Phra Phuttha Sihing Shrine Nakhon Si Thammarat is located between the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Hall and the Provincial Court, along Ratchadamnoen Road. The shrine is a traditional Thai-style building constructed specifically to enshrine Phra Phuttha Sihing, the city’s most revered Buddha image with deep historical significance.

According to local legends, Phra Phuttha Sihing was brought from Lanka (Sri Lanka) and first enshrined in Nakhon Si Thammarat before being transferred to other important cities later on. This makes the image here especially significant as the earliest place associated with Phra Phuttha Sihing in Thailand.

The artistic style of this Buddha image is known as Khanom Tom art, a local style unique to Nakhon Si Thammarat. Distinctive features include a round face with a gentle smile, a robust body, and the posture of subduing Mara, seated in the diamond meditation position on a lotus base. This style clearly differs from Sukhothai or Chiang Saen Buddhist art.

Inside the shrine, the interior is calm and simple, decorated with mural paintings depicting Buddhist stories and the legend of Phra Phuttha Sihing. During the annual Songkran Festival, the Buddha image is ceremonially moved to the Sanam Na Mueang (City Square), allowing people to perform water-pouring rituals for blessings. This tradition remains an important cultural practice for the people of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

• By private car: Drive along Ratchadamnoen Road toward the Provincial Hall. The shrine is located next to the Provincial Hall and the Provincial Court. Parking is available along the roadside or at Sanam Na Mueang.

• By public transport: Local songthaews on the Sanam Kila – Hua Thanon route and traditional three-wheeled taxis (Hua Kop) provide convenient access throughout the day.

• Dress modestly, as this is a sacred religious site.

• Avoid using flash photography inside the shrine.

• After visiting, you can easily walk to nearby attractions such as the City Pillar Shrine and the Old City Wall.

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:30 – 16:30