Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan, also known as Wat Mahaprutharam is an ancient temple, built during the Ayutthaya era. The temple is located on the east side of the Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem and spreads over 14 hectares. Initially a resting place for water buffalo carts, the temple was originally known as Wat Tha Kwian. It was later renovated by King Rama IV, given the current name and status of a third-class royal temple.
Wat Maha Phruettharam is known for housing several interesting objects, which include mural paintings and a magnificent statue of the Reclining Buddha. The temple complex has three buildings, with the first building being known as Viharn Luang Pho Sukhothai. The central building is known as Ubosot and houses the murals. The building at the rear is Viharn where you will be able to witness the Reclining Buddha. Observe the four prang in a row between ubosot and Viharn Luang Pho Sukhothai.
Highlights
• Visit Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan, an ancient temple known for its mural paintings and a statue of the Reclining Buddha.
• Explore the temple complex which houses 3 buildings, 4 prangs and the Pho Tree under which Buddha sat while being enlightened.
• Walk into the first building, Viharn Luang Pho Sukhothai, to observe the beautiful images of Buddha.
• Admire the mural paintings which you will find on the walls of the second building, Ubosot.
• Feel mesmerised, looking at the magnificent golden statue of the reclining Buddha at the Viharn, the third building of the complex.
How To Reach
By car: Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan is located 4.3 km from the city centre, it will take 10 minutes to reach the temple via Luang Rd. However, if you have hired a car or a taxi, remember that Mahaprutharam Road is a one-way street. Hence, you will need to come via Rama IV Road, turn left into Mahaprutharam Road at Hua Lam Phong junction and then proceed to the temple.
By Boat: You can take a Chao Phraya river boat from the Sathorn Pier, which is below S6 Saphan Taksin Station. Get down at N3 Si Phraya Pier near the River City Antique Centre and take a taxi or tuk tuk to reach the temple.
By MRT Blue Line: Take the MRT Blue Line to reach BL28 Hua LamPhong Station and take a taxi to the temple from there
Best Time To Visit
Wat Maha Phruettharam Worawihan is open throughout the year, making it possible for visitors to visit the temple any time of the year.
Best season: Winter months from November till December is the best season to visit the temple. The weather at this time is pleasant, and it is comfortable for exploring the temple.
Best day in the week: The Best day to visit the temple is on a weekday. If you visit during weekends and on public holidays, you will find the temple complex to be very crowded.
Best time of the day: The best time of the day to visit the temple is early in the morning when the crowd is less. Visiting during this time, you will be able to explore the temple more comfortably.
Other Essential Information
- There is no entry for visiting Wat Maha Pruettharam. However, you can make a donation for entry at the Viharn with the reclining Buddha.
- As the attraction is a temple, you will be required to dress appropriately and ensure shoulders and knees are not exposed.
- You will need to remove your footwear before entering any of the three buildings of the temple complex.
Visit the Viharn Luang Pho Sukhothai
Viharn Luang Pho Sukhothai is the first building of the temple, where you will find worshippers meditating and praying. The building was named after a venerable monk, Luang Pho, and has many Buddha images. Observe the altar, where you will find several beautiful Buddha images.
Walk into the Ubosot
The Ubosot is the most beautiful building of Wat Maha Phruettharam and is located in the middle of the other two buildings. It is an ordination hall where new monks enter monkhood by taking their vows. Walk into the Ubosot and head towards the altar where you will find the principal Buddha image. Have a look at the walls of the Ubosot where beautiful murals are present from just above the floor to the ceiling. The Ubosot also has a replica of the royal crown of Rama IV.
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Observe the Prang
Located between the wall enclosure of the ubosot and Viharn Luang Pho Sukhothai are the four Prang. Take a look at the Prang, which is a religious spire of Khmer origin with intricate carvings and niches on the sides.
Look out for other temple features
There are several attractive features which are located in the buildings in Wat Mahaprutharam. Look out for the Shofar, which represents the mythical serpent the Naga, and is a horn-like structure, projecting from the apex of the gable. Do not miss out on the Pho tree located within the grounds of Wat Mahaprutharam, under which Buddha sat during his Enlightenment. Admire the hor rakhang, the traditional bell tower.
Admire the reclining Buddha at Viharn
Go to the third building of Wat Mahaprutharam where the 19m gold statue of the reclining Buddha is present. The building also has several other golden statues of Buddha in standing and sitting positions.
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