Occupying pride of place in the historic quarter of Banglamphu lies what was once famed as the highest structure in all of Bangkok till the beginning of the 20th century. Locally known as Wat Saket Temple and globally recognized as the site of Golden Mount, this breathtaking edifice towering above the city is a historic religious institution dating back nearly 200 years. Offering visitors a bird’s eye view of Bangkok and all its intriguing corners from its vaulted summit, the Golden Mount is also a popular lookout point cum observation deck for both locals and seasoned visitors as the venue affords panoramic 360 degree views in all directions. Constructed during the Ayutthaya era of the 1700s Wat Saket predates nearly all of Bangkok’s iconic temples including Wat Pho, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun. Established during the period when Bangkok was nothing more than a tiny trading port in Asia this captivating religious centre has been a silent witness to the city’s progress over the years as it became one of Asia’s leading economic players.
Dubbed Phu Khao Thong in Thai the Golden Mount was constructed in the first half of the 1800’s by King Rama III, the grandchild of Rama I. Towering above the surrounding landscape at a staggering height of 58m above ground level the man-made mountain is perhaps best known for the massive gold Chedi at its summit. Tipped to house precious relics belonging to Lord Buddha the summit can be reached via a stairwell that has been picturesquely laid out in a space littered by waterfalls and floral gardens. Prayer bells are also strategically positioned along the route to the top while guests will encounter a large open-air platform after crossing a steep stairwell which is found once they have navigated through an interior shrine containing a Buddha image encased in gold leaves. At the top guests can enjoy the panoramic views on offer or join the locals in lighting candles, setting flowers and aromatic joss sticks in prayer. Blessed with a constant wind that is cool as well as soothing guests can unwind and soak up the atmosphere to the sound of small leaf shaped bells that have been donated by patrons.
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