The Phanthai Norasing Shrine is located in Moo 3, at the mouth of the Khlong Khok Kham river in the 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.

• Key event: During a royal voyage on the barge *Ekachai* along the winding Khlong Khok Kham canal, Phanthai Norasing attempted to steer the vessel with the utmost care. Despite his efforts, he was unable to avoid an obstacle, causing the bow of the royal barge to strike a large branch and plunge into the water.

• Punishment according to palace law: Since Phanthai Norasing knew that according to palace law a helmsman whose actions led to the breaking of the prow of the royal barge could be punished with death, he asked the king to 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. It housed the severed head of Phanthai Norasing and the broken piece of the prow of the royal barge. Later, His Royal Highness Prince Bhanubandhu Yugala had a new shrine built, featuring a six-legged, elevated platform. Prince Bhanubandhu Yugala, 1950

Sights and places of worship

• Effigy: A life-size statue – cast in bronze or carved from fragrant sandalwood – depicting him steering a boat.

• Common votive offerings: It is customary to offer boxing gloves, boat oars, or figures of fighting cocks, as historical accounts indicate that he had a great interest in boxing and cockfighting.

• Further information or advice on travel planning can be found on the website of the municipality of Phanthai Norasing.

General information and opening hours

• Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (some sources state 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM).

• Contact numbers: 034-871578 (office), 034-871577 (amulet/sacred room).

• Getting there: Parking is available; alternatively, you can arrive by bus – take line 105 or 68 and get off near Rama II Road.