“An ancient wooden Scripture Library built in the middle of a pond to protect against termites and insects ban architectural heritage reflecting the wisdom of Thai ancestors in preserving religious scriptures.”
TaiTonLan Temple) is a highly significant temple in terms of history and art in Phanat Nikhom District, Chonburi Province. It is believed to have been built during the early Rattanakosin period, over a hundred years ago. The most prominent feature of this temple that attracts historians and tourists alike is the Scripture Library in the middle of the pond, which is considered an exceptionally well-preserved and beautiful example of wooden architecture. Building the library in the middle of the water was a traditional wisdom intended to prevent ants, termites, or other insects from eating and destroying the Dharma scriptures written on palm leaves, which are intellectual heritages passed down through generations.
The architectural style of this Scripture Library is a small Thai-style wooden building standing on wooden pillars in the middle of the pond, featuring beautifully layered roofs according to the traditional Thai craftsman style. The walls and doors are decorated with delicate and valuable Thai wood carvings. In addition to the library in the water, the temple also houses an Ancient Wooden Sermon Hall that is equally large and beautiful. The pillars of the hall and the roof structure demonstrate meticulous wood-joining techniques and the choice of high-quality hardwood, allowing these structures to stand defiantly against time until the present day.
The surrounding atmosphere of Wat Tai Ton Lan is very shaded and peaceful. The pond surrounding the Scripture Library is planted with lotuses and aquatic plants, creating a landscape that is both cooling and solemn. Visitors can feel the deep faith that previous generations had for Buddhism through their dedication and effort in delicately building a place to preserve these teachings. This temple is not just a place for making merit but also serves as an open-air museum that vividly tells the story of the cultural and artistic prosperity in the local Phanat Nikhom area.
For tourists who enjoy photography and art, Wat Tai Ton Lan is a destination that should not be missed. The view from the edge of the pond, seeing the ancient wooden library reflecting on the water's surface, is an image that communicates profound peace and charm. Visitors will learn about Thai-style house characteristics and water management in the past, as well as pay respect to sacred objects within the temple for prosperity. Visiting this temple is a form of relaxation that provides both knowledge and peace of mind at the same time.
How to Get There
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Private Car: From Phanat Nikhom District, take the main road towards Rai Lak Thong Subdistrict (Highway 315). There are signs leading to Wat Tai Ton Lan throughout the route, and the road to the temple is convenient.
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Public Transport: You can hire a local transport service from the station in Phanat Nikhom District to the temple. The distance is short and the travel is easy.
Travel Tips
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Recommended Time: Morning (08:00 - 10:00 AM) to get the sunlight hitting the wooden hall, making the carvings clear and beautiful for photos.
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Dress Code: Dress politely and modestly as it is an active religious site and an important historical landmark.
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Photography: A recommended angle is from the entrance bridge to capture the entire wooden building in the middle of the water.
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What to Prepare: Bringing a fan or a hat is suggested, as the area around the pond can be hot during the day.
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Safety: Be careful when walking on the wooden bridge leading to the library, and do not shake or lean against the ancient wooden walls.
Admission Fee:
- No Admission Fee
Opening Hours:
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Open Daily: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM