Steeped in legendary tales and historic references, Wat Saket better known as the golden mount or ‘phu khao thong’, is a man-made hill constructed during the Ayutthaya period and renovated during the reign of King Rama I. Religious devotees visit the famous hilltop where they pay respects to Buddha relics enshrined within the golden chedi. Long ago, Wat Saket used to be the highest construction in Bangkok and still treats its visitors with a panoramic view. After a relaxing day at a Bangkok City hotel such as the Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok, climbing the 300 odd steps to a spectacular view of the capital can be an exhilarating experience. The actual Wat Saket temple is situated at the foot of the hill where visitors can find Buddhist scriptures and living quarters of Buddhist monks as well as the ordination hall and the place of worship called Viharn. The stupa where the relics are stored is at the top of the hill flanked by prayer bells which produce soothing and sonorous sounds.
Historical records claim that during the reign of King Rama III the large chedi that the king ordered to be built collapsed due to the soft soil that the construction stood on; much later King Rama IV built a smaller stupa after preparing the soil with logs inserted in into it. The current stupa was built by Rama V and the authorities reinforced the structures in 1940.
Each year in November, on the day the moon is completely illuminated (full moon), Wat Saket celebrates the Loi Krathong festival which lasts 9 days. This cultural festival is a rare chance to witness the vibrant festive celebrations of yesteryears. In preparation for the festival, the golden chedi is covered in a crimson cloth and devotees climb the hill with lit candles in their hands, creating a beautiful vision. The festivities include effervescent lanterns, delicious food, rides and games.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+
