Wat Pa Pradu is an ancient temple in Rayong, located in the heart of the city's municipal area on Sukhumvit Road in Tha Pradu Subdistrict. It holds the status of a third-class royal temple and has long been a spiritual center for the people of Rayong. The temple is significant in terms of religion, history, and art, with evidence and mentions from various sources suggesting its age dates back to the Ayutthaya period. Although there is no definitive documented year of construction, architectural evidence and local accounts reflect the continuous presence of a religious community in the area for a long time.

The temple's most prominent feature is the reclining Buddha statue, known as the "Phra Phuttha Saiyat," which is unique among reclining Buddhas in Thailand as it is depicted lying on its left side, a rare sight. The statue measures approximately 11.95 meters in length and is enshrined within a later-built vihara (chapel). Originally, it was displayed outdoors before the vihara was constructed to preserve it and provide a permanent religious site.

Wat Pa Pradu also boasts several other significant architectural features, such as the old ordination hall showcasing early Rattanakosin-style art. This includes the Phra Palilayaka Vihara, which reflects deep Buddhist beliefs and history. The temple grounds are lush with large trees and offer a tranquil atmosphere, despite being located in the bustling city. This makes the temple a perfect blend of urban life and spiritual serenity. It's also a popular place for Rayong residents to visit for blessings, especially to pay homage to the reclining Buddha, believed to be the city's sacred image.

Historically, records indicate that the temple was elevated to the status of a royal temple around 1980-1990 (due to various restorations and declarations of its elevation). It is one of Rayong's important temples, continuously developed in terms of religious structures and the preservation of historical sites. This has resulted in the temple maintaining its artistic integrity and the unwavering faith of Buddhist devotees to this day.

With its distinctive left-lying reclining Buddha image, Wat Pa Pradu has become a significant cultural tourist attraction in Rayong. Visitors can combine religious worship, merit-making, and learning about local history. Therefore, the temple is not just a religious site, but also a cultural space that clearly reflects the identity of Rayong city.

• Located in downtown Rayong on Sukhumvit Road. Easily accessible by private car or public transport. It is situated near the Rayong City Municipal Market and Rayong Hospital.

• Visit in the morning to avoid heat and crowds

• Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees

• Remove shoes before entering sacred halls

• Bring drinking water as the area is quite spacious

Admission Fees:

• Free admission.

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 06:00 AM – 09:00 PM.