Wat Samphanthawongsaram

Wat Samphanthawongsaram is a Buddhist temple in Bangkok's Chinatown featuring a principal Buddha image carved from a hollow log and covered with lime, completed with wooden arms coated in gold. The complex includes multiple halls arranged to support monastic life and ceremonies for worshippers throughout the year.

This temple dates to the Ayutthaya period and underwent renovation under King Rama I in 1796, when it received royal status and the name Wat Ko Kaew Langkaram. The royal designation marked a turning point in the site's importance within the growing city.

The temple serves as a gathering place where local people come to make offerings and participate in daily religious practices. Visitors can observe how the community maintains its Buddhist traditions through regular worship and seasonal celebrations.

The main halls are air-conditioned, providing comfort for visitors observing ceremonies and spending time inside the complex. Dress modestly and be prepared to remove your shoes when entering sacred areas, as these are standard expectations at active temples.

Dan Beach Bradley, Siam's first printer, resided near this temple and his presence led to multiple printing establishments opening in the surrounding area. This connection to early modern printing helped shape the neighborhood's character beyond its religious function.