Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram
Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram, also known as Wat Nang Chi Worawihan or simply Wat Nang Chai, is a third-class royal Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand. Dating back to the Ayutthaya period, it is notable for its unique Chinese architectural influences and the unusual enshrinement of Buddha's relics outside of a pagoda.
Key Facts
- ›The temple dates back to the middle Ayutthaya period and its name signifies a "votaress temple."
- ›It was restored and rebuilt with Chinese architectural elements during the early Rattanakosin period under Kings Rama I and Rama III.
- ›Unlike many temples, the relics of Buddha are enshrined here without being placed in a pagoda.
- ›The temple and its surrounding canals were used as a filming location for a boat chase scene in the 1974 James Bond film, 'the Man with the Golden Gun'.
- ›It hosts an annual 'Chak Phra' tradition involving a decorated barge procession of Buddha's relics, which has taken place for over 200 years.
- ›Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram is considered the only Chak Phra tradition that occurs within Bangkok.
Important Relationships
- King Rama I
- King Rama III
- Enshrinement of Buddha's Relics Without A Pagoda
- Chinese Architectural Influences
- Restoration and Rebuilding During the Reigns of King Rama I and King Rama Iii
Chinese
About Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram
Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram, also known by the variations Wat Nang Chi Worawihan and the simpler Wat Nang Chai, is a significant third-class royal Buddhist temple situated in Bangkok, Thailand. Its origins trace back to the middle Ayutthaya period, and its name historically signifies a "votaress temple," reflecting its founding circumstances.
History and Architecture
The temple's history is marked by periods of abandonment and restoration. It is recorded to have been restored and partially rebuilt during the early Rattanakosin period, under the reigns of King Rama I and King Rama III. During these restorations, Chinese architectural styles became popular and were incorporated into the temple's design, notably resulting in the ordination hall lacking the typical gable apex found in other Thai temples.
Unique Features and Traditions
A distinctive characteristic of Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram is the enshrinement of Buddha's relics, which are housed within the temple grounds but not within a traditional pagoda. The temple and its surrounding canals hold cultural significance, having been used as a filming location for a notable boat chase scene in the 1974 James Bond film, 'The Man with the Golden Gun'.
Chak Phra Tradition
Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram is renowned for its annual "Chak Phra" religious tradition, a practice that has continued for over 200 years. This event involves parading the Buddha's relics on a beautifully adorned barge that sails through local canals, drawing participation from the community for merit-making. This tradition is unique as it is the only Chak Phra ceremony that takes place within the city of Bangkok. It is traditionally held on the second day of the waning moon in the 12th Thai lunar month, though it has been extended to three days to accommodate more devotees.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical origin of Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram?
Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram's origins trace back to the middle Ayutthaya period. It is said to have been founded by a nobleman who built the temple as a votive offering after his daughter recovered from an illness.
What architectural style influences can be seen at Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram?
During restorations in the early Rattanakosin period, particularly under Kings Rama I and Rama III, the temple was rebuilt with Chinese architectural influences. This is evident in features like the absence of a gable apex on the ordination hall's roof, which differs from typical Thai temple designs.
Where are the Buddha's relics enshrined at Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram?
An interesting feature of Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram is that the Buddha's relics are enshrined within the temple grounds but are not housed in a traditional pagoda, which is a common practice in other Buddhist temples.
Has Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram been featured in any films?
Yes, the temple and its adjacent canals served as a filming location for the 1974 James Bond movie, 'The Man with the Golden Gun'. Specifically, it was used for a memorable boat chase scene.
What is the 'Chak Phra' tradition at Wat Nang Chi Chotikaram?
The 'Chak Phra' is an annual religious tradition where the Buddha's relics are placed on a beautifully decorated barge. This barge then sails through the local canals in a procession, drawing significant public participation for merit-making. It is considered the only Chak Phra ceremony held in Bangkok.
When is the 'Chak Phra' tradition held?
Traditionally, the 'Chak Phra' is held annually on the 2nd day of the waning moon of the 12th Thai lunar month. The event has been extended to three days in recent times to allow more people to participate and pay respects.
Related Buddhist Temples
Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai
Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai is a historic Thai Buddhist temple located in Samut Prakan Province, on the outskirts of Bangkok. Classified as a third-rank royal temple, its origins date back to the middle Ayutthaya period, and it was originally built to commemorate a significant royal victory. The temple is particularly renowned for housing Luang Pho To, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha statues, which according to folklore was discovered floating in a local canal.
Wat Arun
Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a prominent Buddhist temple situated on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Thailand. Its iconic central spire, or prang, encrusted with colorful porcelain, makes it one of Thailand's most recognizable landmarks, blending Indian, Hindu, and Siamese influences.
Wat Benchamabophit
Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, is a prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand, celebrated for its exquisite architecture that blends traditional Thai styles with subtle European influences. Commissioned by King Chulalongkorn and designed by Prince Naris, it is constructed primarily of Italian marble and features a distinguished ordination hall housing a revered Buddha image.