10 Sacred Temples in Nonthaburi for a Spiritual Getaway
Nonthaburi is known not only for its famous durians but also for its revered temples steeped in cultural significance. If you’re looking for a spiritual escape or a place to offer prayers and seek blessings from sacred figures, Nonthaburi is home too many beautiful sites perfect for a meaningful visit. This guide will take you on a spiritual journey across 10 sacred temples in Nonthaburi—ideal for anyone seeking inner peace, historical insight, or divine guidance.
Sacred Temples in Nonthaburi for Prayers and Blessings
These temples are perfect for worshippers, spiritual travelers, and anyone looking to connect with Buddhist heritage and sacred symbolism.
1. Wat Kamphaeng
Originally named Wat Som Poi, Wat Kamphaeng was founded in 1677 during the reign of King Narai of Ayutthaya. One of its most captivating features is the life-size portrait of King Rama V, where the eyes and feet of the statue appear to follow visitors as they move—an optical illusion that inspires awe.
Here, worshippers can pray to revered figures like Phra Sivali and Thao Wessuwan for prosperity in business and real estate, as well as Lord Ganesha for career success and Ai Khai for good fortune.
2. Wat Prasat
Over 400 years old, Wat Prasat is believed to have been built during the reign of King Prasat Thong. Now recognized as a national historic site, the temple’s unique “Great Ordination Hall” is distinguished by its windowless side walls, an intricately decorated front gable, and a small rear opening for natural light.
The hall is shaped like the hull of a Chinese junk boat, a distinctive Ayutthaya architectural style. Inside, you’ll find stunning murals of the Ten Jataka tales and a centuries-old sermon pulpit. One of its most notable features is a giant 1,000-year-old takian tree—one of Thailand’s largest.
3. Wat Saphan Sung
Formerly known as Wat Sawang Arom, Wat Saphan Sung is renowned for its sacred amulets and protective talismans created by the revered monk Luang Pu Iam. These items were originally crafted to raise funds for temple restorations and offered as tokens of gratitude to donors.
At the front of the ordination hall stands a life-size statue of Luang Pu Iam, where visitors come to pay respects and seek blessings for good fortune and spiritual strength.
4. Wat Bang Chak
Built in 1822, Wat Bang Chak is a Mon-style temple famous for its giant golden praying Buddha in the meditation posture—known as Phra Phuttha Mongkol Chai or “Luang Pho To.” This is the largest seated Buddha in Nonthaburi, positioned majestically by the Chao Phraya River, flanked by two serpentine nagas.
Inside, the temple is adorned with plaster sculptures depicting the Vessantara Jataka and various forms of Ganesha. One of the most unique features is the underground chamber beneath the main chapel, believed to contain sacred relics. Locals believe that crawling through this tunnel brings spiritual merit and fortune.
5. Wat Uthayan
Situated along the peaceful Bangkok Noi canal, Wat Uthayan is known for its tranquil setting. The temple’s highlight is the Golden Boat Vihara dedicated to Luang Pu Perm, where visitors pray for success in business.
Another revered figure here is Luang Pho Khao, an ancient Buddha statue from the U-Thong era. Devotees often ask for blessings in wealth, work, and academics. A local tradition includes offering white sugar to the statue as a token of gratitude when wishes come true.
6. Wat Chomphuwek
This 350-year-old Mon temple combines Thai, Mon, Chinese, Burmese, and Western artistic influences. Its murals depict the Jataka tales and Buddha’s life story in traditional Ayutthaya-style pigments by master artists from Nonthaburi.
A must-see highlight is the delicate stucco of Phra Mae Thorani (Earth Goddess) wringing her hair inside the glass shrine, considered one of the most beautiful depictions in Thailand. Another icon is Phra Mutao, a Mon-style chedi built in 1682 to enshrine sacred relics. The temple was officially designated a national historic site in 1974.
7. Wat Ratprakongtham
Formerly known as Wat Khang Khao (Bat Temple), this historic site dates back to 1713 and houses the longest praying Buddha in Nonthaburi—a 32-meter-long reclining Buddha.
Another key attraction is the Three Holy Relic Stupas, which replicate Thailand’s most revered relics: Phra That Hariphunchai, Phra That Phanom, and Phra Pathom Chedi. Visitors can also find shrines to Luang Pho To Sam Por Kong, hermit sages, and other sacred deities.
8. Wat Chalor
Located along the Bangkok Noi Canal, Wat Chalor was built in 1732 under King Borommakot. According to legend, the king had a dream where an elderly Chinese man requested a temple be built in the shape of a Chinese junk to free spirits lost in a nearby shipwreck.
The highlight is the Suvarnabhumi Swan Boat Ordination Hall, completed in 1983. Inside, the temple features statues from Theravada and Mahayana traditions, as well as sacred Hindu deities.
9. Wat Chonprathan Rangsarit
This peaceful, leafy temple was established in 1959 by M.L. Chuchart Kamphu, then head of the Royal Irrigation Department, inspired by the modern Buddhist teachings of Phra Phayomkalayano. He later invited the monk to lead the temple.
The wide bamboo courtyard is used for sermons and meditation, with regular Dharma talks every Sunday and on important religious holidays. This temple is perfect for those seeking practical Buddhist wisdom in a serene environment.
10. Wat Buakhwan
Originally a modest forest monastery during King Rama V’s reign, Wat Buakhwan became a third-class royal temple in 2008. Its highlight is the beautifully designed cruciform ordination hall, built in 2003, featuring a replica of the Indian Buddha statue from Bodh Gaya.
The temple grounds are surrounded by sculptures of celestial beings and symbolic bells. It’s also home too many sacred statues, including Rahu, Trimurti, Ganesha, and Maha Setthi Wanagot—frequently visited by worshippers seeking blessings for luck and success.
After a full day exploring sacred temples in Nonthaburi, complete your spiritual getaway with a stay at Riverine Place Hotel & Residence—a riverside hotel in Nonthaburi that offers peace, comfort, and SHA Plus-certified hospitality.
Conveniently located near several temples mentioned above, Riverine Place is the perfect base for your pilgrimage. Enjoy beautifully designed river-view rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, gourmet dining, and a wide selection of accommodations—from cozy studio suites to spacious three-bedroom deluxe apartments. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or spiritual group, your stay will be as relaxing as it is memorable.
For bookings or more information, call 02-966-6111 or email reception@riverineplace.com.
References:
- TrueID Travel: 12 Sacred Temples in Nonthaburi. Retrieved on 24 March 2025 from https://travel.trueid.net/detail/L9XXbxPdK2O9.
- Kapook: 10 Must-Visit Temples in Nonthaburi for Spiritual Seekers. Retrieved on 24 March 2025 from https://travel.kapook.com/view284771.html.
