Wat Kalayanamit

Wat Kalayanamit Woramahawihan is a second-class royal Buddhist temple on the Thonburi bank of the Chao Phraya River in Wat Kanlaya, Thon Buri District, Bangkok. Founded in 1825 by Chao Phraya Nikonbodin during King Rama III's reign, it is renowned for housing Luang Pho To, one of Bangkok's largest seated Buddha images, and Thailand's largest bronze bell. The temple blends Thai and Chinese architectural styles and remains an active place of worship.

Visitors can expect a riverside temple compound with a large ordination hall and viharn housing the massive seated Buddha image Luang Pho To (Phra Buddha Trai Rattana Nayok). The grounds include a distinctive bell tower housing Thailand's largest bronze bell, Chinese-influenced architecture, courtyards along the Chao Phraya River, and active worship areas where locals make merit. The setting offers views across the river toward Bangkok's old city.

Founded in 1825 by Chao Phraya Nikonbodin (To), a wealthy Thai-Chinese trader and close associate of King Rama III, who donated his residence and land to build the temple. King Rama III granted royal patronage and named it Wat Kalayanamit, meaning 'temple of the good friend'. The principal Buddha image, Luang Pho To, was built in the same period and is one of the largest in Bangkok. The temple was elevated to a second-class royal temple (Woramahawihan).

An important Theravada Buddhist royal temple and active place of worship for the local Thai-Chinese community in Thon Buri. Revered for Luang Pho To, believed by devotees to bring good fortune and safe travel. The temple reflects early Rattanakosin period cultural exchange with its Chinese-style decorations and remains a center for merit-making, religious ceremonies, and traditional festivals.