Did Prince Chesda Bodin foresee his royal destiny when he camped at Wat Ratcha-orasaram Ratchaworawihan? Wat Ratcha-orasaram Ratchaworawihan, also known as Wat Ratchaorot, stands as a testament to a royal promise. It’s a first-class royal monastery in Bangkok, Thailand. It’s located in the Chom Thong District. Legend whispers of Prince Chesda Bodin’s journey to the western border in 1820. He was tasked with defending against the Burmese army. On his way, he stopped at Wat Chom Thong, the former name of Wat Ratcha-orasaram Ratchaworawihan. The abbot performed a ceremony to bless the warriors. The prince vowed to renovate the temple if he returned victorious. The Burmese threat never materialized. Yet, Prince Chesda Bodin, true to his word, ordered the temple’s renovation. He renamed it Wat Ratchaorat, meaning “the royal son,” to honor his father, King Phutthaloetla Naphalai (Rama II). Years later, he ascended the throne as King Nangklao (Rama III). He elevated the temple to its royal status. He gave it its full name, Wat Ratcha-orasaram Ratchaworawihan. King Nangklao’s love for Chinese architecture is reflected in the temple’s design. This unique blend sets Wat Ratcha-orasaram Ratchaworawihan apart. Inside the ordination hall, you’ll find the magnificent Phra Buddha Arnunthakhun Ardulyarnbophit. This principal Buddha image sits under a nine-tiered parasol. Such a parasol is usually found in temples where royal ashes are kept. The temple also houses a 20-meter-long reclining Buddha, Phraphutthasiyard. Marble plates inscribed with traditional medicine and massage techniques line the walls around it. Another treasure is the standing Buddha, Phra Si Sanphet. It’s reminiscent of a similar statue from the ancient Ayutthaya Kingdom. Wat Ratcha-orasaram Ratchaworawihan’s unique architecture and royal history make it a must-see in Bangkok.
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Behold the Garuda, a four-meter sculpture spreading its wings. This is the entrance to Southeast Asia’s one and only Garuda