Overview
- The Giant Swing (Sao Chingcha) is a 21.15 m red, swing-shaped religious structure in the Phra Nakhon District of Bangkok.
- Built in 1784 by King Rama I, it originally stood in front of the Devasathan Hindu shrine and was used in Brahmin ceremonies.
- Now a major tourist landmark, it sits in front of Wat Suthat.
History
- Damaged by lightning during King Rama II’s reign; restored and relocated in 1920.
- The Triyampavai–Tripavai swing ceremony was held annually until 1935, when it was stopped after fatal accidents.
- Major restoration in 2005–2006 used massive teak pillars; rededicated in 2007.
- Original timbers are preserved in the Bangkok National Museum.
- Proposed, along with Wat Suthat, as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Surroundings
- Wat Suthat Thep Wararam – important Buddhist temple with a revered Buddha image.
- Tiger God Shrine – historic Chinese shrine for fortune and fertility.
- Lan Kon Mueng Plaza – public space for recreation.
- Devasathan – Thailand’s most important Hindu shrine with sanctuaries for Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, and Ganesha.
- Vishnu Temple – built in 1982 to mark Thai–Indian friendship.
Swing Ceremony
- Rooted in Tamil Hindu hymns (Thiruvempavai and Thiruppavai).
- Re-enacted Hindu mythology of Shiva’s descent and the Nagas’ celebration.
- Brahmins would swing to grab a bag of coins from a pillar.
In Popular Culture
Appears in Mario Kart Tour and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe as part of the Bangkok Rush course.
