Wat Suthat is the first royal temple of Thailand of its kind. The construction of the temple was started in 1807 on the orders of Rama I and the work of the temple continued even in the reign of Rama II. In 1847, the temple was finally completed in the reign of Rama III. In the chaos of Bangkok, the Wat Suthat is a haven of peace. This temple does not get too many visitors and you will be able to see the temple virtually alone. Wat Suthat is located in the old part of Bangkok and in front of the city’s town hall. It is one of the most important and impressive temples in Thailand and you must not miss to visit it.
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing
Posted on: 19th February 2016
A Visit to Wat Suthat
The courtyard of the temple is very beautiful and houses a statue of Buddha from the fifteenth century. Here, you can also admire the beautiful and interesting murals which decorate the pillars and walls. These murals are the largest in Thailand and depict the history of the country and 24 previous lives of Buddha which are called “Jataka Tales”. Underneath the statue of Buddha, ashes of the King Rama VIII are buried. On your visit to the temple, you can also see a Giant Swing called Sao Ching-Cha which is located between the Wat Suthat and town hall. This Giant Swing is almost 21 meters high and was built in 1784 which was restored in 1959 and recently between 2005 and 2006.
Practical Information
Wat Suthat is located at the Muang Road and it opens daily from 9 am to 9 pm. Like other wats in Thailand, you must dress appropriately; do not wear short or transparent clothes. Also, you may have to remove your shoes many times.