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Wat Rat Prachong Tham: Nonthaburi's Largest Reclining Buddha, Living up to its Name in Bang Yai District, Nonthaburi, Near Bangkok
Wat Rat Prachong Tham, or formerly known by locals as 'Wat Khang Khao' (Bat Temple), is a public temple under the Maha Nikaya order. It is located in Moo 1, Ban Khlong Om, Sao Thong Hin Subdistrict, Bang Yai District, Nonthaburi Province. This temple serves not only as a spiritual center for local residents but also as an interesting destination for pilgrims and those who appreciate Thai history and architecture.
It is believed that Wat Rat Prachong Tham was built around 1713 CE during the late Ayutthaya period. Although it was abandoned for a period, it was restored and developed anew in 1950 CE by Dr. Daeng Phumlek and local villagers. It later received the Wisungkhamsima (royal decree for temple boundary) in 1962 CE, allowing the temple to once again become a spiritual refuge and an important place for religious ceremonies.
Sacred Objects and Must-See Highlights
The Reclining Buddha (Luang Pho Phra Non): The heart of this temple is the magnificent Reclining Buddha image, measuring 32 meters in length, revered as the largest Reclining Buddha in Nonthaburi Province. It is enshrined in the beautiful Phra Non Hall. The soles of its feet bear the auspicious chakra symbol, characteristic of a Bodhisattva with great merit, as described in ancient texts.
Replicas of 3 Sacred Relics: On the roof of the Phra Non Hall, there are also replicas of three important stupas from Thailand: Phra That Hariphunchai, Phra That Phanom, and Phra Pathom Chedi. This allows Buddhists to pay homage and make merit without having to travel to distant regions.
Luang Pho To (Sampokong): Inside the Ubosot (ordination hall), resides Luang Pho To, also known as Sampokong, a sacred Buddha image in the Maravijaya posture. It is highly revered and renowned for granting blessings for success in business and good fortune, especially among Chinese merchants.
Other Sacred Objects: Furthermore, within the temple, there are many other sacred objects awaiting visitors to pay homage and seek blessings, such as Luang Pho Tan Jai, Luang Pho Rap Chok, Luang Pho Som Pratthana, Phra Upakut, Phra Sivali, Luang Pho To Phromrangsi, and Por Pu Ruesi (Hermit Grandfather).
The temple is located by the old Chao Phraya River. You can sit and enjoy noodles here; there's an auntie's shop that has been selling for many years. Wat Rat Prachong Tham is open daily for visits and worship from 07:00 AM to 06:00 PM. It's a bit deep inside, almost next to Wat Sao Thong Hin. Visitors can come to make merit, pay homage to Buddha, seek blessings, or even participate in buffalo and cattle redemption activities to enhance good fortune in life. If you are looking for a cultural attraction near Bangkok that is rich in history and tranquility, Wat Rat Prachong Tham is an option not to be missed.
