“Sacred things about the city of Chan alongside the Shrine of King Taksin”
Chanthaburi City Pillar Shrine is regarded as a sacred landmark of Chanthaburi Province, standing alongside the Shrine of King Taksin the Great. It is an important historical and spiritual site of the province. The shrine is located in front of the Taksin Military Camp (now the headquarters of the Royal Thai Marine Corps). It houses the city pillar, which symbolizes the founding of the city and serves as a spiritual center for the people of Chanthaburi. It is believed that King Taksin the Great originally established the city pillar shrine when he marched to capture Chanthaburi in B.E. 2310. The purpose was to gather manpower and provisions before leading the mission to reclaim the fallen capital of Ayutthaya.
The current City Pillar Shrine is a building featuring traditional Thai four-portico Jaturamuk architecture constructed with brick and plaster, adorned with chofah gable finials, bairaka leaf ornaments, and a prang stupa-like spire on top. Inside, it houses the City Pillar, which is a stone stele, and a newly cast figure of the City Pillar Deity Chao Por Lak Muang. Furthermore, there is a blend of Chinese elements in the surrounding area, reflecting the cultural and ethnic diversity of the Chanthaburi residents who come to worship for prosperity, good fortune, and safety.
The City Pillar Shrine is open to the public for worship every day, from early morning until evening. The atmosphere becomes particularly vibrant during important festivals or significant dates related to King Taksin the Great. People commonly come to light incense and candles, offer garlands, or fulfill vows with traditional outdoor film screenings (Nang Klang Plaeng) according to their beliefs. During regular times, visitors can experience a calm and shady ambiance due to the large trees surrounding the area, making it suitable for relaxation
How to Get There
- Private Car: From Sukhumvit Road, turn right at Rai Ya Intersection onto Raksak Chamoon Road, continue for about 6 kilometers, then turn left onto Tha Luang Road and proceed for about 600 meters. The City Pillar Shrine is located in front of Taksin Camp and opposite the King Taksin the Great Shrine.
- Public Transportation: Travel by public bus to Chanthaburi city, then take a local shared taxi (Songthaew) or a motorcycle taxi.
- Walking/Cycling: The shrine is conveniently located not far from the city center, making it easily accessible.
Travel Tips
- Best Visiting Seasons: Can be visited daily. It is recommended to visit in the morning or evening to avoid the intense heat.
- Attire: Visitors should dress respectfully, as it is a sacred site.
- Veneration: Offerings, flowers, incense, and candles can be purchased from shops near the shrine.
- Activity: It is highly recommended to also pay homage at the King Taksin the Great Shrine located directly opposite, for complementary blessings.
- Travel Planning: Convenient parking is available near the shrine.
Admission Fee:
- No Admission Fee
Opening Hours:
- Open for visits and veneration daily: 05:30 AM - 08:00 PM
- Please check directly with the shrine for any changes during festivals.