Wat Chana Songkram Rajchaworamahavihan

"Wat Chanasongkhram Ratchaworamahawiharn, often abbreviated as Wat Chana Songkhram, is a second-class royal monastery located in the Bang Lamphu area of Phra Nakhon District in central Bangkok. The temple sits opposite Khaosan Road and next to Rambuttri Road, making it a prominent site in this vibrant part of the city. Situated at 77 Chakrabongse Road, Wat Chana Songkhram is one of Bangkok's older temples, predating the first Rattanakosin period (before 1782). Initially known as "Wat Klang Na" (meaning temple in the middle of a paddy field), it was later renovated during the reign of King Phutthayotfa Chulalok (Rama I) to accommodate Mon people and monks. Prince Maha Sura Singhanat, the king's younger brother, played a key role in this transformation. Under Rama I’s reign, the temple was further developed and renamed "Wat Thong Pu," after a Mon temple in Ayutthaya and Lopburi, as the Mon sect of Buddhism became central to the temple's activities. The temple also became a significant site for Mon soldiers who fought in wars with the Burmese. Following the victory of the Thai forces over the Burmese in multiple campaigns between 1785 and 1787, the temple was restored and granted the name "Wat Chana Songkhram," meaning "Temple of Victory," to commemorate these military successes. Today, Wat Chana Songkhram remains a respected Buddhist temple and a key part of Bangkok's cultural and religious landscape. It is one of the temples included in the "Respect to the Nine Temples" campaign by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), promoting visits to important temples for auspicious blessings. Visitors can explore the temple daily at no cost, making it an accessible and meaningful stop for both locals and tourists alike."

"A much less touristy temple, locals pray here a lot. Entry is free as well. All of the gold you see 24 karat! Don't forget to cover up and be respectful of the monks. "