Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, also known as Wat Mangkon, is a Chinese Buddhist temple in the Phra Nakhon District of Bangkok.
It is one of the city’s oldest and most important Chinese Buddhist temples and is known for its annual Vegetarian Festival and colourful Chinese architectural style.
To get there, take the MRT to the Wat Mangkon Station and take a 5-minute walk to the temple.
Alternatively, take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to the Ratchawong Pier and take a 15-minute walk to the temple.
The temple is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, and there is no entrance fee.
However, visitors are asked to dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, and to remove their shoes before entering the temple buildings.
The temple’s main attraction is the main hall, which contains a giant golden statue of Kuan Yin, the Chinese goddess of mercy.
However, the temple also features other interesting buildings, such as the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower, used during religious ceremonies.
Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is an important religious site for the Thai-Chinese community and a popular tourist destination.
Visitors can learn about Chinese Buddhism and culture and the beautiful Chinese architectural styles.
The temple is famous for its annual Vegetarian Festival, held in September/October. The Festival is colourful and lively, where visitors can see traditional Chinese-Thai ceremonies, processions, and cultural performances.
Overall, Wat Mangkon Kamalawat is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Buddhism, Chinese culture and history.
It offers a great example of the integration of Chinese Thai culture.