Wat Intharam Worawihan (Wat Bang Yi Ruea Tai)

Rating: 2.6/5 (25 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wat Intharam Worawihan (Wat Bang Yi Ruea Tai) Wat Intharam Worawihan is one of the most significant temples on the Thonburi side of Bangkok, deeply tied to local community memory and the historical chapter of Thonburi as the capital. This is not merely a place to stop by for merit-making; it is regarded as a “peace memorial sanctuary” where many people come to pay respect and remember King Taksin the Great, a revered Thai monarch who performed royal merit-making here. Stories and relics associated with His Majesty have remained like a spiritual anchor for the people of Thonburi to this day.

 

One highlight that is especially worth seeing and studying is the “Phra Than Banthom Saiyas” (the royal reclining-rest platform). It is said to have been a royal seat where the King stayed overnight, observed precepts, and practiced meditation. That sense of calm lingers through the temple grounds, as if quietly pulling you back in time to the image of a warrior-king returning to stillness as a steady inner refuge.

 

Another compelling aspect of Wat Intharam’s history is its connection to the royal remains of King Taksin in B.E. 2327 (1784 CE) and those of his principal queen. Tradition holds that the royal cremation rites were performed and the royal relics were enshrined at this temple for both of them. This connection gives a visit here a different emotional weight—less about simply “making wishes” and more about paying quiet respect before the nation’s living history.

 

The temple is located on Thoet Thai Road near the mouth of Khlong Bang Yi Ruea, along Khlong Bangkok Yai (also known as Khlong Bang Luang) in Bang Yi Ruea Subdistrict, Thonburi District, Bangkok. Historically, the temple faced the canal, but after the road was constructed, the highway also became a main frontage. The temple land was originally a single continuous plot. Later, the Mahachai railway line cut behind the temple, taking part of the land on the eastern side up to Khlong Bang Yi Ruea (Khlong Samre). The municipality also built a road along the eastern side, skimming the outer wall around the ubosot down to the canal. As a result, the temple area became divided into 2 plots. The temple compound is approximately 15 rai 2 ngan, and the monastic land used for income to maintain the temple is about 9 rai 2 ngan 90 square wah, for a total of roughly 25 rai.

 

Inside the ubosot is a registered Buddha image in the “Halting the Ocean” posture, wearing a ceremonial headdress. The Fine Arts Department has listed it, and when restoration work is undertaken, officials inspect and provide guidance so that repairs remain consistent with the original architectural and artistic value.

 

Another charm of the temple is its mural paintings, reflecting Chinese artistic influence. The Chinese-style royal regalia motifs were carefully hand-painted by volunteer artisans, so both the murals and ceiling patterns have been preserved. At the same time, the temple sought permission to repair only damaged sections, following the principle of not painting over the original work. Skilled artisans trusted and recognized for such conservation were selected so that any new additions would respectfully harmonize with the old. What you see today feels like a dialogue between the past and careful stewardship.

 

Wat Intharam also serves as a community hub—for merit-making, traditions, and local activities. The Thoet Thai–Bang Yi Ruea–Talat Phlu area is lively, rich with food culture and local character, so visiting the temple can easily become part of a slow, unhurried neighborhood walk.

 

Getting There The temple is easy to reach by both private car and public transport. If coming by train, take the BTS Silom Line and get off at a station on the Thonburi side close to the Talat Phlu area, then continue by taxi or motorcycle taxi to Thoet Thai Road. If driving, search for “Wat Intharam Worawihan (Wat Bang Yi Ruea Tai)” on your map and allow extra time in the late afternoon or evening, as the Talat Phlu area can get especially busy.

 

 

A: Generally, yes. Visiting in the morning to early afternoon is recommended for a more comfortable walk around the temple.

 

A: Generally 08:00 – 17:00.

 

A: The royal reclining-rest platform, the Chinese-influenced mural paintings, and the calm atmosphere connected to the Thonburi-era history.

 

A: Yes. You can take the BTS on the Thonburi side and continue by taxi or motorcycle taxi to Thoet Thai Road.

 

A: Dress modestly. Avoid very short or overly tight clothing, and keep your voice low—especially near areas used for religious activities.

 

A: Continue to Talat Phlu, Baan Silapin at Khlong Bang Luang, Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, or enjoy the riverside at ICONSIAM.