Peeking out between the canals Khlong Phasi Charoen and Khlong Ratcha Montri, you will find Wat Nimmanoradi. This temple stands on the border of the Phasi Charoen area. Many mistake its location for the Bang Khae district just across the canal.
Wat Nimmanoradi is a third grade royal monastery. It holds deep historical and cultural importance for the people of Bangkok. Let’s step back in time and explore the story of this sacred place.
Originally, this temple was known as Wat Bang Khae. It is believed to have been built around 1807 during the early Rattanakosin period. During the reign of King Rama I, Wat Bang Khae flourished. Sadly, it later fell into disrepair.
Then in 1872, a significant change occurred. Chaeng, a respected Buddhist monk from Wat Rakhang, became the abbot. With him came Khun Tan Wanochakorn also known as Nim and his wife Di. This wealthy couple became patrons of the temple. They funded a complete renovation.
After the renovation, the temple received a new name. It was renamed Wat Nimmanoradi. Nimmanoradi refers to the fifth of six heavenly realms in Buddhist cosmology. The temple received its Wisungkhammasima on May 13, 1879. A Wisungkhammasima marks the boundary of the temple. It is a designation granted by the King.
Later, a new ordination hall was built. It received a new Wisungkhammasima on November 8, 1971. Look closely at the gable of the new ordination hall. You will see the Thai monogram of King Rama IX. It reads “Phor Por Ror”. The monk’s dwelling and sermon hall were constructed from teak wood.
A stūpa houses a holy relic of Lord Buddha. It was built in 1974. In 1980, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn solemnized the raising of Chatra. Chatra is a tiered umbrella. Inside the ordination hall stands the principal Buddha image. It is in the Māravijaya posture. This image is made of mixed brass and gilded lacquering. It is named Luang Pho Ket Champa Si. The Wat Nimmanoradi also features idols of Chinese gods. Among them are Guanyin and Kātyāyana.
In the past, the canals around Wat Nimmanoradi bustled with activity. A vibrant floating market thrived here. Merchants from Ban Phaeo, Samut Sakhon, and Damnoen Saduak rowed their boats to trade. But the construction of Petchkasem Road changed everything. The market eventually moved to land. It became the Bang Khae Market. The Phasi Charoen District Office once tried to revive the floating market. It was called Wat Nimmanoradee Floating Market. Sadly, it closed after a short time.
Today, Wat Nimmanoradi stands as a testament to time. Its story reflects faith, patronage, and community change. As we conclude our visit, remember the layers of history within these walls. The canals once teemed with life. They whisper tales of a bygone era. Wat Nimmanoradi remains a serene reminder of Bangkok’s rich cultural heritage.