Wat Ratchasittharam

Wat Ratchasittharam Ratchaworawihan is a second-class royal Buddhist temple in Wat Arun Subdistrict, Bangkok Yai District, on the Thonburi side of Bangkok. Originally called Wat Plub from the Ayutthaya period, it was restored and elevated by Kings Rama I, Rama II and Rama III. It is notable as a historic centre of Vipassana (Kammatthana) meditation under Somdet Phra Sangharaja Suk Kai Thuean and for its early Rattanakosin architecture, murals and royal connections.

Visitors can expect a quiet, active royal temple compound away from major tourist crowds, with an ordination hall (ubosot), viharns, chedis, historic murals, Buddha images and meditation halls. The grounds are shaded with mature trees and traditional monastic buildings along Khlong Bangkok Yai near Itsaraphap Road. Visitors can walk around the courtyard, view architecture and artwork, observe monastic life and pay respect at shrines. The atmosphere is calm and suitable for sightseeing, photography and quiet contemplation.

Originally Wat Plub, believed to date to the late Ayutthaya period. Restored during the reign of King Rama I, and later patronized by King Rama II who was ordained there and King Rama III who undertook major restoration. Served as residence of Somdet Phra Sangharaja Suk Kai Thuean, patriarch and renowned master of Vipassana Kammatthana meditation, establishing the temple as a key meditation lineage centre in the early Rattanakosin period.

A second-class royal temple (Ratchaworawihan) of the Mahanikaya sect, significant as a centre for Buddhist study and Vipassana meditation practice. Revered for its association with Thai royalty and the Sangharaja, and for preserving early Rattanakosin religious art, architecture and meditation traditions that continue to be practiced by monks and lay visitors.