Wat Chomphuwek is an important ancient temple in Nonthaburi province closely connected with Mon communities living along the Chao Phraya River. It is believed to have been built during the early Ayutthaya period (around the 15th–16th centuries), a time when many Mon people migrated and settled in central Thailand.The temple was originally called “Wat Chomphuwivek.” The word “Wivek” refers to peace and tranquility, while “Chomphu” refers to abundance or a fertile area. The name therefore can be interpreted as “a peaceful and fertile place on elevated ground,” reflecting the traditional practice of building temples on higher land to avoid flooding and to serve as community centers.

The temple layout is divided into two main zones: the sacred Buddhist area (Phutthawat) and the monks’ residential area (Sangkhawat). The Phutthawat section contains the ordination hall, chedi, and vihara, all of which clearly reflect classical Ayutthaya-period temple architecture.At the center of the temple stands the old ordination hall, built in early Ayutthaya architectural style. It features thick walls, a raised base, and no windows, forming a “Maha Utos” (windowless ubosot). This design is associated with sacredness and ritual purity, with only a single entrance used for ceremonial purposes.Inside the ordination hall are highly significant mural paintings executed in traditional tempera technique, which is now rare. These murals depict Buddhist history, Jataka tales, and the Ten Great Birth Stories, arranged continuously around all four walls, allowing viewers to follow the narrative sequence.The most famous painting is the scene of “Phra Mae Thorani wringing her hair,” depicting the moment of Buddha’s victory over Mara. The composition is dynamic, with flowing hair, water, and expressive movement, symbolizing the triumph of enlightenment. This mural is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in Thailand due to its balance, detail, and emotional intensity.

In addition to the murals, the interior of the hall is decorated with stucco floral motifs and Chinese porcelain inlays, reflecting a blend of Thai, Mon, and Chinese artistic traditions. This demonstrates cultural exchange within the Chao Phraya River basin during that period.The temple also contains a Mon-style vihara, an important symbol of the original ethnic community. It houses sandstone Buddha images and a replica of the Buddha’s footprint used for worship. This vihara remains a spiritual center for the local Mon community and is still used for traditional religious ceremonies.Around the temple, there are also contemporary murals depicting local life and cultural heritage, blending historical and modern artistic expressions. This makes the surrounding area a cultural learning space and a popular photography destination.

• By car: Drive along Sanam Bin Nam Road, then turn into Soi Nonthaburi 33 and continue about 500 meters into the alley.

• By bus: Take bus No. 191 or a local songthaew (Sanam Bin Nam–Nonthaburi route).

• By boat: Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat and get off at Nonthaburi Pier or Ministry of Commerce Pier, then continue by local transport.

• By MRT: Use the Purple Line (Yaek Nonthaburi 1 Station) or the Pink Line (Sanam Bin Nam Station), then transfer to local transport.

• Dress modestly and appropriately, as this is a sacred religious site with resident monks.

• Visit in the morning to early afternoon for the best natural lighting to clearly view the mural paintings inside the ordination hall.

• Take your time when entering the old ubosot, as the mural details are complex and worth careful observation.

• Avoid visiting during midday heat, as some outdoor areas can be quite exposed.

• Allow extra time to explore the temple grounds, including the ancient architecture, Mon-style vihara, and surrounding cultural photo spots.

Admission Fee:

• Free (donations are welcome)

Opening Hours:

• 08:00 – 16:30 daily (some monastic areas may open earlier around 04:30)