Wat Saket (Temple of the Golden Mount)
A well-known landmark, the towering gold chedi of Wat Saket was
once the highest point in Bangkok. It is notable for its
spectacular views and its hosting of the annual Loy Kratong
festival. History
Wat Saket itself (the temple complex at the bottom of the hill)
dates back to the Ayutthaya era, when it was called Wat Sakae. The
wat was restored under Rama I (1782-1809).
Wat Saket was used for cremation ceremonies, which were not
permitted inside the walled city. During a plague in the reign of
King Rama II (1809-24), 30,000 bodies were brought here.
The Golden Mount is an artificial hill constructed under King
Rama III (1824-51). When the king tried to build a chedi here
before the hill existed, it collapsed because of the soft soil
beneath. He therefore made a strong pile of mud and bricks to
support it.
It was Rama IV (1804-68) who crowned the new hill with the
intended chedi. He also shored up the hill with 1,000 teak logs
because it was already sinking into the swampy ground.
Rama V (1853-1910) added the chedi that stands today, enshrining
within it a relic of the Buddha, said to be from India or Nepal,
given to him by the British. The concrete walls were added during
World War II to prevent the hill from eroding and the structure
collapsing.
What to See
Wat Saket is not generally considered a notable temple in its
own right, and most visitors come for the Golden Mount. However, it
is interesting for its long history and its use as a cremation and
burial site for so many people.
To the reach the top of the Golden Mount, you must ascend an
exhausting 318 steps. On a clear day, the view from the top
includes old Rattanakosin Island and the rooftops of Bangkok.
Just north of Wat Saket is where you can catch canal boats back
to the town center, Siam or further up Sukhumvit.
In: geokrety.org:
Barbarella, 50 pln, Plane, Friends on trip, Silver coin
Best Regards
okT
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