Wat Matchimawat has a history spanning over 100 years, predating the establishment of Udon Thani city. Originally, it was an abandoned temple named "Wat Non Mak Khaeng." According to local legend, there was a large laterite chedi built over a Mak Khaeng tree stump, and a white stone Buddha in the Naga Prok posture was enshrined there.

When the city was founded in 1893 (B.E. 2436), Major General Krom Luang Prachak Silpakom built Udon Thani and ordered the restoration of this abandoned temple, giving it the royal name "Wat Matchimawat."

Wat Matchimawat is a third-class royal monastery of ordinary type and is considered an iconic temple of Udon Thani. Luang Pho Nak, the original white stone Buddha in the Naga Prok posture, is enshrined in the main viharn. Today, the temple has constructed a protective Buddha covering around the original statue, which is regarded as a sacred city Buddha and a key symbol of the temple.

Significant architectural features and structures inside the temple include the ubosot (ordination hall) built in 1942 (B.E. 2485), the Thai-style viharn housing Luang Pho Nak, Phra Phuttha Norasi Mahamuni, and Phra Phutthawat Sitt. These buildings are not only beautiful but also serve as centers for religious and cultural activities in the community.

Wat Matchimawat was historically a major center for Buddhist studies in the Udon region and has played a role in spreading religious knowledge and culture. The temple hosts activities such as sermons, chanting, traditional ceremonies, and religious training to promote understanding of Buddhist teachings and local traditions.

Located in the heart of Udon Thani city, the temple is easily accessible by private car or local transport. It is near government offices such as the Udon Thani Provincial Hall and the Udon Thani Court. Visitors are encouraged to maintain silence, be respectful, and dress appropriately to honor the temple’s traditions and sacredness.

• Private car: The temple is located in central Udon Thani. Visitors can drive along Udon Dutsadee Road. The temple is near government offices, including the provincial hall and court.

• Public/local transport: Visitors can use local taxis, tuk-tuks, or public transport in the city, as the temple is well-known and centrally located.

• Wat Matchimawat is a third-class royal monastery under the Mahanikaya order. It was historically a major center for Buddhist studies in the Udon region, so visitors should maintain quiet, respectful behavior, and wear proper attire.

• Arrive early in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds and have enough time to explore the architecture and Buddha statues.

• If interested in history and art, bring a notebook or camera to record details of the viharn and Buddha images.

• Respect the site and avoid making loud noises, especially inside the viharn and meditation areas.

• Visitors can participate in religious activities such as listening to sermons or chanting to learn about traditional Thai culture and practices.

• To fully appreciate the Buddha statues and structures, walk slowly and take time at each point to observe the beauty of the architectural details.

Entrance Fee

• Free of charge

Opening Hours

• Open daily, generally from early morning until late afternoon. Visitors should check the exact closing times for each building on the day of the visit.