Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

This is primarily a place of worship and only secondarily a tourist attraction, a fact reflected in the behavior of visitors. The shrines encompass far more than just Vishnu himself; they include Lakshmi, Shiva, Ganesha, Durga, Radha Krishna, Rama, Sita, Hanuman, and Buddha, each adorned with flowers, lamps, and vibrant ornaments. Carvings cover the walls and pillars. Those coming from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok's temple district will find the tranquility here to be a world apart.

If possible, try to participate in a ritual rather than just wandering around. Reviewers report experiencing an Aarti ceremony at 7 a.m. and, in one case, the recitation of the Goddess's 1008 names—a visit that absolutely justifies the trip to Charoen Rat. The infrastructure is good: clean restrooms, ample parking, and friendly staff. Dress appropriately, as you would at any temple in Thailand, and bring water, as it can get very hot.