Exploring Wat Suthat & Its Cool Old-School Vibes in Bangkok
If you’re into culture, art, or just love hidden gems with chill vibes — Wat Suthat Thepwararam should be on your Bangkok bucket list. Right in the heart of the old town (Rattanakosin Island), this stunning temple is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the city. Locals love it. Tourists are amazed by it. And guess what? It's surrounded by some really cool spots that make the whole trip totally worth it.
Viharn of Wat Suthat at Dusk : As evening falls, the majestic viharn glows with serene beauty, reflecting centuries of Thai architectural elegance.
The Ubosot (Ordination Hall) : Located behind the viharn, this beautifully crafted hall houses another important Buddha image and sacred murals.
View from the Viharn Courtyard to the Ubosot : A picturesque path connecting two spiritual hearts of the temple — a favorite photo spot for visitors.
Nantanawan Chinese Garden : Tucked inside the temple grounds, this traditional Chinese-style garden adds an unexpected tranquil corner for visitors to relax.
What’s So Special About Wat Suthat?
First off, it’s a royal temple built back in the day (like... way back in 1807 during King Rama I's time). The architecture is massive and majestic. Inside the main hall — called the Viharn — you’ll find Luang Pho To, a giant Buddha statue brought all the way from Sukhothai. The walls? Covered with detailed murals that are seriously jaw-dropping. Some say they’re the most beautiful in all of Thailand.
Luang Pho To – Phra Si Sakyamuni : This Sukhothai-era Buddha image is the temple’s main highlight, housed inside the grand viharn. Revered for both its history and spiritual presence.
Mural Art at Wat Suthat : Detailed and beautifully preserved, these murals tell Buddhist stories with masterful artistry — a must-see for culture lovers.
Right behind it is the Ubosot, the ordination hall, home to another Buddha statue named Phra Phuttha Trilokachet. What makes this room super unique? There are 80 lifelike statues of monks sitting like they’re listening to a Dhamma talk. It's peaceful, powerful, and surprisingly photogenic.
Inside the Ubosot: Ceremony in Progress : The main Buddha image, monks, and visiting devotees gather in peaceful reverence inside this sacred space.
Oh — and don’t miss the Phra Kalak Fin, a Buddha statue made from old opium tins (yup, for real!) melted down during King Rama III’s reign. History + anti-drug vibes in one statue? That’s next-level.
Phra Kalak Fin – The Buddha Made from Opium Tins : This unique statue, cast from confiscated brass opium containers during King Rama III’s reign, tells a powerful tale of faith and reform.
Snap-Worthy Stops Right Outside
Right in front of the temple is the Giant Swing (yes, it’s huge). Built for an old Brahmin ritual called Triyampawai, this red structure is a Bangkok icon. It used to be part of a ceremony to welcome Hindu gods down from heaven — how wild is that?
The Giant Swing & Wat Suthat Thepwararam : Once part of a Brahmin ritual called Triyampawai, the Swing ceremony welcomed Shiva and Vishnu to earth during the traditional Brahmin New Year. A Buddhist element was later added during King Rama IV’s reign.
Giant Swing at Sunset : Commissioned by King Rama I in 1784, the Swing Ceremony became a royal tradition held every December to January, led by senior officials known as Phra Ya Yuen Chingcha. The ceremony ended in 1934 but the monument remains iconic.
And across the road? You’ll spot the Brahmin Shrines with three old-school buildings for gods Shiva, Vishnu, and Ganesha. It’s like a mini India tucked inside Bangkok, showing how Thai culture blends religions in the coolest way.
Devasathan – The Brahmin Shrines : Strictly regulated and rarely photographed, even from the outside. These shrines honor Hindu deities and preserve ancient traditions.
Around the Hood: Chill Spots & Local Vibes
Apart from the temple and shrines, the area around Wat Suthat is packed with character. You’ll find:
- Wat Thepmontien (a Hindu temple)
- Vishnu Shrine
- Chill public parks
- Cute cafés & street food spots that serve everything from iced coffee to legit Thai snacks
Perfect for a relaxed half-day walk with your camera, good shoes, and maybe a cold drink in hand.
Western-Style Restaurant Opposite the Temple (West Side) : A charming heritage building with beautiful colonial architecture, well-maintained and much loved by foodies.
Rommaninat Park (Former Bangkok Remand Prison) : Once a prison, now a peaceful public park with over 29 rai of green space. The original prison watchtower has been preserved as a reminder of the past.
Why It’s Totally Worth Your Time
Wat Suthat isn’t just “another temple.” It’s a full-on experience — art, history, faith, culture, and food all rolled into one. You’ll leave feeling calm, inspired, and a little more in love with Bangkok. And the best part? It’s budget-friendly and right in the middle of everything.
So yeah, next time you’re temple-hopping or just wanna vibe with some old-school Bangkok beauty — Wat Suthat is the move.
Foreign Tourists Exploring the Temple Grounds : With the Giant Swing rising in the background, Wat Suthat continues to draw curious travelers from around the world.
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Editor in Chief : Nampetch Siramanon
Editor: Pacific Leisure (Thailand)
Content Creator : Mr. Saroj Na Ayutthaya