Wat Rakang Kositaram
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Known as the "Temple of Bells", Wat Rakang used to be called Wat Bangwa Yai, dating back to the Ayutthaya Period (1351–1767). The temple had been renovated several times including in the Thonburi period (1767-1782) when King Taksin the Great had constructed the palace within the neighborhood. He also designated Wat Rakang to be a royal temple for the residence of the first Supreme Patriarch (the head of Buddhist monks) in the Rattanakosin period.
In the reign of King Rama I (1782-1809), Her Royal Highness Princess Sa, the eldest sister of King Rama I, was appointed to patronize the temple. Her residence was located next to the temple. During the temple renovation, an ancient bell was found and moved to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The King ordered to build five new bells to donate to the temple and hence the name "Wat Rakhang Kositaram” (Rakhang means bell in Thai).
There is an old Tripitaka Hall in the temple area. This very hall was the original residence of King Rama I during the Thonburi period. There is also Phra Ubosot (the main ordination hall) with a three-tier roof, typical of the Rattanakosin style, including gable apex, tooth-like ridges on the sloping edges of a gable.
Inside, you will find a bronze Buddha statue in the attitude of meditation with approximately 4 cubits wide. In front of the Buddha image, 3 monk statues can be found.
TakeMeTour's Review
Wat Rakang is located very close to Wang Lang Market next to Siriraj Hospital and the Pran Nok pier. The temple is commonly visited by locals. The temple initiated a public school which was named after the temples. The temple is very well respected. If you're in the area, come to the temple to pray for blessings!
