Remember Princess Srinagarindra? She is King Rama VIII and King Rama IX’s mother. Welcome to Wat Anongkharam Worawihan also known as the Temple of the Royal Grandmother. She was born near here.
Wat Anongkharam Worawihan is a second grade royal temple. It stands as a testament to Bangkok’s rich history. It reflects its cultural diversity. Dame Noi founded this temple. She was the wife of Somdet Chao Phraya Borom Maha Phichai Yat.
The temple was built in 1850. Initially, it was called Wat Noi Khamthaem. King Rama IV later renamed it Wat Anongkharam. This translates to “temple of lady.” It stands beside Wat Phichai Yat. Dame Noi’s husband built that one.
Look closely at the sanctuary. It was built in the Thai-styled Rama I period. Inside, you’ll find the principal Buddha image. It’s covered in gold leaf and bronze. This is the Phra Chunlanak image. It is in the Maravijaya attitude. The style is Sukhothai. This image came from Sukhothai province in 1949.
Admire the monk’s dwellings. They feature beautiful wooden works. Wat Anongkharam also holds many important Buddha images. You can also view the collections of Somdet Phra Phutthachan Phutthamahathera’s belongings. He was a revered monk named Nuam. His things are displayed in a monk’s dwelling. These are open to the public on Buddhist Lent Day and New Year’s Day.
Did you notice the community around Wat Anongkharam? It is ancient and historically significant. It once housed warehouses and factories. Chinese and Indian businesses owned these. They produced leather, salt, sugar and fish sauce. They even made coal.
This area reflects diverse beliefs and cultures. Buddhist temples, Chinese joss houses and masjids all coexist here. Nowadays, most businesses have moved or closed. But shophouses and antique arched entrances remain. You can still see monasteries and wooden houses here.
Wat Anongkharam also houses the Bangkok Local Museum. It’s located in the Khlong San District. The Fine Arts Department registered the temple as a national historic monument in 1977.
Before we move on, consider the past. Imagine the bustling activity of this diverse community. Picture the warehouses filled with goods. Feel the sense of history that surrounds Wat Anongkharam Worawihan.