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Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha)

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Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha) (Thailand)

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The Giant Swing, known as Sao Ching Cha, is a religious monument in the heart of Bangkok, situated directly in front of Wat Suthat temple. Constructed in 1784 by order of King Rama I, it originally served a spectacular Brahmin ceremony held in honor of the god Shiva. During this ritual, young men would swing on a massive wooden structure to grab a bag of gold coins suspended from a high pole. Due to numerous fatal accidents, the ceremony was officially discontinued in 1935 during the reign of King Rama VII. The current structure is made of solid teak wood and painted in an animated vermilion red, emphasizing its symbolic role as a gateway to the heavens. Standing at over 21 meters tall, it is one of the most iconic landmarks of the Rattanakosin era. Following a comprehensive restoration in 2006 using six massive teak trunks from northern Thailand, it remains a significant testament to Hindu influences within Thai culture.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262930313028282827272625
Rain mm161447751641651691812782033910

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
This striking historical landmark is a towering outdoor structure that can be freely viewed and admired from the street and the surrounding plaza. It provides a fantastic glimpse into traditional Thai religious heritage.
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Typical hours
Because the structure stands in a public plaza, it is accessible at any time, 24/7, although daytime or early evening visits are best for visibility.
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Photography
Photography is completely unrestricted, and the towering red pillars against the city backdrop provide an excellent contrast for wide-angle shots. Just be mindful of passing traffic.
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Time needed
A typical visit only takes about ten to fifteen minutes, which is enough time to appreciate the monument's scale, snap a few photos, and enjoy the plaza.
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Combine with
It is extremely convenient to pair this sight with a visit to the adjacent Wat Suthat temple, which ranks among the oldest and most impressive temple complexes in Bangkok.
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Getting there
The monument is centrally located in Bangkok's Old City and can be easily accessed via a tuk-tuk, taxi, or a short walk from nearby historical districts.
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Insider tip
Try to visit the area in the late afternoon when the softer sunlight beautifully highlights the bustling red color of the swing against the temple backdrop.

Geography

Coordinates
13.75200, 100.50100

Facts

  • The monument was originally constructed in the year 1784.
  • The Giant Swing has a total height of 21.15 meters.
  • Six teak trees from Phrae province were used for the 2006 restoration.
  • The swinging ceremony was banned in 1935 for safety reasons.
  • The structure symbolizes the Hindu belief in the creation of the world.
  • The vibrant red color represents the sun and divine energy.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Democracy MonumentDemocracy Monument<1 km · NWExplore →
Siam Cement Group HeadquartersSiam Cement Group Headquarters2 km · NExplore →
NonthaburiNonthaburi3 km · NWExplore →
Sea Life Bangkok Ocean WorldSea Life Bangkok Ocean World4 km · NExplore →
Thai Beverage HeadquartersThai Beverage Headquarters6 km · NExplore →
Benchasiri ParkBenchasiri Park8 km · NExplore →
Erawan MuseumErawan Museum10 km · NExplore →
Chao Phraya RiverChao Phraya River11 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha) (12)

Wat Chai Chana Songkhram⛪ religious

Known as the Temple of Victory, this Buddhist sanctuary was built by a prominent military commander to commemorate his successful campaigns.

Wat Phra Phiren⛪ religious

This historic Buddhist temple features a classically ornamented ordination hall and serves as an important spiritual centre for the local community.

San Chao Pho Suea⛪ religious

This heavily aromatic, incense-filled Chinese shrine is highly revered for its deity of the Tiger God, drawing devotees seeking protection and good fortune.

Chalerm Krung Royal Theatre🎭 culture

Originally opened in 1933 as a cinema, this iconic art-deco theatre is now renowned for its spectacular traditional Thai masked dance performances.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-18:00; PH open

Sommot Amon Mak Bridge📍 landmark

Opened in September 1998, this urban bridge provides a modern crossing over the historic canal network of Bangkok's old city.

Wat Thep Thidaram Worawihan📍 landmark

This elegant Buddhist temple is adorned with Chinese porcelain and was once the monastic home of Sunthorn Phu, Thailand's most celebrated poet.

Giant Swing📍 landmark

Standing over 21 metres tall, this iconic red teak frame was formerly used for a spectacular Brahmin swinging ceremony to celebrate the rice harvest.

Bangkok City Hall🏺 historical

Facing the iconic Giant Swing, this grand administrative building functions as the central headquarters for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.

Rommani Nat Park🌳 park

Built on the former grounds of a remand prison, this serene public park still retains sections of the old penitentiary walls and observation watchtowers.

🕒 05:00-21:00

Corrections Museum🏛 museum

Situated within a former high-security prison, this macabre museum displays historical penal artifacts and traditional Thai disciplinary equipment.

🕒 closed

Trok Mor Morning Market🎭 culture

A lively traditional morning market tucked in a narrow alley near the Giant Swing offering fresh produce and street food.

🕒 Mo-Su 05:00-10:00

Klongthom Center🎭 culture

A large, bustling market complex renowned for its wide array of electronics, hardware, and vintage goods.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Giant Swing?
It is a monumental old swing structure in front of Wat Suthat temple.
Can you still swing?
No, swinging has been banned for a long time due to safety reasons.
What is nearby?
Wat Suthat temple is directly behind it and is very worth visiting.
How long does a stop take?
A 15-minute photo stop is enough.
Do I need a ticket?
The swing can be viewed for free from the street.
Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha): where is it located?
Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha) is located in Thailand.
Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha): what is there to see?
Highlights include Wat Chai Chana Songkhram, Wat Phra Phiren, San Chao Pho Suea.
Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Giant Swing (Sao Ching Cha): why is it worth visiting?
The Giant Swing, known as Sao Ching Cha, is a religious monument in the heart of Bangkok, situated directly in front of Wat Suthat temple.
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