Wat Khema Phirataram Ratchaworawihan

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wat Khema Phirataram Ratchaworawihan, located in Nonthaburi Province, is a second-class royal monastery of the Ratchaworawihan type with long-standing historical, religious, and royal significance. The temple is situated on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River in Suan Yai Subdistrict, approximately 2 kilometers south of the city center. The front of the temple faces the river, while the rear connects to Phibun Songkhram Road. The temple covers an area of approximately 26 rai.

 

The temple was originally established during the early Ayutthaya period under the name “Wat Khema.” In the Rattanakosin era, it was designated as a royal Kathin temple under the Department of the Front Palace, reflecting its importance within the royal institution. During the reign of King Rama II, Queen Sri Suriyendra, the Queen Consort, requested that the temple be placed under her royal patronage and ordered a major restoration. At that time, the temple continued to be known simply as “Wat Khema.”

 

Later, during the reign of King Rama IV, King Mongkut ordered a complete restoration of the temple and graciously bestowed the extended name “Wat Khema Phirataram,” which has remained its official name to this day. This renaming marked the temple’s continued prominence and development during the Rattanakosin period.

 

In 1982 (B.E. 2525), during the bicentennial celebration of the Rattanakosin Kingdom, the temple committee recognized the temple’s close historical ties with the Chakri Dynasty and the continuous royal patronage it had received. As a result, a multipurpose pavilion named the “200 Years Rattanakosin Pavilion” was constructed within the temple grounds to commemorate this important occasion.

 

The temple houses several important religious and architectural features. One of the most prominent is the large principal stupa, approximately 30 meters in height, located behind the ordination hall. It enshrines sacred relics of the Buddha, which are highly revered in Buddhism. The principal Buddha image inside the ordination hall is an ancient cast Buddha statue in Ayutthaya art style, originally brought from Chandrakasem Palace, demonstrating both artistic excellence and historical value.

 

Another notable highlight is the presence of the Red Palace (Phra Tamnak Daeng) and the Montien Hall (Phra Thinang Monthien), which are associated with the royal court. These structures reflect the temple’s role in connection with the monarchy and enhance its distinct identity as a historically significant royal temple.

 

The overall atmosphere of the temple is peaceful and shaded, making it an ideal place for worship, merit-making, and quiet reflection. Its riverside location along the Chao Phraya River allows visitors to experience cool breezes and scenic views that reflect the traditional riverside lifestyle of Nonthaburi. The temple serves not only as a religious center but also as a cultural and historical attraction of the province.

 

Getting There Visitors can travel to Wat Khema Phirataram Ratchaworawihan by several convenient methods. Public buses are available, and route information can be obtained by calling 184. Alternatively, local shared taxis (songthaews) on the Rewadee–Wat Paknam route are available. Visitors may also take the Chao Phraya Express Boat and disembark at Nonthaburi Pier, then continue by bus route 203. Another option is to take a ferry from Bang Sri Mueang Pier to Nonthaburi Pier and continue by bus, offering a traditional riverside travel experience.

 

 

 

A: It is located in Suan Yai Subdistrict, Mueang Nonthaburi District, Nonthaburi Province, on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River.

 

A: The temple was established during the early Ayutthaya period and later restored in the Rattanakosin era.

 

A: The current abbot is Phra Wachirakhemakhun (Wilas Akkhawaro).

 

A: Key highlights include the 30-meter stupa, Ayutthaya-style Buddha image, Red Palace, and Montien Hall.

 

A: You can travel by public bus, songthaew, or take a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Nonthaburi Pier and continue by bus route 203.

 

A: There is no entrance fee for general visits.