Phra Sayam Thewathirat Replica is one of the most revered sacred symbols among the people of Sa Kaeo Province. It was constructed in 1975 by Phra Uthai Thammathari, who was then the abbot of Wat Pa Mafai, to serve as a spiritual anchor for soldiers, police officers, and civilians during a period of intense conflict along the Thai–Cambodian border. The replica deity was enshrined in the border area with the belief that it would protect the Thai nation and strengthen morale among those defending the land during a time of crisis.

The replica statue stands approximately 1.29 meters tall, depicted in a standing posture adorned in royal regalia, holding a sword in the right hand—an iconic feature faithfully modeled after the original Phra Siam Devadhiraj enshrined within the Grand Palace in Bangkok. The statue is housed within an intricately carved wooden busabok pavilion, elevated on a dignified base. This pavilion was jointly constructed by local residents in 1985 as an offering of reverence, honoring the deity as a guardian of the nation and a significant landmark in the heart of the district.

The surrounding area is filled with an atmosphere of faith, calmness, and orderly reverence. Located on a traffic island in front of Aranyaprathet Provincial Police Station, the site is passed by numerous commuters throughout the day. Many visitors slow down or stop to pay respect, light incense, or offer garlands, seeking blessings for safety and protection. In the early morning and late afternoon, gentle sunlight reflects upon the statue and pavilion, creating a serene and deeply inspiring scene.

For travelers and spiritual seekers, this sacred site is considered an essential stop when visiting Aranyaprathet. Photographing the statue against the open sky with the golden busabok as a backdrop conveys a powerful and sacred presence. At the same time, local historians and community leaders often use this site as a starting point to recount stories of courage, sacrifice, and the strong morale of border guardians who drew spiritual strength from this revered deity.

The replica of Phra Siam Devadhiraj in Aranyaprathet therefore stands not only as a sacred object of worship, but also as a symbol of unity, hope, and spiritual resilience for the people living along Thailand’s border regions, preserving this faith to the present day.

By Private Car:

• Drive to the center of Aranyaprathet onto Mahadthai Road; the replica is located on the central island directly across from the Aranyaprathet Police Station.

By Local Transport:

• Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are well-acquainted with the location; simply ask to be taken to "Na Rong Pak" (in front of the police station) or "Phra Sayam Thewathirat."

Best Time to Visit:

• Early morning or late afternoon is best to avoid the midday sun, as the shrine is located outdoors on a main road.

Equipment:

• Bring marigold garlands or fresh yellow flowers from the nearby market to offer, as yellow is the traditional color of reverence here.

Photography:

• The view from across the street offers the best angle for the pavilion, but please be mindful of traffic while framing your shot.

Local Culture:

• Paying respects with a traditional "Wai" or placing a garland at the base of the pedestal is a common local practice.

Planning:

• Located in the city center, it’s a perfect quick stop before visiting Rong Kluea Market or Wat Anubanphot.

Admission Fee

• Free entry (Open for public worship).

Opening Hours

• Open 24 hours daily.

• (Recommended visiting hours: 06:00 – 18:00 for better visibility and photography).