Wat Nakhon Sawan Royal Monastery is a Third-Class Royal Monastery (Common Type) with long-standing historical significance. Originally, the temple was known as Wat Phothilangkaram, later renamed Wat Hua Mueang due to its location at the former “head of the city” area of Nakhon Sawan. In 1913 (B.E. 2456), King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) graciously bestowed the present name, Wat Nakhon Sawan, which has been used ever since.

According to local history and legend, when Burmese troops once reached Nakhon Sawan, Buddha images were created as memorials, symbolizing the Buddhist principle of forgiveness and the renunciation of vengeance.

A unique and rare sacred feature of the temple is the “Great Buddha of Forgiveness,” commonly known as the “Back-to-Back Buddha Images.” These ancient Buddha statues are located behind the ordination hall along Thep Sitsachai Road. The two images face away from each other—one facing east and the other west—representing forgiveness, reconciliation, and the end of hostility. This distinctive form of Buddhist art is rarely found elsewhere.

Inside the ordination hall enshrines Luang Pho Si Sawan, a Sukhothai-style Buddha image in the Mara-Vijaya posture, admired for its graceful and refined features. The image is deeply revered, and many believe it brings happiness, prosperity, and auspiciousness to those who pay respects.

The ordination hall itself is spacious and elegant, adorned with finely detailed mural paintings depicting stories from the Buddha’s life and Thai literature. Within the temple grounds, visitors can also find a viharn housing statues of former abbots and a large traditional wooden sermon hall, both of which preserve classic Thai architectural styles and reflect the temple’s historical legacy.

By Private Car:

• The temple is located on Kosiy Road, one of the main commercial roads in Pak Nam Pho. It is easy to access, with parking available within the temple grounds.

By Public Transport:

• Most local songthaew routes in Nakhon Sawan pass by the temple or nearby, as it is situated in the city center.

• Recommended Activity: After paying respects to Luang Pho Si Sawan, be sure to walk behind the ordination hall to see the Great Buddha of Forgiveness, a thought-provoking and rare spiritual landmark.

• Food Area: The surrounding area is well known for famous local restaurants and historic coffee shops, making it easy to continue exploring and enjoying local cuisine on foot.

• Dress Code: As this is an important royal monastery, visitors are advised to dress modestly and respectfully.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 07:00 AM – 06:00 PM