Long before you is Wat Kaeo Fa Chulamanee. It stands as a testament to Bangkok’s rich Buddhist heritage. This temple offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle. Wat Kaeo Fa Chulamanee has a captivating history.
Originally named Wat Bang Sue it was also known as Wat Kaew Fah Bon. This means “upper Kaew Fah temple”. This name distinguished it from Wat Kaew Jam Fah. Wat Kaew Jam Fah was the “lower Kaew Fah temple”. These names reflected their locations along the Chao Phraya River.
Historical records suggest Wat Kaeo Fa Chulamanee was built around 1757. This was towards the end of the Ayutthaya period. Exact details of its founding remain unknown. A letter from a former abbot in 1954 provides the earliest evidence of its existence.
The temple complex covers 5.2 acres. A crematorium sits in the central area. Monks’ dwellings and the ubosot are on the right. The ubosot is the ordination hall. Inside, murals depict the Jataka tales. These murals tell stories of the Buddha’s past lives.
Inside the vihara find Luang Pho Siri Aisawan. Locals simply call him Luang Pho Siri. He is the principal Buddha image. Wat Kaeo Fa Chulamanee also houses Thao Wessuwan and Rahu images. You can find them outside the vihara and ubosot.
Originally the ubosot stood close to the Khlong Bang Sue canal. Soil erosion threatened the chapel and the Chulamanee pagoda. King Chulalongkorn Rama V ordered the ubosot moved to its present location.
Wat Kaeo Fa Chulamanee is located near the Kiak Kai pier and the parliament house. It sits at the beginning of Thahan Road. This temple offers not only a place of worship. It provides a glimpse into Thailand’s past. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry and devotion that shaped this sacred space. May the peace of Wat Kaeo Fa Chulamanee stay with you long after you leave.