Wat Phra Borommathat Sawi is located just 900 meters from Phetkasem Road, beside the Sawi River. It is one of the “Chaturthamathat”, the four sacred relics considered guardian spirits of the city, situated in Sawi District, Chumphon Province. The temple is over 700 years old and enshrines relics of the Buddha, making it one of the most important temples in Chumphon. It is believed to have been established during the Ayutthaya period. In 1916 (B.E. 2459), the temple underwent major restoration with the construction of a new stupa covering the original one.

In front of the stupa, along the Sawi River, stands the Phra Suea Mueang Shrine, containing a life-sized seated figure. Local residents of Sawi hold the shrine in high reverence as a sacred site.

Legend

When King Srithammarasakrat led his troops to rest at an abandoned temple in Sawi, he noticed a flock of white crows perched on piles of bricks, flapping their wings and cawing. He ordered the bricks to be removed, revealing the base of a large stupa. Upon digging further, they discovered a container holding the Buddha’s relics. The king then commanded his generals and soldiers to construct a new stupa to replace the old one and organized a grand celebration lasting seven days and seven nights. The stupa was named Phra Borommathat Kawee-pik (Kawee-pik means “flapping wings”), later shortened to Phra That Kawee, and eventually the term “Kawee” evolved into Sawi, which is the name of the district today.

Before leaving, the king was concerned that the stupa might be left without a caretaker. He asked his soldiers if anyone wished to take responsibility. A soldier named Nai Mueang volunteered. The king then commanded that Nai Mueang’s head be offered as a sacrifice in a small shrine, known as the Phra Suea Mueang Shrine, to watch over the stupa. Today, the shrine remains a place of reverence, especially among local Chinese communities.

Wat Phra Borommathat Sawi has been officially registered as a national historic site and is considered one of Chumphon Province’s most significant heritage landmarks.

• Private Car: From Chumphon city, take Phetkasem Road (Highway 4) south toward Sawi District. Upon reaching Sawi, turn onto the road leading to the town center; the temple is near the district office and adjacent to the Sawi Canal.

• Public Transport (Train): Take a train to Sawi Railway Station, then continue via motorcycle taxi or tuk-tuk for a short distance to the temple.

• Pay respects at the Phra Borommathat Chedi for blessings and visit the Phra Suea Muang Shrine.

• Dress modestly, as this is an active religious site.

• Spend time exploring the museum to learn about the temple’s history and ancient artifacts.

Entrance Fee:

• Free (no admission fee)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily, generally 08:00–20:00 for temple grounds.