Phra Samut Chedi Annual Worship Fair
Important traditions of the people of Samut Prakan
นมัสการ
History of the Phra Samut Chedi Worship Fair
Phra Samut Chedi is an important sacred landmark and a spiritual center for the people of Samut Prakan. It appears prominently in both the provincial slogan and emblem. The chedi is located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, directly opposite the Samut Prakan City Hall. Construction began during the reign of King Rama II, but was completed during the reign of King Rama III. In the past, locals commonly referred to it as “Phra Chedi Klang Nam” or the Pagoda in the Water because the original construction site was once an island surrounded entirely by water. The original structure of Phra Samut Chedi featured a twelve-angled base.
Later, King Rama IV visited the site and observed the condition of the chedi. He wished to elevate the structure so that it would be clearly visible to foreign vessels entering the kingdom. His Majesty therefore instructed craftsmen to model the new design after the straw-stack chedi in Ayutthaya, and appointed Krom Muen Ratchasiwikornd as the chief architect to construct the new “straw-stack–style” chedi over the original one.
In addition, the King ordered the construction of:
a Chinese-style pavilion
a candle tower
a bell tower
a vihara (ordination hall)
a Buddha image in the Pacifying the Ocean posture
along with mooring posts around the riverbank surrounding the chedi.
His Majesty also brought twelve relics of the Buddha from the Grand Palace and had them ceremonially transported by water procession, in accordance with ancient royal tradition, to be enshrined inside the chedi. A grand celebration was held, which later evolved into an annual festival that continues to this day.
The Worship Ceremony of Phra Samut Chedi
On the waning moon, the 2nd night of the 11th month, Buddhist devotees—both men and women—gather to help sew a large red cloth to be draped over Phra Samut Chedi. The sewing is usually completed within two days. On the waning moon, the 5th night of the 11th month, the committee ceremonially places the cloth onto a palanquin mounted on a vehicle, which is then paraded around the city. The procession includes schools, government agencies, and private organizations, before the red cloth is transferred onto a ceremonial boat that travels along the Chao Phraya River.
The procession continues to Phra Pradaeng District, where the cloth is placed on a vehicle and paraded around the town so the local people can join in the merit-making. It is then returned to the boat and brought back to Phra Samut Chedi, where a ritual circumambulation is performed around the pagoda before the red cloth is finally draped over it. In the past, boats could circle around Phra Samut Chedi, and young men and women would engage in lively boat-song performances. Today, since boats can no longer circle the pagoda, the festivities have become less vibrant.
After the procession of the sacred red cloth concludes, the celebrations continue with various entertainments and stalls for seven days and seven nights. Before returning home, visitors never forget to apply gold leaf and pay homage to Phra Samut Chedi. On the night of the waning moon, the 7th night, festivities continue throughout the night.
Activities at the Phra Samut Chedi Worship Festival
The event features booths from both government and private sectors, along with traditional festivities such as movies, music performances, charity raffles, food and product stalls, and various amusement rides. On the morning of the waning moon (8th day), there is also an exciting rowing boat competition. It is considered one of the few fully traditional temple fairs near Bangkok that still remains today. Throughout the festival, the Phra Samut Chedi is beautifully illuminated with decorative lights every year.
Travel
- Address: Moo 3, Suksawat Road, Pak Khlong Bang Pla Kot Subdistrict, Phra Samut Chedi District, Samut Prakan Province
Opening Hours: 07:00–18:00
Google Map: https://goo.gl/maps/H6CqFxZFSdSdon
