Dhevasathan Phra Amarin

The Phra Amarin Devasathan Project is a sanctuary development situated at Soi Anamai Ngam Charoen Intersection 1-3 in the Tha Kham Subdistrict of Bangkok’s Bang Khun Thian District. Encompassing a total area of 4,822 square meters, the project was founded through the dedication and faith of its owner to create a place for paying homage and worship to Lord Indra.

The conceptual landscape design draws inspiration from the literary work “Sombat Amarin Kham Klon” by Chao Phraya Khlang (Hon), a distinguished poet of the early Rattanakosin period. This poetic composition, descriptive in nature and sharing beliefs akin to those in the “Traiphum Phra Ruang” (Three Worlds According to King Ruang), portrays the splendor of Trāyastriṃśa Heaven—the second level of heaven perched atop Mount Sumeru. The sanctuary’s main building is a replica of the “Prasat Phra Paichayon Palace,” the abode of Lord Indra. Surrounding it are Dhammasala pavilions, which serve as gathering places for deities to listen to the teachings of the Buddha.

In terms of landscape architecture, the literary work was interpreted into the project’s master plan, circulation routes, and the placement of various auxiliary (multi-purpose) buildings. This includes integrating landscape architectural elements within the hardscape features throughout the project. For instance, the ground patterns encircling the sanctuary emulate the waves of the Great Sritandorn Ocean, the dwelling place of the Ananta fish and its followers. 

Elements of Thai architectural ornamentation were also incorporated into the design of garden pots and seating areas, among others. By crafting a simulated environment and strategically positioning different types of gardens around the sanctuary, the spaces are arranged according to the directions of the five parks mentioned in the literary work : “Miksawan Garden” to the north, “Parusakawan Garden” to the south , “Nandavana Garden” to the east, “Chitralada Garden” to the west. and “Mahanop Garden” to the northeast.