An Iconic Temple on Thonburi
Wat Prayoon, or Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan, is a 19th-century Buddhist temple near the Memorial Bridge in Bangkok’s Thonburi district. The temple grounds consist of a tranquil pond with a duplicate mountain, surrounded by miniature shrines and spirit houses, developing a serene environment for site visitors. In 2013, Wat Prayoon received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation, recognizing its historical and cultural importance.
The temple’s large white chedi is an outstanding structure that shines beneath the sunlight. Built in a traditional Thai style, it’s far surrounded by smaller stupas and delicate carvings that add to its splendour. The chedi stands as a symbol of religion and history, cautiously restored over time to maintain its unique allure. Visitors can walk around its base, admiring the nice information and feeling the energy of this sacred region.
Inside one of the temples, the artwork is a breathtaking showcase of Thai Buddhist artistry. The murals tell stories from the Buddha’s life and Jataka tales, painted with incredible detail and rich colours. At the centre stands the grand Buddha statue, Phra Buddha Vishnu Prophet, a golden figure crafted by Japanese artisans in 1828. The walls and ceiling are decorated with a mix of Thai and Chinese artistic styles, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
The detailed paintings and bright colours make the stories come to life, helping visitors feel connected to the lessons and legends of Buddhism. Beautiful flowers, heavenly beings, and magical creatures are carefully painted along the walls and ceilings, making the temple look even more special and enchanting.
The gentle glow of candles and the light scent of incense make the temple feel calm and peaceful, helping people focus on their prayers and thoughts. Every corner of the space reflects ancient traditions, showing the rich history and beautiful artwork that have shaped this sacred place over the years.
Another fascinating part of the temple is its turtle mountain and pond, a peaceful spot inside the temple grounds. This man-made hill, surrounded by calm water, is home to many turtles, which represent long life and wisdom in the Buddhist tradition.
Small spirit houses and shrines are placed throughout the rocky landscape, dedicated to local guardian spirits. Visitors often feed the turtles or light incense at the shrines, combining Thai folklore with Buddhist traditions in a peaceful setting. The gentle ripples in the pond reflect the lush greenery and beautifully decorated temple buildings, creating a magical scene where nature and spirituality come together in harmony.
The turtles, seen as sacred in Buddhism, symbolize patience and wisdom. Sometimes, monks and worshippers chant prayers nearby, making the place feel even more peaceful and spiritual. This area is a quiet escape from the busy city, giving visitors a chance to relax, reflect, and experience the temple’s deep cultural meaning.
To finish, Wat Prayoon’s cultural significance extends past its architecture and artwork to the annual religious festivals held inside its grounds. The temple plays a crucial function in Buddhist celebrations inclusive of Makha Bucha and Visakha Bucha, in which devotees accumulate to provide prayers.
These occasions deliver the community collectively, keeping Thailand’s deep religious traditions whilst welcoming traffic to experience Buddhist customs firsthand. Wat Prayoon is not just a historic monument, but a living testament to religion, artistry, and cultural history.
How to get to Wat Prayoon?
By Boat (Recommended)
Take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin Station (S6) on the Silom Line. Walk to Sathorn Pier and board the Chao Phraya Express Boat and get off at Memorial Bridge Pier (Saphan Phut Pier). From the pier, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the temple.
By MRT (Subway)
Take the MRT Blue Line to Sanam Chai Station. Exit towards Museum Siam and walk across Memorial Bridge. The temple is about a 10-minute walk from the station.
Wat Prayoon Info
Location: Thonburi
Address: 24 Prajadhipok Rd, Wat Kanlaya, Thon Buri, Bangkok 10600
Opening hours: 7 am – 7 pm
Wat Prayoon Map
