Bangkok 
2024-07-12 Bangkok is a city rich in history and cultural heritage, and Wat Indrawiharn (วัดอินทรวิหาร) is one of the must-visit destinations.
Temple History |
This temple, located in Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, was built in 1752 during the Ayutthaya period. It was initially called วัดไร่พริก (Chili Temple) because the surrounding land was used to grow chili. Over time, it was renamed Bang Khun Phrom Temple, but it suffered severe damage due to war. During the early Rattanakosin period, many Lao and northern Thai refugees were resettled near the temple. Chao Intra, the uncle of King Rama I's consort, restored the temple, which was then known as Wat Inn.
Reason for Renaming |
Due to its name being similar to another temple, it was officially renamed Wat Intharawihan Bangkhunprom Nok during the reign of King Rama VI. However, people still commonly refer to it as Wat Inn. It is classified as a third-class royal temple.
Luang Phor Toh Buddha |
During the reign of King Rama V, the revered monk Abbott Somdej Toh began constructing a giant Buddha statue at Wat Indrawiharn in 1867. However, he passed away before completing it. The project was continued by Luang Phor Poo, and after 60 years of fundraising and construction, it was finally completed in 1927 during the reign of King Rama VII. The standing Buddha, known as Luang Phor Toh or Phra Si Ariyamettrai (พระศรีอริยเมตไตรย์), stands 32 meters tall and 10 meters 24 inches wide, holding an alms bowl. Due to this, Wat Indrawiharn is also known as Wat Luang Phor Toh.
It is considered the second tallest Buddha statue in Bangkok, after the seated Buddha at Wat Pratunam. The top of the Buddha's head contains relics of the Buddha. This statue symbolizes blessings for prosperity, attracting numerous devotees who come to worship and make wishes. Offerings of flowers at the statue's feet symbolize prayers for good luck and health, and some even pray for fertility. Those who wish to fulfill their vows often bring live fish and boiled eggs, as these are considered the favorite offerings for Luang Phor Toh.
Surrounding Buddha Images |
The main hall of the temple features beautiful murals depicting the biography of Somdet Phra Buddhacarya.
The temple's antique museum houses a statue of Somdet Phra Buddhacarya and a mandala featuring a replica of the Buddha's footprint.
The temple grounds feature an open-air museum with structures such as a four-tiered bell tower, Phra Sangkhajai, and statues of Guan Yin. There are also sacred Bodhi trees from Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India, which are rare to find but are preserved at this temple.
Wat Indrawiharn
Address: Bang Khun Phrom, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok
Opening Hours: 06:00 - 18:00
Entrance Fee: 40 Baht
