Thailand
More than just a place of worship, Wat Saman Rattanaram is a prominent attraction in the province of Chachoengsao. Situated along the Bang Pakong River, the temple is nestled on an island in the Bang Kaeo sub-district. Its beauty is indescribable. A must-visit.
The temple, in the past
According to folklore, the temple was built by two widows from the Khun Saman Chinpracha family to honor the merits of their deceased husbands. Being part of the elite, this lineage is highly respected in the region. Locally, the sanctuary is still referred to as Wat Mai Khun Saman.
Today, a modern and captivating sanctuary
Wat Saman Rattanaram is almost always bustling with visitors on open days. It continues to expand, hosting not only religious buildings but also museums and various shops. Many restaurants and bars are established nearby. Visitors enjoy boat rides on the river and delicious dishes from floating markets.
The monastery caters to all ages. Similar to amusement parks, the temple is adorned with life-size figurines of famous movie and cartoon characters. Transformers, Deadpool, Hulk, Spiderman, Doraemon, Pikachu, Mickey Mouse…
Wat Saman Rattanaram, a temple of two religions
Wat Saman Rattanaram is an active Hindu and Buddhist sanctuary.
Monuments and rituals related to Hinduism
The temple is known for its statues of gigantic and original divinities. Its entrance is guarded by an effigy of Rahu, the god of eclipses. A few steps away, you'll find a monumental statue of Indra, the king of gods, riding a three-headed elephant.
The star of the monastery is the pink effigy of Ganesha, a Hindu god with an elephantine face. At 22 by 16 meters, it's one of the largest statues of this supreme being in Thailand.
You will often see people whispering to the rat statues next to the effigy of Ganesha. For Hindus, these rodent images are personifications of the deity itself. They make their wishes in the presence of these objects of worship, believing wholeheartedly that their wishes will come true someday.
Similar to Ganesha, a titanic representation of Brahma, another Indian deity, proudly sits above a museum. This establishment is exceptionally intriguing, showcasing idyllic and consecrated objects related to Hinduism.
Buddhism honored
Gigantic statues of Naga (water deities in serpent form) adorn this temple, enhancing its beauty. These mystical beings are renowned for sheltering Buddha during a torrential rain.
Within the temple grounds, a small Chinese spiritual center worships Bodhisattva Guanyin, the goddess of mercy, a significant figure in Mahayana Buddhism. Right next to it, an immense statue is also erected in honor of this deity. The design is elegant, and the color combinations delight the eyes.
Further in the opposite direction of this center, an elegant Ubosot houses a seated image of Buddha, its base adorned with floral bouquets. A replica of the Golden Rock and the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda from Myanmar are visible near the parking area.
Things to know before visiting the temple
The best time to visit
Visiting Wat Saman Rattanaram is recommended between January and February or November and December. During these periods, rainfall is less in Chachoengsao province, and temperatures hover around 24 °C.
How to get there?
The monastery is 90 kilometers from Bangkok. From the city, you can take a bus from the Eastern Bus Terminal or a train from Hualamphong or Chachoengsao Junction stations.
Taking a taxi is highly recommended. Make sure to negotiate the fare with your driver.
Entrance fee and opening hours
There is no admission fee to visit the temple. The sanctuary is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Visitor guidelines
Proper attire is required throughout the sanctuary. Cameras are allowed in the temple. Capture your visit freely.
Nearby attractions
The area surrounding the temple is a veritable tourist site. A few kilometers from the temple, you can visit many well-known attractions in Thailand:
- Sand Castle, Chachoengsao
- Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan
- Wat Pak Nam
- Wat Pho Bang Khla
- Khlong Khuean Ganesh International Park
- Wat Chin Prachasamoson
