The longest mural painting at Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram

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🎨 Review of Murals at Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaew) and How to Get There

1. The Importance of Murals

Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram, or Wat Phra Kaew, is one of Thailand's most sacred and important sites. Inside the temple, not only is the Emerald Buddha enshrined, but it also houses murals of immense beauty and historical and artistic value. This particular mural depicts the Ramakien, which is considered the longest mural in the world.

2. Ramakien Murals

The murals surrounding the cloisters of Wat Phra Kaew depict the story of the Ramakien in a continuous manner, comprising 178 rooms in total. They begin at the front of the wihan yod and continue clockwise (dakshinavata). These murals were first painted during the reign of King Rama I (Rama I) and were renovated several times during the reigns of Kings Rama III, V, VII, and IX. These paintings reflect the talent of Thai artisans in the past and serve as a valuable source of study for Thai morality and culture.

3. The Humour Within Art

In addition to the main image, there are also "gak" paintings, which are inserted at various points on the walls. They often depict people's daily lives or are satirical and reflect the artist's sense of humor. These paintings are often located below or above the walls, and searching for these gak is like playing a "photo hunt," adding to the fun of visiting the temple.

4. Works by Ajarn Chakraphan Posayakrit

In Room 159 of the Phra Rabiang, you'll find works by Ajarn Chakraphan Posayakrit, National Artist in Visual Arts (Painting) in 2000. His work is notable for its realism and use of natural light and shadow, as well as his clear depiction of the characters' muscle lines.

5. Visiting and Information

· Opening Hours: Wat Phra Kaew is open daily from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.
· Admission: Free for Thais (with ID card). Foreigners pay 500 baht.
· Dress Code: Smart attire is required. Sleeveless shirts, shorts, or sleeveless shirts are prohibited. Clothing and sarong rentals are available.
· Other Prohibitions: Flash photography is prohibited inside the Phra Rabiang. Photography inside the chapel is prohibited.

6. How to Get There

· BTS Skytrain: Get off at Saphan Taksin Station, Exit 2, then take the Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Line) and get off at Tha Chang Pier (N9).
· MRT: Get off at Sanam Chai Station, Exit 1, then take bus no. 3, 9, 44, 47, 53, or 82.
· Boat: Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat and get off at Tha Tien Pier (N8) or Tha Chang Pier (N9), then walk.
· Bus: Bus no. 1, 3, 9, 15, 25, 32, 33, 43, 44, 47, 53, 59, 64, 80, 82, 91, 203, 503, 508, 512.
· Private Car: Parking is available at Wat Mahathat, Tha Maharaj, or the Royal Navy Club.

7. Summary

The murals at Wat Phra Kaew are not only beautiful works of art, but also priceless cultural treasures that reflect Thai history and beliefs. A visit to Wat Phra Kaew not only offers a glimpse of the beauty of the art, but also a sense of the grandeur of this cultural heritage, worthy of preservation and pride.