I have worn out many shoes wandering the streets taking photos. However, I am happy to report that the photo above was taken in my bare feet from the edge of my living room balcony. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is home to the ‘Big Buddha’ found West of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. The Buddha was constructed in 2021, although the Royal Wat is dated back to 1610.

Like many locations in Thailand there is an alternative name, or spelling of this landmark, ‘Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen’. I took this photo as a huge rain cloud swept towards my apartment. I have taken many images of the Buddha from my home, but this is one of my favourite, as the ominous rain clouds add a character and make the statue ‘pop’ from the background.

The Canals and the Bridges…

There are many published images taken from this location at, Wat Chantharam Worawihan. The best angle is from a wobbling boat landing, so a fast shutter speed is needed to keep everything sharp. A longer zoom would have been very helpful, and one day I may spend some time cleaning power lines and communication posts out of the background. In that I have just purchased a new laptop the lens may have to wait! One option I have not yet explored is to navigate around the Buddha by boat, which is a very viable tourist option.

Tha Phra MRT Train Station

One view of the Buddha that is worth a walk is from The Phra MRT train station. I purchased a ticket and set up station at the end of the platform. Gear wise I could have used a taller tripod and a longer lens, but there is always something else you need or want. The station’s security team were quite patient and after asking why I was there, left me alone to take my photos. My home can be seen just to the left of the Big Buddha, at the top of the apartment building that looks like a set of uneven steps.

What’s Next?

There are many spots that offer spectacular views of Wat Paknam. However, as you get closer the views disappear giving opportunities for ‘sneak peaks’ through the urban alleys and canals. In addition, if you avoid the busy weekends, the Wat is a peaceful location to meditate and chill. So yes, I will continue making a project out of this fantastic landmark, which has a personal touch as I can see it from my bedroom window. Feel free to drop me a note and say hello, and if you want to to take a photo from my balcony please PM me, I’ll make sure the kettle is on!

Keep Clicking, Chris xxx