Once you rent a car in Bankok and set off to explore the city’s tourist places, make sure you stop by Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit. Although it is not much popular among tourists, but it is one of the oldest and important temples in Bangkok. It was built in the Ayutthaya period and contains a Buddha relic. The original name of the temple was Wat Salak. During the reigns from King Rama I to King Rama V, Wat Mahathat was renovated several times and it received a different name each time. It is a place where all royal ceremonies are held and a very important place for worshippers. It also houses the Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University which is the oldest university established to teach Buddhist monks.
Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit
Posted on: 19th February 2016
Visiting Wat Mahathat
Wat Mahathat was built to house relics of Buddha which are now placed in a chedi constructed in the reign of King Rama I. Today, it is one of the most important places to learn meditation and study Buddhism. All the programs are available in Thai language, but few are also available in English. Meditation classes are also available three times a day: 7 am to 10 am, 1 pm to 4 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm. Assistance for meditation is also available in English, but the time can be vary. Every Sunday, the largest amulet market in Bangkok is held adjacent the temple where you will find religious amulets, talismans, charms and traditional medicines. You can buy different types of amulets here; some bring good luck, some bring money, some keep enemies away and some can restore your health. You can select whatever you need.
Useful Information
Wat Mahathat is situated at 3 Maharat Phra That Road, Phra Nakhon District in Bangkok. It is located between the National Museum and the Grand Palace near Sanam Luang Park. You can visit here on any day between 9 pm to 5 pm. Admission is free.
