Thailand
When heading to Phra Khanong, travelers have one goal in mind: visiting the stupa of Wat Dhamma Mongkhol, Thailand's rendition of the Mahabodhi Stupa in Bodh Gaya. However, this attraction should not overshadow the district's other offerings. Offering a cheerful mix of bars, restaurants, eateries, and art institutions, the Phra Khanong district, situated between On Nut and Ukkamai, is worth exploring during a visit to Bangkok.
In Phra Khanong, between art and culinary journey
As a suburban district of Bangkok, Phra Khanong skillfully blends ancient temples with futuristic skyscrapers. Many immigrants contribute their own culture, language, and culinary styles, yet the unity of Phra Khanong lies in the marriage of these contrasts. Historically and culturally, the district boasts the prestigious Buddhist temple, Wat Dhamma Mongkhol, featuring a bell-shaped stupa reminiscent of the famous Mahabodhi Temple in India, where Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. Tourist swirls are centered around shopping. On Sukhumvit Road, Chinese and Japanese restaurants invite you on a culinary journey. Cafés, breweries, and brand-name shops line the streets. For lovers of modern art and diverse cuisines, Phra Khanong should be on your must-visit list.
City history
The origin of the name "Phra Khanong" divides linguists. While it translates to "eyebrow" in French, many believe its root might be "Khanon," meaning "customs," supported by its historical proximity to a commercial port. Regardless, Khmer influence in the region dates back over a millennium. Phra Khanong emerged as an ordinary town by 1902. Due to commercial prosperity and subsequent population growth, it was elevated to a district in 1927, transitioning from the jurisdiction of Phra Pradaeng province to Bangkok.
Today
With nearly 90,000 residents, Phra Khanong is among Bangkok's 50 districts. The city is easily navigable in a day, offering attractions for shopping enthusiasts, beer bar aficionados, and luxury dining seekers.
Must-see and do
Wat Dhamma Mongkhol
Accessible within a 10-minute walk from the station, Wat Dhamma Mongkhol, completed in the early 1960s, is Phra Khanong's most prominent landmark. The project idea originated from a venerable monk who spent 20 years meditating in the forest. The stupa, known as Somdet Phra Yannawachirodom, stands at a towering 95 meters, with a square base tapering upward to mimic a bell shape. It holds significant importance for Buddhist devotees, resembling the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment. The stupa's top is adorned with precious stones, including 17 kilograms of gold and a diamond weighing over 1,060 carats.
Visible from tens of kilometers away, Wat Mongkhol's stupa gives Phra Khanong its distinctive skyline and is a source of pride for Thailand. Locals revere it as a place of worship, while foreigners see it as a spiritual retreat and a Buddhist exhibition center.
Wat Wachiratham Sathit
This royal-ranked monastery is of recent origin, showcasing Northern Thai architecture in its multi-tiered roof ordination hall. Adjacent to the Ubosot is a two-tone stupa in similar style, housing a 500-year-old Buddha sculpture by the Lanna people. A stroll through the temple offers a glimpse of Chiang Mai in the heart of Bangkok. Don't miss the replica of the Mahabodhi Temple, a favorite among visitors.
Art institutions
For a cultural break, explore the city's art institutes. The Hof Art Space exhibits contemporary Thai school works, honoring both established artists and emerging talents alongside international masters. At Naiipa Art Complex, interact with young artists in their working studios.
Shopping excursion
After art exploration, visit Sukhumvit's cafes, restaurants, and brand-name boutiques. It's a treasure trove for bargain hunters, offering the latest high-tech products like smartphones, smartwatches, and gadgets at moderately lower prices than other Bangkok suburbs.
How to get there
Phra Khanong lies southeast of central Bangkok, accessible via BTS Skytrain rails. Trains depart every 10 minutes from Ratchathewi Railway Station. Previously, passengers alighted at Bang Chak terminus; from there, Wat Dhamma Mongkhol was quite a distance and not a primary attraction. Since 2005, Phra Khanong has been served by the Punnawithi terminus, located half a kilometer from the temple.
