Wat Prasat (Prasat Temple)

Wat Prasat was built during the reign of King Narai the Great (during the late Ayutthaya period). The Ubosot, or Temple hall, boasts sophisticated craftsmanship: the upper part features a divine god riding a mythic bird-beast (a Garuda), and the finial is decorated in the Mon style, with a royal lion featured beside the finial.The reason behind the unusual shape of the building is that the shape easily allows cool air to replace hotter air as it rises. The murals here, originating from the late Ayutthaya period, are the works of the most respected artists in the province. They are currently the oldest paintings in Nonthaburi. As the temple has successfully preserved much of its original art and decor, it serves as a resource for the study of Thai art.The temple is located on the Bang Kruai-SaiNoi Road, Tambon Bang Krang. To get there, if taking a boat, the temple can be reached following a two-kilometer walk through fruit orchards from the pier. A more convenient method, by car, is to board a ferry from Nonthaburi Pier, then an open-air taxi on the Bang Yai-Tha Nam line. The stop is near WatChaloemPhraKiat.The temple is open daily from 8.00 am-5.00 pm.