“One of the most important ancient temples in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, from the Dvaravati period, houses the largest and oldest sandstone reclining Buddha in Thailand, estimated to be over 1,300 years old.”

Temple Thammachak Semaram is situated within the vicinity of "Muang Sema" (Sema Ancient City), a major historical site from the Dvaravati period. This ancient settlement is uniquely characterized by two overlapping oval-shaped moats and city walls, making the entire area an extremely significant archaeological site for history and Buddhist art. The main focus of the temple is the "Reclining Buddha" image, locally known as "Ong Por Yai" (The Great Father Figure), which serves as a powerful testament to the flourishing of Buddhism in this region over a thousand years ago.

This Reclining Buddha image is exceptionally unique because it was constructed using numerous pieces of red sandstone meticulously fitted together. It measures an impressive 13.30 meters in length and 2.80 meters in height_. The style of the sculpture is distinctly Dvaravati, particularly noticeable in the somewhat squared face and the finely rendered, small folds of the monastic robe draped diagonally across the body. Although the head and feet have suffered damage over time, visitors can still feel the immense scale and the deep faith that motivated its construction around the 13th Buddhist century (approximately 7th century CE). This makes it the oldest and largest sandstone reclining Buddha found in Thailand that is still visible in its original location.

Currently, the Reclining Buddha has been restored and preserved by the Fine Arts Department, which built a protective shelter over the image to shield it from environmental damage. Inside the shelter, a wooden walkway surrounds the Buddha, allowing visitors to view the image closely and examine the details of the sandstone assembly. Furthermore, the area directly in front of the Reclining Buddha is where a "Dharmachakra (Wheel of Law) in Stone" was discovered—a major symbol of the Dvaravati Kingdom. This artifact confirms that Muang Sema was once a prosperous center of Buddhist civilization.

In addition, a "Small Museum" has been established on the temple grounds to exhibit various artifacts unearthed from Muang Sema and the surrounding areas. These exhibits include (a part of) the actual Dharmachakra in stone, fragments of Buddha images, and ancient household objects. Visiting this museum is essential for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the historical and cultural context of the temple and the ancient city. The temple's location on a high earthen mound also offers a broad view of the surrounding landscape, highlighting the strategic and desirable topography for ancient settlement.


How to Get There
  • Private car: From Nakhon Ratchasima city, take Mittraphap Road (Highway 2) towards Sung Noen District. Turn left onto Road 2243 towards Sema Subdistrict. The temple is located in Ban Khlong Khwang.

  • Buses: Take a bus bound for Sung Noen District and then take a local bus to the temple.


Travel Tips
  • Visit the temple museum to learn about the history of Mueang Sema and important artifacts, such as the Dharmachakra Stone.

  • Please dress appropriately when visiting the temple.

  • Locals often come to pray to the Reclining Buddha (Phra Yai) for success in their careers. Ask the staff or local villagers about the worship method.

  • Each July, there is a "Reclining Buddha Worship Festival," which features local activities and traditions.


Admission Fees:

  • No admission fee (free admission)

Opening Hours:

  • Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Temple Thammachak Semaram Temple Phra Non

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Sema Subdistrict, Sung Noen District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province 30170 Map

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