Wat Thong Thammachat

Wat Thong Tammachat temple.

 
Not far from the entrance to the Wang Lee Mansion along Chiang Mai Road is the small temple of Wat Thong Thammachat. The temple's name means 'golden nature' in Thai, and the temple stands in a small wooded park, which is now unusual for Bangkok temples.

The ubosot with a large chedi in the foreground.

The temple dates from the Ayuthaya period, before Bangkok was the capital of Siam. Its exact founding date is unknown. It was restored by King Rama I, who founded Bangkok, then restored again by King Rama III. The last major renovation was done by King Rama VI in 1915.

A small tower with a bronze Buddha near the monks quarters.

The ubosot (ordination hall) reflects the intricate decorations of the Ayuthaya style, with a curved base and fanciful roof brackets. The ubosot sits in a beautifully landscaped courtyard. The front entrance to the walled court is flanked by two open pavilions.

There is a wooded area in front of the temple, while to the south are several monks' quarters in many different styles. The bell tower is roughly in the center of the side facing the woods.

Outside the entrance to the temple is yet another patch of trees with a large old fashioned red meeting hall behind. Next to the hall is a Boh tree bought from Buddha's place of enlightenment in India.

Getting There

The entrance to Wat Thong Thammachat is on Chiang Mai road near the entrance to the Wang Lee Mansion. See our map of Klong San for more information.