Wat Suan Pan is located near the Clock Tower Intersection in Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat. It is a temple affiliated with the Thammayut Nikaya order. The temple was established in 1899 (B.E. 2442) and was granted Wisungkhamsima in September 1982 (B.E. 2525). Originally, the area belonged to Phra Suea Mueang Subdistrict before being incorporated into Nai Mueang Subdistrict and the Nakhon Si Thammarat Municipality.

The original site of Wat Suan Pan was once part of the royal palace of the King or Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat. The land is a naturally elevated mound known as “Kramom Khok,” which is believed to have formed over 900 years ago. In the past, parts of this mound were leveled to construct the palace, while the area where the temple now stands was left untouched and used as a royal elephant stable. Covering approximately 50 rai, the site contained three elephant shelters. Due to traditional beliefs that land associated with the living, birth, and death of royal elephants was unsuitable for human residence, the area was abandoned and left deserted for a long period.

During the reign of King Rama V, Phra Rattanathatchamuni (Muang Priyan) recognized that the former royal elephant stable had become a neglected area located near the provincial hall and courthouse, which was not visually appropriate for the city. As the government had no plans to utilize the land, he initiated the establishment of a temple under the Thammayut Nikaya order and named it Wat Suan Pan. After Phra Rattanathatchamuni passed away in 1934 (B.E. 2477), his disciples built a miniature Sri Lankan–style chedi within the temple as a memorial honoring his virtue and gratitude. This chedi remains standing at the temple today.

Wat Suan Pan serves as an important center for Buddhist learning and propagation in Nakhon Si Thammarat and features two prominent religious structures: the preaching hall and the ordination hall.

The preaching hall, located on the northern side of the temple, features elegant traditional Thai architecture. Inside enshrines the temple’s sacred Buddha image known as “Phra Mit,” a bronze standing Buddha statue covered with layers of gold leaf, reflecting the deep faith and devotion of local Buddhists.

The ordination hall, situated on the southern side, is an exquisitely beautiful religious structure. Its interior is adorned with Western-style mural paintings created by Naep Thichinpong, a highly respected artist of Nakhon Si Thammarat. In addition to depicting the life of the Buddha, the murals also illustrate scenes of local life in the past, including an important historical event when King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) once stayed at this temple. This makes Wat Suan Pan not only a religious site but also a valuable historical and cultural landmark of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

• By Private Car: From Sanam Na Mueang or Ratchadamnoen Road, drive toward the Clock Tower Intersection. At the intersection, turn onto Si Thammasok Road. Wat Suan Pan is located near the Clock Tower junction on the right-hand side. Limited parking space is available within the temple grounds.

• By Public Transportation: Take a local songthaew (shared pickup truck) on the “Sanam Kila – Hua Thanon” route and get off at the Clock Tower Intersection. From there, walk a short distance along Si Thammasok Road to reach the entrance of Wat Suan Pan.

• As the temple contains important religious buildings and historically valuable artworks, visitors are advised to dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum.

• If you wish to view the mural paintings inside the ordination hall or pay respects to Phra Mit, it is recommended to inquire with temple staff or monks in advance, as some buildings may not be open at all times.

• The temple is situated on the elevated mound known as “Kramom Khok,” offering a perspective different from the surrounding flat city areas, making it ideal for walking and architectural photography.

• Wat Suan Pan has a calm and peaceful atmosphere, suitable for worship, meditation, or quiet appreciation of traditional and Western-influenced Buddhist art.

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge

Opening Hours:

• Open daily for visits and worship Time: 08:00 – 16:30 hrs. (For access to main buildings and important religious structures)