Photograph of Water Gate B.E. 2513

“Water Gate” is a district and intersection in the Ratchathewi area of Bangkok, Thailand. It serves as a major intersection connecting Petchaburi Road, Ratchadamri Road, and Ratchaprarop Road. Located near CentralWorld, a prominent business district in Bangkok, it experiences heavy traffic throughout the day. Additionally, it is the location of the Pratu Nam water gate, a canal pier for passenger boats on Khlong Saen Saeb, situated beneath the Rama VIII Bridge.

The name “Water Gate” originates from the Pratu Nam Saopatumwanaram Royal Palace, or Pratu Nam Saopatumwanaram Water Gate, located nearby. It was commissioned by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) through the Ministry of Agriculture in 1905 (B.E. 2448) to regulate water from Khlong Saen Saeb for agricultural use and transportation purposes. The water gates constructed during the same period include Pratu Nam Saopatumwanaram, Pratu Nam Bang Khanak, and Pratu Nam Tha Khai.

In addition to its historical significance, Water Gate is a well-known dining area with various restaurants offering different cuisines, such as grilled pork skewers, fish maw soup, and fresh spring rolls. Some of these eateries have received recognition from prestigious guides like the Michelin Guide.

History:
City Development During the reign of King Chulalongkorn, the digging of the Khlong Saen Saeb canal began, leading to the development of transportation networks toward the eastern urban areas. This resulted in an increased population settling along the canal. In 2410 B.E. (1867 AD), Wat Patum Wanaram Ratchaworawihan was constructed as the central point of the community. Many residents, particularly immigrants from the Makasan area, established homes along the eastern side of the Water Gate district.

“Chalerm Phra Cinema,” located on Ratchaprarop Road near Pratu Nam, was later renovated and renamed as “Muang Thong Cinema.” In this picture, there is still no Intra Hotel present.

Thanks image from JiMaluangnont and Bruce-Bangkkok1966