Phra Samut Chedi locally called “Phra Chedi Klang Nam” or “Pagoda in the river”, located opposite Samut Prakan Provincial City Hall on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, was a brilliant white stupa on an island in the middle of the river that greeted foreigners arriving in Thailand over 150 years ago. The Chedi or stupa was originally built by King Rama II on an island partly naturally caused by the accumulation of sand brought down by flood waters, completed by King Rama III and later added its height to 38 meters by King Rama IV who wanted to show all visitors to Thailand that his people were Buddhists. Over the years the river was silted up even more and eventually the island became part of the river’s west bank. It houses 12 sacred relics of Lord Buddha, an image of Buddha “Phra Ham Samut“ in the posture of pacifying the ocean and an image of well-known monk “Phra Chai Wat”. Phra Samut Chedi is presently the proud symbol for Samut Prakarn Province.

Whilst the Chedi itself is am impressive structure in a nice setting with equally interesting further buildings in the area, it is getting here that is the fun, Located on the West Bank of the Chao Phraya River, a ferry trip across the river is needed which departs from Samui Prakan pier and costs B5.5 each way. The ferries run on a very regular basis from before dawn well into the evening. On getting to the other side, pass through the ferry terminals to the roadway out the front and turn right: it is about 500m to the Chedi. A visit should be combined with the walk out to the old river fort as well: in all, makes for an interesting little adventure.