Sawang Arom Temple, commonly known by locals as “Wat Bang Mon,” is an important temple and cultural center of Sing Buri Province. Located along the banks of the Chao Phraya River within a long-established community, the temple plays a significant role in religious life, artistic heritage, and cultural preservation. It serves as a learning center that reflects traditional wisdom and ways of life passed down from the past to the present.

Sawang Arom Temple is nationally renowned as the home of the Nang Yai Museum, which preserves one of the finest and most complete collections of traditional Nang Yai shadow puppets in Thailand. Each Nang Yai figure is meticulously carved from cowhide by master artisans, featuring delicate floral patterns and characters from the Ramakien epic. These puppets represent a priceless cultural heritage passed down through generations and stand as rare evidence of Thailand’s classical high art performance traditions.

Beyond Nang Yai, the temple is also a center for skilled Buddha image sculptors who inherit their craftsmanship from traditional casting families of the Thonburi area. The sculpting and casting processes strictly follow traditional methods that require technical skill, patience, and deep religious devotion. Visitors can observe and learn about the creation of Buddha images, clearly illustrating the close connection between art and Buddhism.

Inside the ordination hall is enshrined Luang Pho Rueang, a sacred Buddha image that has long been deeply revered by the Bang Mon community. Luang Pho Rueang serves as a spiritual anchor for local residents, who come to pay respect and pray for blessings, peace of mind, and well-being. This devotion reflects the strong bond between the temple and the everyday lives of the local people.

The atmosphere within the temple is peaceful and imbued with a sense of sacredness. Its riverside location allows cool breezes to flow throughout the day. The Nang Yai Museum, housed in the sermon hall, is carefully and orderly arranged. The shadow puppets are displayed against white screens and illuminated from behind, allowing the intricate carved patterns to be seen clearly. This setting offers visitors an immersive artistic experience combined with relaxation in a tranquil environment.

For photographers and art enthusiasts, Sawang Arom Temple is a valuable site for capturing cultural imagery. The interplay of light and shadow cast by the Nang Yai puppets creates fascinating depth, while scenes of dedicated craftsmen sculpting Buddha images vividly reflect the roots and spirit of Thai artistic tradition. The temple is therefore a source of inspiration for artists, students, and cultural learners from across the country.

Sawang Arom Temple is not merely a riverside temple, but a living repository of faith, art, and cultural heritage. Visitors are warmly invited to explore the beauty of Nang Yai and to take part in preserving the legacy of Thai craftsmanship that continues to thrive in Sing Buri Province.

Private Car:

• From Sing Buri city, take Highway 309 (Sing Buri-Ang Thong old route) south for about 3 km (KM 94). The temple is located by the Chao Phraya River.

Public Transport:

• Local buses on the Sing Buri-Ang Thong route or tuk-tuks from the Sing Buri Bus Terminal are readily available.

Best Time to Visit:

• Open year-round. If you wish to see a puppet rehearsal, please contact the temple in advance for a schedule.

Attire:

• Please dress modestly. It is recommended to wear socks if you plan to walk through the museum on the wooden hall.

Photography:

• Photography is allowed, but please turn off your flash to help preserve the condition of the ancient puppets.

Extra Highlight:

• Don't miss the "Hong Thong," an ancient long-boat once famous in Sing Buri, which is kept on the temple grounds for public study.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

• Foreign visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

Opening Hours

• Mon - Fri: 09:00 – 16:00

• Sat - Sun & Public Holidays: 08:30 – 17:00