Have you ever wondered why Wat Sitaram is called the “pigsty temple”? Right here, in the heart of Bangkok, stands this fascinating Buddhist temple, a unique blend of Thai and Chinese architecture. You see, Wat Sitaram wasn’t always known by this elegant name. Once, it was called Wat Khok Mu, which translates to “pigsty temple.” Legend tells us that during the reign of King Rama II, a Mon individual named Chao Krom Yim persuaded the Chinese pig farmers in the area to build a temple. They did, and thus Wat Khok Mu was born. Later on, the temple was renamed Wat Sitaram by the supreme patriarch at the time. The name comes from a combination of Pali words: “Yim,” the temple founder’s name, and “aram,” meaning temple or monastery. The ordination hall, or ubosot, of Wat Sitaram has a remarkable Chinese-inspired rooftop covered with traditional Thai tiles. The gables are adorned with floral stucco designs and Chinese glazed ceramics, a beautiful testament to the unique fusion of cultures that this temple represents.
Garuda Museum
Behold the Garuda, a four-meter sculpture spreading its wings. This is the entrance to Southeast Asia’s one and only Garuda