Machcha Park at Pa Phruek Temple is located within an ancient temple with a long history in Bang Pla Ma District, Suphan Buri Province. The temple stands beside the Tha Chin River, which has long served as a vital lifeline for the riverside communities from the past to the present. This fish sanctuary was established based on the Buddhist principle of a non-hunting zone, becoming a conservation-oriented attraction that reflects compassion, faith, and harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

The main highlight that attracts visitors is the riverside fish sanctuary, which is home to an enormous number of freshwater fish living naturally in the river. Large striped catfish and silver barb fish are especially abundant and have become accustomed to human presence. Visitors can feed the fish up close, witnessing tens of thousands of fish rising together to the water’s surface, creating a remarkable and memorable scene that clearly demonstrates the positive impact of compassion and non-harm toward living beings.

In addition to its natural charm, the architecture within Pa Phruek Temple also holds significant artistic and spiritual value. The temple features an old ordination hall and vihara that reflect traditional Suphan Buri Buddhist art. Inside are sacred Buddha images that have been revered by the local Ta Kha community for generations. Visitors often begin their visit by paying respects to these sacred images for good fortune before strolling along the riverbank to admire the serene scenery of the gently flowing Tha Chin River in front of the temple.

The atmosphere around the fish park is shady, peaceful, and close to nature. Large trees provide cool shade, while riverside pavilions and wooden walkways offer places to sit, relax, and enjoy the fresh breeze. Feeding the fish has become a popular activity for visitors of all ages, allowing families to share meaningful moments together while experiencing the simple and friendly riverside lifestyle of the local community.

For photographers and those seeking inner peace, Pa Phruek Temple is an appealing check-in spot offering beautiful views of traditional riverside houses, tree reflections on the water, and freely swimming fish. The area’s largely untouched natural setting gives it a unique charm. The temple is also located near Ban Ta Kha community, well known for its basketry craftsmanship and agricultural products, allowing visitors to enjoy both relaxation and cultural learning in a single trip.

Machcha Park at Pa Phruek Temple is therefore a destination that invites visitors to gain merit through generosity, find peace in nature, and rest their minds amid the gentle sound of flowing water and friendly fish, in a tranquil atmosphere rarely found in busy urban life.

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How to Get There

Private Car:

• From Suphan Buri city center, take Highway 340 (towards Bangkok), turn left into Bang Pla Ma district, and head towards Ban Taka sub-district. There are signs leading to Wat Pa Phruek periodically.

Public Transport:

• Take a van on the Bangkok-Suphan Buri line, get off at the Bang Pla Ma junction, and then take a local songthaew passing through Ban Taka to the temple.

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Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit:

• Can be visited year-round. Mornings and late afternoons are ideal for pleasant weather by the river.

Dress Code:

• As it is a temple area, please dress politely and modestly to respect the sacred site.

Recommended Activities:

• Prepare small change for buying fish food and look out for rare fish species that sometimes appear.

Local Finds:

• Shop for wickerwork and local snacks from villagers in the Ban Taka area to support the local economy.

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Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Free

• Foreign visitors: Free

Opening Hours

• Open daily from 08:00 - 17:00