Pa Lelai Worawihan Temple is located along Malai Man Road in Rua Yai Subdistrict, on the western bank of the Suphan Buri River (Tha Chin River). It is a third-class royal temple of the Worawihan category and has long been regarded as one of the most important temples in Suphan Buri. The temple is believed to have been established during a period when the city of Suphan Buri flourished, serving as a major religious and spiritual center for communities along the Tha Chin River.

A key historical feature of the temple is the gable of the main viharn, which bears the royal emblem of the Great Crown flanked by a pair of tiered umbrellas. This symbol indicates that King Mongkut (Rama IV) once visited the temple during his monkhood. After ascending the throne, he later ordered its restoration. Additionally, the Northern Chronicles mention that King Kata assigned Mon craftsmen to renovate Pa Lelai Worawihan Temple after 1724 BE, further confirming the temple’s long history and significance.

The spiritual heart of the temple is Luang Pho To, a colossal Buddha image enshrined inside the towering viharn and visible from a great distance. The image is in the Pa Lelai posture, representing the U-Thong–Suphan Buri artistic style. The Buddha is seated with both legs hanging down; the left hand rests palm-down on the knee, while the right hand rests palm-up in a gesture of receiving offerings. The image stands 23.46 meters tall, with a circumference of 11.20 meters, conveying a sense of grandeur and reverence.

Many scholars believe that Luang Pho To was originally a Buddha image in the First Sermon posture, built in an open-air setting similar to Phra Phanan Choeng in its early days. Large Buddha images from the pre-Ayutthaya and early Ayutthaya periods were often constructed outdoors so they could be seen from afar. Enshrined within the body of Luang Pho To are 36 relics of the Buddha, obtained from Phra Maha Thera Lai Lai, adding to the image’s sacredness and spiritual importance.

Luang Pho To is deeply revered by people of Suphan Buri and neighboring provinces. Each year, two major festivals are held in honor of the Buddha image, during the waxing moon days of the 7th to 9th nights of the 5th lunar month and again in the 12th lunar month. During these periods, the temple becomes especially lively, filled with devotees and visitors who come to pay homage and make merit.

Opposite the viharn, visitors will find local souvenir shops offering regional products. Behind the temple stands Khum Khun Chang, a large teakwood Thai-style house constructed according to the literary description of Khun Chang’s residence from the epic Khun Chang Khun Phaen. Inside, murals and character displays illustrate scenes from the story, along with exhibits of traditional household items and antique utensils. This area allows visitors to experience Thai religion, history, and classical literature all within a single destination.

Private Car:

• Located on Malai Maen Road (Highway 321). The tall Wihan of Luang Pho To is visible from a distance as you approach the west bank of the river.

Public Transport:

• Buses and vans from Bangkok to Suphan Buri are available, and local "Songthaews" frequently pass the temple.

Recommended Hours:

• Open daily from 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM. Morning visits are recommended for a more comfortable walk along the murals.

Recommended Activities:

• Try the Esiimsi (fortune sticks) inside the main hall and visit Khum Khun Chang to experience the authentic ancient Thai residential vibe.

Etiquette:

• As this is a highly respected royal temple, please ensure your dress is modest (shoulders and knees covered).

Admission Fee

• Local Visitors: Free

• Foreign Visitors: Free

Opening Hours

• Daily from 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM