“Pa Cha Wat Don” or the graveyards of Don Temple, as locals call it. This is the Teochew Cemetery. It is a hidden gem in Bangkok. Most Bangkokians don’t even know it exists.
Founded in 1899, the Teochew Cemetery offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Chinese immigrants. The Teochew Association of Thailand opened it. It served as a final resting place for those who left China. They sought new opportunities in Southeast Asia. Teochew refers to Chinese people from Guangdong province. They speak the Teochew dialect.
Imagine this cemetery doubling as a park. It is also a fitness center and a hangout spot. Locals come here to exercise. They also relax amidst the graves. It is a unique blend of life and death.
The Teochew Cemetery is managed by three organizations. These are the Tio Chew Association of Thailand, the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, and the Hainan Dan Family Association. In 1996, renovations began to transform the derelict site. A part of the cemetery became a public park.
Some believe that the Teochew Cemetery is haunted. This adds to its mystique. The tombstones stand as silent witnesses. They guard the stories of those who rest here.
Inside the Teochew Cemetery the graves are numbered consecutively. This makes it easy to find a specific one. The graves are mostly identical. A few stand out from the rest.
The Teochew Cemetery offers a different experience. It is away from the tourist crowds of Bangkok. Here you can immerse yourself in a local atmosphere. It is a world away from Sukhumvit and Khao San Road. This cemetery offers a tranquil escape.
The Teochew Cemetery is easily accessible. It is a short walk from Surasak BTS station. You can find it hidden away. It is near local shophouses and condos. Many residents can see the cemetery from their homes.
While some graves show neglect, there are efforts to restore the graveyard. Volunteers are working hard. They want to bring it back to a respectable condition.
The Teochew Cemetery is a place of contrasts. It is a cemetery, a park, and a fitness center. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Teochew people. They have found their final resting place here in Bangkok.