has well-maintained bike paths that wind through the park, allowing visitors to explore the landscape at a leisurely pace.
The quiet and natural environment of Bang Krachao makes it an ideal place for relaxation. You can find numerous spots to sit and enjoy the tranquility, making it a perfect escape from the noise and pollution of the city. If you enjoy water activities, consider kayaking along the canals of Bang Krachao.
It’s a unique way to explore the area and get close to nature. You can explore the mangrove forests along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, which are home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species.
Activities and who should visit
To get to Bang Krachao, you can take a short ferry ride from Bangkok’s Klong Toey Pier. Once you arrive, you’ll find various rental shops offering bicycles and maps to help you navigate the area. It’s recommended to visit on weekends or holidays when the floating market and other attractions are in full swing. Bang Krachao is an excellent destination for nature lovers, cyclists, and anyone looking to experience a different side of Bangkok.
Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market
Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market is a charming and relatively lesser-known floating market located on the outskirts of Bangkok. It’s known for its authentic and less touristy atmosphere, making it a great place to experience traditional Thai culture, sample local food, and enjoy a peaceful market setting.
It provides an opportunity to experience a genuine Thai floating market. You’ll find a predominantly local crowd, and the market retains its traditional ambiance.
The market is famous for its delicious food offerings. You can sample a wide variety of Thai dishes, from noodles and seafood to fresh tropical fruits and snacks. Don’t miss trying some of the regional specialties. Aside from prepared foods, you can find stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. It’s a great place to buy fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
You’ll also find stalls selling handicrafts, clothing, and traditional Thai products. This is a good place to pick up souvenirs that are more unique and less mass-produced than what you might find in touristy markets.
The market is located along the canals of Bangkok, and you can take a short boat ride to explore the area. The scenic canals and lush greenery create a tranquil and picturesque environment. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market is primarily a weekend market, so it’s best to visit on Saturdays and Sundays. It’s advisable to arrive in the morning to experience the market at its liveliest.
There’s a small entry fee for foreigners, which is used to maintain and preserve the market’s authenticity and cleanliness.
Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market is a hidden gem in Bangkok that offers a more traditional and less commercial experience compared to some of the more touristy floating markets. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Thai culture and enjoy delicious local cuisine.
When exploring these hidden gems in Bangkok, it’s a good idea to check their opening hours and any specific visiting guidelines, as some of these places may have limited operating hours or may be closed on certain days. Additionally, consider using local transportation options like tuk-tuks, river ferries, or even walking to fully immerse yourself in the local experience.
