Phanthai Norasing Shrine, Phanthai Norasing Subdistrict | Samut Sakhon

Phanthai Norasing Shrine, Phanthai Norasing Subdistrict | Samut Sakhon Province
The Phanthai Norasing Shrine is located in Moo 3, at the mouth of Khlong Khok Kham in Phanthai Norasing Subdistrict, Mueang Samut Sakhon District, Samut Sakhon Province. It serves as a memorial to the integrity and loyalty of Phanthai Norasing, the helmsman of the royal barge *Ekachai* during the reign of King Sanphet VIII (known as Phra Chao Suea, or the "Tiger King") of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
History and Significance
• Key Event: During a royal journey by the barge *Ekachai* along the winding Khlong Khok Kham, Phanthai Norasing attempted to steer the vessel with the utmost care. Despite his efforts, he could not avoid an obstacle, causing the bow of the royal barge to strike a large tree branch and break off into the water.
• Penalty under Palace Law: Aware that, according to the Palace Law, a helmsman whose actions resulted in the breaking of the royal barge’s bow was subject to the death penalty, Phanthai Norasing requested that the King carry out his execution.
• Construction of the Shrine: King Sanphet VIII (Phra Chao Suea) commissioned a simple, elevated shrine (*san phiang ta*) to commemorate the event, housing the severed head of Phanthai Norasing and the broken piece of the royal barge’s bow. Later, a new shrine—featuring a six-legged elevated platform—was constructed by His Royal Highness Prince Bhanubandhu Yugala. Prince Bhanuphand Yugala, 1950
Points of Interest and Places of Worship
• Effigy: A life-sized statue—cast in bronze or carved from fragrant sandalwood—depicting him in the act of steering a boat.
• Common Votive Offerings: It is customary to offer boxing gloves, boat oars, or figurines of fighting cocks, as historical accounts suggest he had a keen interest in boxing and cockfighting.
• For further details or trip planning, please visit the website of the Phanthai Norasing Subdistrict Municipality.
General Information and Opening Hours
• Opening Hours: Daily, 08:00 – 18:00 (some sources state 06:00 – 18:00).
• Contact Numbers: 034-871578 (Office), 034-871577 (Amulet/Sacred Objects Room).
• Getting There: Parking is available; alternatively, you may travel by bus—take line 105 or 68 and disembark near Rama II Road.