Intrigued by the blend of cultures? Then you’ve arrived at Wat Sunthon Thammathan. This civil temple offers a fascinating story. It stands in Bangkok’s Pom Prap Sattru Phai district.
Once upon a time, this temple was known by different names. Some called it Wat Khae. That means “nearby temple” in the southern dialect. Others knew it as Wat Sanam Krabue. This was because of its location in the Sanam Krabue sub-district.
King Rama III had a vision for this area. He wanted to settle Thai and Muslim people there. These people migrated from the south. Legend says Phraya Cha Saenyakon made a discovery. He found a Buddha image in the Bang Kholaem sub-district. This image was submerged in water. Filled with devotion, he dedicated his house to enshrine the statue. Later, the house became a temple. Phraya Sombat Yaphiban also contributed. He donated a house and land to expand the temple.
King Rama IV’s reign brought further transformation to Wat Sunthon Thammathan. Prachao Borommawongthoe Krommamuen Sunthon Thipbodi helped renovate the temple. He was King Rama III’s son. Phra Thamma Thanachan also contributed. He was the abbot of Wat Saket Woramahawihan. Together, they renovated the temple.
The temple received a new name to honor these benefactors. It became Wat Sunthon Thammathan. The name combines the names of the two donors.
Look around at the Ubosot. It’s the ordination hall. Notice the Thai architectural style. Walls surround the hall. A three-tiered roof rises above. Carved, gilded, and lacquered windows and doors add to the beauty.
Wat Sunthon Thammathan also honors a Thai cinema star. His name was Mitr Chaibancha. He grew up near here in the Nang Loeng district. Every October 8, faithful gather to honor his memory.
The area around Wat Sunthon Thammathan is also worth exploring. You can discover old wooden houses. One is a former cinema. Local markets bustle with activity. Narrow alleys wind through the neighborhood. Buddhists and Muslims have lived peacefully here for decades. The Ubosot dominates the surroundings.
The temple also has a small Viharn. It was built about fifty years ago. Inside is Luang Po Barami. This is the monastery’s most revered statue. Wat Sunthon Thammathan is more than just a temple. It reflects Bangkok’s diverse history. The temple’s story is woven into the community’s fabric. Take a moment to appreciate its unique blend of cultures and traditions.