Wat Mongkol Nimit

THAILAND, Phuket

The temple is located in the middle of the town and is therefore known locally as Wat Klang (Middle Temple). It was built in 1880, probably by the governor at the time. King Rama V (reigned 1868–1910) and King Rama VII (reigned 1925–1935) held their royal ceremonial bath of purification at this temple. In 1885 the temple was designated a Buddhist temple zone and the ordination hall was built. In 1953 it was listed as a third class royal temple.
The principal temple buildings are the ordination hall and main hall. There are also a few Thai-style stupas. The ordination hall is 30 m high, 20 m wide, and 38 m long. The roof consists of five overlapping roof sections and triple-tier eaves, supported by columns to form colonnades. The pediment is decorated with a royal emblem in the center, above which there is a stupa depicted as emitting rays. There is a large golden garuda carved in the lower section of the pediment. Heavenly beings and vine patterns in filigree can be seen below the pediment. The capitals of the columns are decorated with lotus stems. The door and window panels are in teak and carved with vine patterns. The gateway is surmounted by a highly ornate and intricate pyramidal stupa. A seated Sakyamuni Buddha with hands in bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra is enshrined within the ordination hall.