Wat Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakhon Pathom province boasts not just the tremendous stupa that it is named after but also one of Thailand's largest temple fairs.
While the Phu Khao Thong (Golden Mount) fair at Wat Saket in Bangkok has been cancelled due to the pandemic, the annual fair at Phra Pathom Chedi is taking place from now until Nov 5.
Apart from making merit and paying respect to the sacred giant pagoda and Phra Ruang Rotchanarit, the standing Buddha image that is highly revered by the locals, you will get to enjoy a variety of entertainment as well as shopping a plethora of food and goods every afternoon until late in the night. For food lovers, in particular, this temple fair is a must-visit.
This year, fair-goers are also invited to take pictures of the event with their mobile phones and submit the best shots to a photo contest. The winners will receive cash prizes ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 baht.
For safety reasons, this year all fair-goers are required to wear a face mask and pass a temperature check before entering the area. Hand sanitising gel will be provided at every shop and stall.
Wat Phra Pathom Chedi is about 50km from Bangkok. For those who do not drive or do not want to bother hunting for a parking spot, use passenger vans from either of Bangkok's two southern bus terminals or Bang Wa BTS station. Another option is to take the train from Bang Sue railway station. Nakhon Pathom train station is just a short walk from the grand pagoda. However, you must make sure you leave the fair in time for the last van or train.
For more information, visit the temple's Facebook page.
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