“A monumental outdoor Buddha statue with a 20-meter-wide lap, peacefully overlooking the Nan River, serving as a spiritual center and an iconic landmark of Taphan Hin District.”
Phra Phuttha Ketu Mongkhon, commonly known as Luang Pho To Taphan Hin, is a massive Buddha statue and one of the most revered religious landmarks in Taphan Hin District. The statue is constructed from reinforced concrete and fully coated in radiant gold paint. It was completed in 1970 (B.E. 2513) and graciously bestowed with the royal name “Phra Phuttha Ketu Mongkhon” by His Majesty the King, marking it as a highly auspicious symbol for the local community.
The Buddha statue features harmonious and imposing proportions, with a lap width_ of 20 meters and an approximate height_ of 24 meters (including the base). It is regarded as one of the largest and most impressive Luang Pho To statues in Phichit Province. The statue is enshrined in the blessing posture, representing compassion, protection, and prosperity for worshippers.
Strategically positioned facing the Nan River, the statue is clearly visible from both riverbanks and nearby bridges. Its golden surface contrasts beautifully with the sky and flowing river, creating a striking and sacred visual that has become a defining landmark of Taphan Hin.
Although Wat Thewa Prasat is located near the commercial center of the district, the temple grounds remain calm and shaded by large trees, enhanced by refreshing river breezes throughout the day. In addition to Luang Pho To, the temple complex includes a traditional ordination hall and sermon hall that reflect classic Thai architectural simplicity, making it an ideal place for worship, merit-making, and peaceful riverside reflection.
How to Get There
- By Car: From Phichit town, take Highway No. 113 (Phichit–Taphan Hin) heading south for approximately 25–30 kilometers. Upon reaching Taphan Hin town, turn into Soi Santiphlaram 1. Wat Thewa Prasat is located along the Nan River.
- By Train: Travel by train to Taphan Hin Railway Station, then take a local motorized tricycle (samlor) to the temple. The distance is approximately 1–2 kilometers, making it a convenient option.
Travel Tips
- Best Time for Photos: Visit between 08:00–10:00 AM, when sunlight illuminates the front of the golden statue, creating vivid contrast with the blue sky.
- Nearby Activities: After worshipping, explore the local lifestyle around Taphan Hin Market, or cross to the opposite riverbank for panoramic photos showcasing the statue’s grandeur alongside the Nan River.
- Dress Code: Wear modest clothing suitable for a temple visit, and bring a hat or umbrella, as the statue area is an open outdoor space.
Admission Fee:
- Free admission
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 07:00 AM – 05:00 PM