Vibrantly Diverse Places of Worship
Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan
24 Prajadhipok Rd, Wat Kanlaya, Thonburi, Bangkok
One of the most prominent Buddhist temple complexes in Thonburi, the 19th-century Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan (often called Wat Prayun) pays tribute to historical figures and events from numerous ethnicities. Its magnificent, UNESCO-listed main chedi, built in Lankan style, houses relics of the Buddha from Sri Lanka. The peaceful, leafy Khao Mo rock garden contains a replica of Mount Meru – considered the centre of the universe in Hindu and Jain as well as Buddhist mythology. The site’s three-cannon monument also memorialises an important American missionary in Thailand, Dan Beach Bradley.
Goowatin Islam Mosque
56 Somdet Chao Phraya Road, Klong San Bangkok
This riverfront compound near Wat Prayun is unusual among mosques in Bangkok, in that it was built in the style of Indian-Islamic architecture. It was created during the reign of King Rama IV by a family of influential Indian traders, the Nanas, whose descendants are still prominent supporters of Bangkok’s Muslim community. The exterior of the mosque has a tall minaret that can be seen from the river, while the interior has decorative arch motifs in green and gold.
Princess Mother Memorial Park
Somdet Chao Phraya Rd Alley 3, Khlong San, Bangkok
This enchanting green park, just a few steps from Goowatin Islam mosque, offers a verdant oasis where local residents take walks, play soccer, and do morning tai chi. It was created in 1997 by Thailand’s former King Bhumibol in honour of his mother, who had been a beloved figure among Thais for her many acts of service and outreach to disadvantaged communities. The park contains a reproduction of the modest house the Princess Mother grew up in as a child, as well as exhibit halls where photos and mementos of her are displayed.
Guan Yu Shrine
Somdet Chao Phraya Rd Alley 3, Thonburi, Bangkok
One of Bangkok’s oldest Chinese shrines, this small riverfront complex sits adjacent to the Princess Mother Memorial Park. Originally built in the 18th century by Hokkien immigrants from China, the shrine features a pagoda-style tower, adorned with colourfully painted dragons and horses (both traditional Chinese symbols of strength). It also has an indoor shrine hall, where the elaborated red and gold interiors centre around three statues of Guan Yu, the Chinese god of war and loyalty. Local Chinese residents pray here to Guan Yu for good fortune in business and real estate – which is why the largest statue of him is always festooned with copies of contracts and deeds.
Wat Prayurawongsawat Worawihan / 24 Prajadhipok Rd, Wat Kanlaya, Thonburi, Bangkok / tourismthailand.org
Goowatin Islam Mosque / 56 Somdet Chao Phraya Road, Klong San Bangkok / bangkokriver.com
Princess Mother Memorial Park / Somdet Chao Phraya Rd Alley 3, Khlong San, Bangkok / bangkokriver.com
Guan Yu Shrine / Somdet Chao Phraya Rd Alley 3, Thonburi, Bangkok / touristbangkok.com
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