The Fine Arts Department has budgeted 99 million baht to renovate nine Buddhist monasteries to mark 70 years of His Majesty the King's enthronement, according to director-general Anan Chuchote.
Mr Anan said the department was assigned by Culture Minister Vira Rojpojchanarat to choose nine temples for refurbishment. The selection of the two monasteries in Bangkok and seven in other provinces was based on architectural values and other significant features.
The two in Bangkok are Wat Ratchanaddaram Voraviharn in Phra Nakhon district, which will be upgraded with 43 million baht; and Wat Dusitaram Voraviharn in Bangkok Noi district (5.1 million baht).
The other seven temples are: Wat Yai Suwannaram Voraviharn in Muang district, Phetchaburi (12 million baht); Wat Paichayon Polasep Ratchavoraviharn in Phra Pradaeng district of Samut Prakan (8.4 million baht); Wt Phrasrirattana Mahathat in Muang district, Suphan Buri (7.9 million baht); Wat Salapun Voraviharn, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district, Ayutthaya (13.8 million baht); Wat Prasart in Muang district, Chiang Mai (1.9 million baht); Wat Phochai in Dong Luang district, Mukdahan (1.4 million baht); and, Wat Chatthansanan in Tak Bai district, Narathiwat (4.7 million baht).
His Majesty the King has reigned since June 9, 1946. The renovation is to be completed this year, said Mr Anan.