Bangkok'sHidden Gem - Wat Suthat Thepphawararam

When we talk about Bangkok, the first places that come to mind are usually the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, or the bustling Khao San Road. But tucked away in the Old City lies another royal treasure — Wat Suthat Thepphawararam (Wat Suthat / The Giant Buddha Temple), one of Thailand’s six first-class royal temples.

🏯 History & Significance
Wat Suthat was commissioned by King Rama I and later completed during the reigns of Rama II and Rama III. Inside the main hall sits the majestic Phra Sri Sakayamuni, a giant bronze Buddha image from the Sukhothai era, standing 8 meters tall — one of the largest bronze Buddhas in Thailand. Beneath the statue rests the ashes of King Rama VIII, making it deeply significant to the Thai royal family.

🎨 Art & Beauty
Step inside the ordination hall and you’ll be captivated by the murals that illustrate Buddhist cosmology, Hindu legends, and scenes of everyday Thai life. These are considered some of the finest temple murals in the country. Surrounding the hall are 28 Buddha images, representing the 28 Buddhas who attained enlightenment before the present one.

📍 The Giant Swing
Right in front of the temple stands the iconic Giant Swing (Sao Chingcha), painted in striking red. In the past, Brahmin ceremonies were performed here to celebrate the harvest. Although the ritual was stopped in 1935 for safety reasons, the swing remains one of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks.

🙌 Visitor Tips
Opening hours: Daily, 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM

Entrance fee: 100 THB (free for locals)

Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the hall

Perfect to combine with visits to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Loha Prasat (Metal Castle) nearby

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