Phra Non Temple is one of the most well-known and continuously popular ancient temples in Suphan Buri Province. It is also an important stop on the famous “Nine Sacred Temples” pilgrimage route, widely visited by travelers and Buddhist devotees. The temple is believed to have been established during the U Thong–Suphanphum period, an era marking the early prosperity of communities along the Tha Chin River, and later underwent significant restoration during the Rattanakosin period. As a result, Phra Non Temple holds outstanding historical, artistic, and religious value.

The temple is located along the banks of the Tha Chin River, giving it a lush and tranquil environment with cool breezes and abundant natural scenery. Its riverside setting reflects the traditional way of life of Suphan Buri communities, where religion and waterways have long been deeply interconnected from the past to the present.

The most distinctive feature of Phra Non Temple, officially recognized as Unseen Thailand, is “Luang Pho Phra Non”, a reclining Buddha image enshrined inside a cruciform hall. Unlike typical reclining Buddha images that lie on their side, this Buddha is depicted lying on his back, a very rare posture in Thailand. The image is carved from stone, approximately 2 meters long, and proportioned similarly to an ancient human figure.

In terms of artistic style, Luang Pho Phra Non closely resembles the reclining Buddha at Kushinagar in India, the sacred site of the Buddha’s Parinirvana. Some scholars believe that this image reflects artistic influence and religious concepts from Mahayana Buddhism that spread into the Suvarnabhumi region in ancient times. This connection enhances the temple’s significance both artistically and philosophically within Buddhist traditions.

Beyond the sacred reclining Buddha, Phra Non Temple is also known for its natural attraction called the “Fish Sanctuary Park”, located along the river in front of the temple. This area was designated as a fish conservation zone under the royal initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, aiming to preserve aquatic ecosystems and freshwater resources in the Tha Chin River.

The sanctuary is home to hundreds of thousands of freshwater fish, including striped catfish, silver barb, giant gourami, and catla. Most of these fish are tame and accustomed to human presence, often gathering near the water’s surface and creating a lively and memorable scene, especially enjoyed by families and children.

Overall, the temple grounds are carefully maintained and beautifully landscaped with fruit trees and ornamental plants, providing shade and a relaxing atmosphere. Phra Non Temple is an ideal destination for families, travelers, and pilgrims who wish to make merit, pay respects, explore history, and experience the peaceful and charming riverside lifestyle of the Tha Chin River in its most traditional and authentic form.

Private Car:

• Cross the Aracha Simok Bridge and turn left onto Somphan Khong Road. Follow the road along the Tha Chin River; the temple is located just past Wat No Phutthangkun. Ample parking is available inside the temple grounds.

Public Transport:

• Accessible by hiring a Tuk-tuk or taking a local "Songthaew" (mini-bus) from Suphan Buri town.

Recommended Activity:

• Buying fish food (about 10-20 THB per bag) to feed the thousands of fish at the pier is a very popular activity, especially for children.

Goddess of Mercy (Guanyin) Shrine:

• Near the fish sanctuary, there is a riverside shrine dedicated to Guanyin. Visitors often stop here to pray for blessings in fortune and trade.

Photography:

• The pier area features traditional pavilions and garden corners, perfect for capturing the serene atmosphere of the Suphan Buri River.

Best Time to Visit:

• Early morning or late afternoon (after 3:30 PM) is best to avoid the midday heat, allowing for a comfortable walk and relaxation by the water.

Admission Fee

• Thai Visitors: Free

• Foreign Visitors: Free

Opening Hours

• Daily from 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM