Wichianchot Fort is an important historical monument and a symbolic landmark of Maha Chai City in Samut Sakhon Province. It was constructed in 1828 during the reign of King Rama III (King Nangklao) under royal command, with Phraya Choduek Ratchasethi (Thongchin) appointed as the chief builder. The fort was built to defend the mouth of the Tha Chin River from Vietnamese invasion during the conflict related to Chao Anouvong of Vientiane, reflecting Thailand’s strategic coastal defense during the early Rattanakosin period.

Architecturally, the fort is built of brick and mortar, with walls approximately one cubit wide and about six cubits high, or around three meters. Its distinctive feature is the row of battle positions along the walls, which were designed without guard towers but instead included openings for mounting cannons. Several ancient cast-iron cannons remain today, bearing the British royal crown emblem along with the letters “G R” (George Rex) and the word “BACON,” indicating that these weapons were imported from abroad during that era.

Today, Wichianchot Fort is located in the heart of Maha Chai City, near the Samut Sakhon Provincial Hall and the City Pillar Shrine. Parts of the area have been developed into the Queen’s 60th Birthday Health Park, creating a green and relaxing space for local residents. Although only sections of the fort walls remain—on the northern, southern, and eastern sides—the aged brickwork and large trees growing along the walls give the site a solemn and timeless historical atmosphere.

For visitors and history enthusiasts, a visit to Wichianchot Fort offers more than just photo opportunities with ancient cannons and old city walls. Travelers can easily walk to nearby landmarks such as the Samut Sakhon City Pillar Shrine or the Chao Pho Wichianchot Shrine, a spiritual center for Maha Chai fishermen, and continue exploring the lively atmosphere of Maha Chai Market in a single trip.

Private Car:

• From Bangkok, take Rama 2 Road into Mahachai town center, following signs to the Provincial Hall. The fort is by the river, near the City Pillar Shrine with ample parking.

By Train:

• Get off at Mahachai Railway Station and walk for about 10-15 minutes (approx. 800 meters) through the market towards the shrine.

By Boat:

• If coming from the Tha Chalom side, take the ferry to the Mahachai pier and walk a short distance to the fort.

Best Time to Visit:

• Morning (08:00 - 10:00) or late afternoon (after 16:00) to avoid the heat and get the best lighting for photography.

Recommended Activity:

• After exploring the fort, pay respects at the City Pillar Shrine and Chao Pho Wichian Chot Shrine for good luck.

Exploration:

• Since it is near government offices and local communities, you can park once and explore the fort, the shrine, and the market on foot.

Admission Fee

• Free of charge

Opening Hours

• The outdoor grounds are accessible 24/7.

• Recommended hours: 08:00 – 18:00 for the best visibility and safety.