“A rare golden Mon-style pagoda modeled after Chittagong, Chinese-style Prang, and sacred white Buddha statue situated along the Chao Phraya River, showcasing authentic Mon-Ayutthaya heritage.”
Wat Chedi Thong is an ancient temple located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River in Sam Khok District, Pathum Thani Province. It is considered one of the important centers of Mon-Thai culture in the Chao Phraya River basin. The temple is notable for its Mon-Burmese architecture, history, and art. It is believed to have roots dating back to the Ayutthaya period and underwent significant restoration during the Thonburi and early Rattanakosin periods, when Mon people migrated and settled in Sam Khok, a large Mon community that played a crucial role in Pathum Thani's history.
The most striking feature of the temple is the "Golden Pagoda," a resplendent golden Mon-style pagoda. It is a bell-shaped pagoda with a square base, constructed of brick and mortar in the Mon architectural style. The spire is adorned with Burmese-style rings and a finial. Inside, the pagoda houses four Buddha images facing in different directions, beautifully gilded and decorated with stained glass. The architectural style is influenced by the Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar, a unique characteristic that distinguishes Wat Chedi Thong from other temples in central Thailand. It is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Mon architecture in Pathum Thani Province. Within the temple grounds are several important artifacts and structures, such as a Buddha statue in the Maravijaya posture carved from white Burmese jade, which has been revered by the Mon people for a long time. There are also traditional Thai-style and hip-roofed wooden monks' quarters reflecting the vernacular architecture of the Mon community. Furthermore, there is a prayer hall adorned with intricately carved wooden patterns, Ayutthaya-era red sandstone boundary markers, and a pagoda decorated with Chinese glazed tiles, showcasing a harmonious blend of Thai, Mon, Chinese, and Burmese art within the same temple.
The atmosphere within the temple is peaceful and retains the charm of a traditional riverside community. Tourists can stroll along the Chao Phraya River and experience the lifestyle of the Mon people in the Sam Khok area firsthand. The temple is particularly beautiful during the morning and evening when the sunlight reflects off the golden pagoda. In addition, the temple is a place for rituals and traditions of the Mon community in Pathum Thani Province, making Wat Chedi Thong not only a cultural tourist attraction but also a center of faith and identity for the Mon people in the area.
With its historical, artistic, and cultural value, Wat Chedi Thong is considered one of the important temples in Pathum Thani province, clearly reflecting the story of the Mon people's settlement in the Chao Phraya basin. Tourists interested in local history, ancient architecture, or Thai-Mon culture can enjoy studying the details of the pagoda, artifacts, and structures within the temple. Furthermore, it offers convenient access to nearby Mon communities and tourist attractions in Sam Khok district. Therefore, this temple is both a valuable cultural and historical tourist destination and a significant learning resource in Pathum Thani province.
How to Get There
- From Pathum Thani city center, take Highway 3111 (Pathum Thani-Sam Khok) towards Sam Khok. Turn right following signs for Khlong Khwai Sub-district or towards Wat Phai Lom. The temple is located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River.
Travel Tips
- Visit in the morning for cooler weather and softer lighting.
- Late afternoon offers beautiful reflections on the golden pagoda.
- Dress respectfully as the temple is a sacred religious site.
- Bring a hat or umbrella because the outdoor area can be hot.
Admission Fees:
- Free admission.
Opening Hours:
- Daily from 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM.