Phra Phanat Bodhi is an ancient stone Buddha image of great importance and is highly revered by the people of Phanat Nikhom. The history of this Buddha image is very interesting, as it was discovered in the old city area, which is now Phanat Nikhom District. Phra Phanat Bodhi is a Buddha image carved from fine black stone, dating back to the Dvaravati period, approximately 1,200 to 1,300 years ago. The uniqueness of this Buddha image is its rare appearance in Thailand: it is a standing Buddha depicted on the back of a mythical creature that combines three significant animals the Garuda, the Bull, and the Swan. This represents the integration of the highest gods in Brahmin-Hinduism under the Buddhist merit of the Buddha.

Currently, the original image is kept safe, but the municipality has created a replica that is beautiful and perfectly proportioned according to the original design to be enshrined at the Phra Phanat Bodhi Pavilion in the middle of the pond. This allows citizens and tourists to worship the image. This pavilion was exquisitely built with applied Thai architecture, standing prominently in the middle of a large pond opposite the Phanat Nikhom City Municipality Office. The choice to enshrine it in the middle of the water symbolizes the coolness, peace, and abundance of the city. The name Phanat Nikhom has an auspicious meaning: "The city in the forest." Having Phra Phanat Bodhi as the presiding image of the city is considered to bring prosperity and stability to its residents

The beauty of the Phra Phanat Bodhi replica reflects the faith that the townspeople have in their ancestors and local history. The Buddha has a full, radiant face with eyes looking down, showing mercy and compassion to all living beings. The creature upon which He stands is carved with great detail, showing the influence of ancient art that perfectly blended religious beliefs together. The area around the pavilion is neatly organized, with a bridge stretching across the pond to the pavilion. This allows those who walk inside to feel a sense of peace and privacy for performing religious ceremonies or practicing meditation for a short period amidst the beautiful surroundings.

The area around this municipal pond is not just a place to enshrine a sacred object; it is also a main activity space for the community. In the evening, you will see images of townspeople relaxing and exercising around the pond, making this place lively and reflecting a simple yet happy way of life. For tourists and photographers, the pavilion in the middle of the water during sunset is a very beautiful and quiet sight. The lights decorated around the pavilion reflect on the water's surface, creating a beautiful and even more sacred dimension. It is a check-in point that should not be missed when visiting Phanat Nikhom.

We invite all travelers to worship Phra Phanat Bodhi to enhance their prosperity and experience the living historical roots. To pay respect to such a valuable Buddha image and view the beautiful scenery in the heart of the city will surely leave you with a great impression and peace of mind. This place is the heart that tells the story of Phanat Nikhom's prosperity from the past to the present in the best way possible and is an excellent starting point for further exploring this old city.

• Private Car: Drive into Phanat Nikhom District. The pavilion is located on Prachaniyom Road, opposite the Phanat Nikhom City Municipality Office. Parking is available along the road around the pond.

• Public Transport: Take a van or bus to Phanat Nikhom District. The pavilion is in the heart of the city, within walking distance, or you can take a low-cost motorized tricycle 

• Recommended Time: Early morning or evening (4:30 PM - 6:30 PM) to see the pavilion's decorative lights and enjoy cooler weather.

• Activities: It is recommended to walk around the pond to view the pavilion from different angles for diverse and beautiful photos.

• Dress Code: As it is an open public park area, you can dress comfortably, but please be respectful when entering the pavilion.

• Nearby Food: There are many local restaurants and snack carts with great flavors around the pond in the evening.

• Photography: The popular photo spot is on the bridge leading to the pavilion, capturing the top of the pavilion against the skyline.

Admission Fee:

• No Admission Fee.

Opening Hours:

• The pond area is open 24 hours.

• The pavilion is open for worship from 07:00 AM – 07:00 PM (Hours may change on important days).