Wat Nuan Chan

Hidden within Bangkok’s bustling heart lies Wat Nuan Chan. It’s a tranquil haven, steeped in history. Wat Nuan Chan was once known as Wat Makok Nai, meaning “Inside Bangkok canal temple”. It was paired with Wat Makok Nok, the “Outside Bangkok canal temple”, which we now know as the iconic Wat Arun. Imagine these two temples, mirroring each other across the canal, during the Ayutthaya Kingdom era. Wat Nuan Chan’s history is a tapestry woven with threads of royalty and devotion. It was Chao Khun Phra Ratchaphan (Nuan), wife of Chao Phraya Akkhamahasena (Bunnag) and sister of Queen Amarindra, who breathed new life into the then-deserted Wat Makok Nai. She entrusted its restoration to her son, Chao Phraya Phra khlang (Dit Bunnag), in the year 2379 BE (1836 AD), after he completed the renovation of Wat Prayurawongsawat. Later, King Rama V, also known as King Chulalongkorn, renamed the temple Wat Nuan Chan to honor Chao Khun Phra Ratchaphan (Nuan). The temple has seen the touch of many hands throughout the years, each contributing to its preservation. Chao Phraya Surawongwaiwat (Worn Bunnaak) and Chao Phraya Passakorawong (Phon Bunnag) oversaw further restorations. Phra Sassananurak (Tim Rattanachoot) continued this legacy of care, ensuring Wat Nuan Chan remains a vibrant testament to faith and history. Today, Wat Nuan Chan stands as the 3rd ranked temple in Thailand, a testament to its enduring significance. It stands on the western bank of the Khlong Bangkok Yai, opposite Wat Praduchimplee and Wat Nuan Noradit School. Its story, echoing through time, invites you to explore its serene grounds.