Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen
Sacred Thai Temple
Explore the history and spiritual significance of this sacred site.
Temple History
In the heart of Bangkok’s Phasi Charoen district lies Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen, a temple that represents a fascinating bridge between ancient Ayutthaya roots and a globalized, modern Buddhist movement.
Today, it is most famous for its 69-meter-tall golden Buddha statue that dominates the Bangkok skyline, but its history is deeply rooted in meditation and royal patronage.
Origins: The Gateway to the River
Establishment: The temple was founded during the mid-Ayutthaya period (roughly 1488–1629). Its name, Paknam, means "at the mouth of the river," referring to its location at the junction of several canals.
Royal Status: It was a royal monastery from its inception, supported by various Thai kings throughout the centuries. However, by the early 20th century, the temple had fallen into a state of severe disrepair with only a few monks remaining.
The Legend of Luang Pu Sodh (1884–1959)
The modern revival of Wat Paknam is entirely credited to Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro, who became the abbot in 1916.
Dhammakaya Meditation: Luang Pu Sodh is the founder of the Dhammakaya meditation school. He claimed to have rediscovered a "lost" meditation technique that focused on the center of the body.
The "Mother" Temple: Under his leadership, Wat Paknam became one of the most popular meditation centers in Thailand. Even after his death, his influence remained so strong that his body was kept in a coffin for devotees to pay respects, and it is said the temple never ran out of food or funds due to his "merit."
Amulet Fame: To raise funds for a Buddhist school on the grounds, he produced the famous Phra Wat Paknam amulets. These tiny, white powder amulets are now among the most coveted (and expensive) collectibles in the country.
Modern Landmarks (The 2026 Skyline)
In the last decade, Wat Paknam has transformed from a quiet meditation center into a global landmark.
The Great Pagoda (Maharatchamongkol)
Completed in 2012, this 80-meter-tall white stupa is an architectural marvel.
The Emerald Room: On the top floor, there is a stunning emerald-glass stupa surrounded by a ceiling mural of the cosmos that looks like a galaxy of stars and dragons. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful interior spaces in any Thai temple.
The Museum: The lower floors house a massive collection of antiques, including vintage cars, clocks, and rare Buddhist artifacts donated by followers.
The Great Buddha (Phra Buddha Dhammakaya Thep Mongkol)
Completed in 2021, this is now the temple's most iconic feature.
Size: It stands 69 meters tall (about the height of a 20-story building).
Material: It is made of pure copper, which gives it a unique reddish-gold glow, especially at sunset.
Symbolism: The statue represents the Buddha in a meditation posture, reflecting the temple’s core mission of mindfulness.
Tips for Visiting
The Iconic Photo Op: The best photos of the giant Buddha are actually taken from the canals on a long-tail boat or from the BTS Skytrain (Silom Line) between Talat Phlu and Wutthakat stations.
Dress Code: This is a royal temple; shoulders and knees must be covered. The "Emerald Room" requires quiet and respectful behavior.
Access: It is easily accessible via the MRT Blue Line (Bang Phai Station), followed by a short walk or motorcycle taxi.
Quick Comparison: The "Big Statue" EraTempleMain AttractionFocusWat Paknam69m Copper BuddhaMeditation & Modern ArtWat Ban RaiCeramic ElephantVisual SurrealismWat Phra That Nong BuaIndian-style Stupa2,500 Years of Buddhism
Today, it is most famous for its 69-meter-tall golden Buddha statue that dominates the Bangkok skyline, but its history is deeply rooted in meditation and royal patronage.
Origins: The Gateway to the River
Establishment: The temple was founded during the mid-Ayutthaya period (roughly 1488–1629). Its name, Paknam, means "at the mouth of the river," referring to its location at the junction of several canals.
Royal Status: It was a royal monastery from its inception, supported by various Thai kings throughout the centuries. However, by the early 20th century, the temple had fallen into a state of severe disrepair with only a few monks remaining.
The Legend of Luang Pu Sodh (1884–1959)
The modern revival of Wat Paknam is entirely credited to Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro, who became the abbot in 1916.
Dhammakaya Meditation: Luang Pu Sodh is the founder of the Dhammakaya meditation school. He claimed to have rediscovered a "lost" meditation technique that focused on the center of the body.
The "Mother" Temple: Under his leadership, Wat Paknam became one of the most popular meditation centers in Thailand. Even after his death, his influence remained so strong that his body was kept in a coffin for devotees to pay respects, and it is said the temple never ran out of food or funds due to his "merit."
Amulet Fame: To raise funds for a Buddhist school on the grounds, he produced the famous Phra Wat Paknam amulets. These tiny, white powder amulets are now among the most coveted (and expensive) collectibles in the country.
Modern Landmarks (The 2026 Skyline)
In the last decade, Wat Paknam has transformed from a quiet meditation center into a global landmark.
The Great Pagoda (Maharatchamongkol)
Completed in 2012, this 80-meter-tall white stupa is an architectural marvel.
The Emerald Room: On the top floor, there is a stunning emerald-glass stupa surrounded by a ceiling mural of the cosmos that looks like a galaxy of stars and dragons. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful interior spaces in any Thai temple.
The Museum: The lower floors house a massive collection of antiques, including vintage cars, clocks, and rare Buddhist artifacts donated by followers.
The Great Buddha (Phra Buddha Dhammakaya Thep Mongkol)
Completed in 2021, this is now the temple's most iconic feature.
Size: It stands 69 meters tall (about the height of a 20-story building).
Material: It is made of pure copper, which gives it a unique reddish-gold glow, especially at sunset.
Symbolism: The statue represents the Buddha in a meditation posture, reflecting the temple’s core mission of mindfulness.
Tips for Visiting
The Iconic Photo Op: The best photos of the giant Buddha are actually taken from the canals on a long-tail boat or from the BTS Skytrain (Silom Line) between Talat Phlu and Wutthakat stations.
Dress Code: This is a royal temple; shoulders and knees must be covered. The "Emerald Room" requires quiet and respectful behavior.
Access: It is easily accessible via the MRT Blue Line (Bang Phai Station), followed by a short walk or motorcycle taxi.
Quick Comparison: The "Big Statue" EraTempleMain AttractionFocusWat Paknam69m Copper BuddhaMeditation & Modern ArtWat Ban RaiCeramic ElephantVisual SurrealismWat Phra That Nong BuaIndian-style Stupa2,500 Years of Buddhism