Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
Central Thailand Region
Wat Saket Ratchawora Mahawihan, commonly called Wat Saket, is a prominent Buddhist temple located in Bangkok's Pom Prap Sattru Phai district. Originating in the Ayutthaya period as Wat Sakae, it was renamed and renovated by King Rama I. The temple is renowned for its artificial hill, Phu Khao Thong, or the Golden Mount, which was initially an ambitious chedi project by King Rama III but collapsed due to unstable soil. Over time, the abandoned structure became overgrown and resembled a natural hill, later serving as a lookout point. Construction resumed under King Rama IV and was completed in King Rama V's reign, culminating in a gilded chedi enshrining a Buddha relic from Sri Lanka. The Golden Mount is encircled by protective concrete walls built in the 1940s to prevent erosion. Wat Saket hosts an annual festival each November featuring a candlelight procession where devotees drape the chedi with a red robe, praying for wishes to come true, alongside a lively Loi Krathong celebration with traditional performances and folklore exhibits. Historically, the temple was also a major cremation site during cholera epidemics, symbolized by the haunting image of vultures feeding on corpses, which influenced local expressions. Today, Wat Saket remains a symbol of Bangkok, attracting visitors for its spiritual significance, architecture, and panoramic views.
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Tip: The best time to visit Wat Saket is during the annual festival in November, when the candlelight procession and Loi Krathong celebrations take place. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues. Modest dress is required when entering the temple. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting for photography. Entry discounts may be available for students and seniors. The climb up the Golden Mount involves steps, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •The Golden Mount is an artificial hill created from the collapsed chedi structure and accumulated earth.
- •A Buddha relic enshrined in the chedi was brought from Sri Lanka by Prince Pritsadang.
- •The annual festival includes draping the chedi with a long red robe, a tradition since King Rama V's reign.
- •Wat Saket was a main cremation site during severe cholera epidemics in 19th-century Bangkok.
- •The phrase 'Raeng Wat Saket' (vultures of Wat Saket) became a popular expression symbolizing death during cholera outbreaks.
History
Wat Saket dates back to the Ayutthaya period, originally named Wat Sakae.
King Rama I renovated and renamed it after his ritual of washing his hair there upon returning from war.
King Rama III attempted to build a massive chedi on an artificial hill, but it collapsed due to Bangkok's soft soil.
The structure remained abandoned and became overgrown, resembling a natural hill used as a military lookout.
Construction resumed under King Rama IV and was completed during King Rama V's reign, with the chedi covered in gold and housing a Buddha relic.
The temple's modern buildings were constructed in the early 20th century.
Historically, Wat Saket served as a cremation ground during cholera outbreaks in the 19th century, becoming known for vultures feeding on corpses.
Place Guide
Phu Khao Thong (Golden Mount)19th century
The steep artificial hill within Wat Saket's compound, topped by the golden chedi. Visitors climb approximately 300 steps to reach the summit, which offers panoramic views of Bangkok. The hill was formed from the collapsed chedi structure and earth accumulation over decades.
Golden ChediCompleted early reign of King Rama V (mid-19th century)
The gilded chedi at the summit of the Golden Mount, enshrining a Buddha relic brought from Sri Lanka. It is the focal point of the temple and the annual festival where devotees pray and drape the chedi with a red robe.
Ubosot (Ordination Hall)Early 20th century
The main ordination hall of Wat Saket, built in the early 20th century using Carrara marble. It serves as the primary place for Buddhist rituals and ceremonies within the temple complex.
