Nong Sarai is a place clearly recorded in Thai chronicles and history textbooks as an important battlefield and military encampment during the reign of King Naresuan the Great in 1592. It served as a key staging area before his historic elephant duel with the Burmese Crown Prince. King Naresuan chose Nong Sarai as a military base because it was a large natural pond with an abundant water supply sufficient for tens of thousands of soldiers, as well as war elephants and horses. In addition, the surrounding terrain consisted of elevated land, making it strategically advantageous for defense and difficult for enemy forces to attack.

According to historical evidence, Nong Sarai was a crucial strategic location prior to the Battle of the Elephant Duel at Don Chedi. King Naresuan used this area to assemble his troops, plan military strategies, and prepare provisions. The careful selection of this favorable terrain reflected his exceptional military wisdom and played a vital role in the decisive victory that later contributed to the restoration of independence and the stability of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

Today, the Nong Sarai historical pond has been restored and developed into a historical learning site combined with a peaceful public park. The remaining water area covers approximately 29 rai. Around the pond, exhibitions and informational signs explain key historical events, allowing visitors to gain a clear understanding of the context of the ancient warfare. Within the area, there is also a pavilion in the middle of the water that enshrines a statue of King Naresuan the Great, providing a place for visitors to pay their respects and commemorate his great contributions.

The atmosphere surrounding Nong Sarai is quiet and serene, filled with trees and green spaces. It is an ideal place for relaxation, walking, or exercise for both local residents and tourists. The surrounding community continues to maintain a simple agricultural way of life, reflecting a long-standing relationship between people, the land, and water that has endured since ancient times.

In addition, within Nong Sarai Subdistrict stands Wat Nong Sarai, an ancient temple of great historical and spiritual importance to the local community. Inside the temple is another royal monument of King Naresuan the Great, where people can pay homage for blessings and to honor his heroic legacy.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to Nong Sarai provides a clearer understanding of the strategic landscape and military context of the past. Visitors can also continue on to the Don Chedi Royal Monument, located approximately three kilometers away, to view the Elephant Duel Chedi and detailed exhibitions depicting the historic battle, completing a comprehensive historical journey in a single trip.

Visitors are warmly invited to experience the atmosphere of Thai national history amid the tranquility of nature at Nong Sarai, a place that marks the beginning of victory, freedom, and the enduring courage of Thailand’s ancestors.

Private Car:

• From Suphan Buri city center, take Highway 322 (towards Don Chedi). Upon reaching the Don Chedi Monument, continue on Highway 3038 for about 3 km; the entrance to Bueng Nong Sarai will be on your left.

Public Transport:

• Take a van on the Bangkok-Suphan Buri-Don Chedi line. Get off at Don Chedi district and hire a motorcycle taxi or local transport to the site.

Best Time to Visit:

• Recommended during the early morning (07:00 - 09:00 AM) or late afternoon (04:30 - 06:30 PM) to avoid the heat and enjoy the sunset reflecting on the water.

Recommended Activities:

• Walking around the lake to read the historical boards and relaxing by the water is the best way to soak in the past atmosphere.

Photo Spots:

• The water pavilion and the King Naresuan statue are must-visit spots for commemorative photos.

Souvenirs:

• In the Don Chedi and Nong Sarai areas, local community enterprises sell processed agricultural products and interesting local handicrafts.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Free

• Foreign visitors: Free

Opening Hours

• Open daily from 08:30 - 17:30 (Public park areas are accessible from dawn to dusk)