Could a swamp really be the birthplace of dreams? For Phra Viriyang it was. He envisioned transforming this very spot, right here where Wat Dhammongkol now stands, from a humble swamp into a beacon of Buddhist teachings. Back in 1963, after decades of being a forest monk, Phra Viriyang felt a calling. He’d spent years in quiet reflection, but his heart yearned to share his knowledge. Thus began his journey to Bangkok. He settled in a simple hut. Imagine, the only inhabitants other than him were snakes. This swampy area along Sukhumvit Soi 101 was no accident. It echoed the tradition of temples being near water, symbolizing the sanctity of monk ordination. Wat Dhammongkol emerged slowly. Donations trickled in, 10 or 20 baht at a time, a testament to Phra Viriyang’s unwavering dedication. The temple became a reality, piece by piece. In 1985, the magnificent 95-meter-high chedi we see today was completed. This is no ordinary chedi. It’s a modern tribute to the legendary Bodhgaya Chedi in India, enshrining sacred relics gifted to the Wat Dhammongkol. Phra Viriyang’s dream didn’t stop here. He established temples across Thailand and even Canada, built a hospital in Chiang Mai, and opened numerous free daycare centers. So, when you look at Wat Dhammongkol, you are not just seeing a temple. You’re witnessing the physical manifestation of a dream, a testament to one monk’s unwavering faith and his dedication to spreading compassion.
Garuda Museum
Behold the Garuda, a four-meter sculpture spreading its wings. This is the entrance to Southeast Asia’s one and only Garuda