“Eyes closed Buddha” amulets surround this sacred place. We are standing before Wat Chai Chimphli. It is a temple with a story etched in every corner. Wat Chai Chimphli offers a serene escape. It is tucked away from Bangkok’s bustling streets.
Wat Chai Chimphli is also known as Wat Pradu Chimphli. This temple dates back to the Rattanakosin period. King Nangklao or Rama III oversaw its construction.
Originally, the temple was simply called “Wat Chimphli”. This name came from the many cotton trees in the area. “Chimphli” is the Thai word for cotton tree. Locals also knew it as “Wat Pradu Nai”. It means inner Wat Pradu. This was in comparison to the nearby Wat Pranu Nok. That means outer Wat Pradu.
Phrasi Pipat Rachakosa completed Wat Chai Chimphli. He was the project director. It took eight years to build. When finished, it was considered the most beautiful civilian temple of its time. Especially, the ordination hall stood out. The principal Sukhothai Buddha image is named Luang Pho Sukothai Phraphuttha Samphanthamunee. The pagoda showcases a Mon style.
Luang Pu Toh significantly shaped Wat Chai Chimphli. He was the abbot from the 1910s to the 1980s. Luang Pu Toh was respected by devotees including King Bhumibol Adulyadej or Rama IX. He developed the temple in many ways.
Luang Pu Toh created the famous Buddha amulets called “Phra Pid Ta”. They are “eyes closed Buddha” amulets. These amulets supposedly bring luck and protection. Legend says owning a Luang Pu Toh amulet protects against poverty.
The temple sits on the rim of Khlong Bangkok Yai. This is where the Phasi Charoen and Bangkok Yai canals meet. Its location along the Khlong makes it a special place.
Today, Wat Chai Chimphli is not widely known among tourists. However, it is a temple worth seeing. The sunset views here are particularly beautiful. Spirit houses dot the grounds of Wat Chai Chimphli. They add to its mystical charm. Take a moment to appreciate the temple’s history. Note its beautiful architecture. Feel the peaceful atmosphere of Wat Chai Chimphli.