Wat Prasat

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wat Prasat, Nonthaburi Province is an ancient temple of significant historical and artistic value, located in Bang Krang Subdistrict, Mueang Nonthaburi District, Nonthaburi Province. The temple dates back to the late Ayutthaya period and is associated with the reign of King Narai the Great, a time when Thai art and architecture were strongly influenced by a blend of Thai, Mon, and Ayutthaya cultural elements. As a result, Wat Prasat has become an important site for studying traditional Thai art in Nonthaburi today.

 

Wat Prasat in Nonthaburi was built during the late Ayutthaya period in the reign of King Narai the Great. The pediment of the ordination hall is made of teak wood, intricately carved into the image of Narayan riding Garuda. Although the Garuda figure has been stolen, the remaining structure still clearly reflects the craftsmanship of master artisans of the Ayutthaya era. The upper structure is decorated with Mon-style wooden elements known as Ruai Mon, which are carved wooden pieces extending along the gable. Adjacent to these are triangular decorative elements called Hun Nok, featuring carvings of Ratchasi (lion) and Khotchasi (mythical elephant-lion creature).

 

The highlight of Wat Prasat is its ordination hall (ubosot), which features a rare and distinctive architectural style. The pediment is crafted from teak wood and showcases refined carving techniques that demonstrate the high level of artistic skill during the Ayutthaya period.

 

The architectural design of the ubosot reflects strong Mon artistic influence, particularly in the Ruai Mon elements, as well as the decorative Hun Nok structures, which incorporate mythical animal motifs. These details represent a cultural fusion that was prominent in the Chao Phraya River basin.

 

The ubosot is built in the form of a Maha-Ud ordination hall, meaning it has no windows or wall openings. This design creates a highly enclosed and serene environment, suitable for sacred religious ceremonies. The base of the ubosot is designed in a boat-shaped or elephant-belly form, which is slightly curved outward. This architectural design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves a functional purpose: hot air rises upward while cooler air flows in more easily, allowing for better natural ventilation.

 

Inside the ubosot enshrines the principal Buddha image along with disciples. The interior walls are adorned with murals from the late Ayutthaya period, created by highly skilled local artisans of Nonthaburi. These murals depict the Ten Jataka Tales (Thosachat Chadok), representing the previous lives of the Buddha before enlightenment. These paintings are considered among the oldest mural artworks in Nonthaburi Province and hold exceptional artistic and historical value.

 

The temple is recognized as a well-preserved example of proper conservation of ancient structures and traditional art. This makes Wat Prasat an important educational site for both Thai and international visitors interested in history, religion, and cultural heritage.

 

Additionally, the temple features a sermon hall (sala kan parian) that houses an ancient wooden pulpit of similar age to the ubosot. The pulpit is richly decorated with intricate carvings, showcasing the refined craftsmanship of past artisans.

 

As a result, Wat Prasat stands as a distinguished cultural landmark, representing the pride of Nonthaburi Province. The temple maintains a peaceful and shaded atmosphere, making it suitable for merit-making, meditation, and cultural exploration. Visitors can easily access the temple by traveling through Nonthaburi city toward Bang Krang Subdistrict, which is located not far from Bangkok.

 

 

A: It was built during the late Ayutthaya period in the reign of King Narai the Great.

 

A: The main highlight is the Maha-Ud ordination hall with teak carvings and ancient murals.

 

A: It is a windowless ordination hall designed for sacred rituals and a peaceful environment.

 

A: It is located in Bang Krang Subdistrict, Nonthaburi Province.

 

A: Yes, it is ideal for cultural tourism, historical study, and peaceful visits near Bangkok.