Suthawat Temple, commonly known by locals as “Wat Mai” (the New Temple), is an ancient community temple located in In Buri District, Sing Buri Province. The temple holds significant historical, archaeological, and artistic value. Historical records indicate that it was built over the remains of an abandoned ancient temple during the reign of King Rama IV. Important evidence includes the discovery of a large stone Buddha image and the ruins of an old chedi on an earthen mound near a waterway, suggesting that this area once served as a major religious center.

The most precious highlight of the temple is its old viharn (assembly hall), an outstanding example of well-preserved Ayutthaya-period architecture. Inside, visitors can admire valuable ancient mural paintings depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha, especially the Buddha’s Parinirvana and the distribution of the sacred relics. These murals showcase the refined craftsmanship of master artists through delicate lines, traditional natural pigments, and compositions filled with spiritual devotion.

Beyond its artistic significance, Suthawat Temple is also a spiritual refuge for the local community through the revered legacy of Luang Pho Im, a former abbot renowned for his compassion and benevolence. His sacred amulets—particularly Luang Pho Im coins—are highly sought after by collectors, making the temple a continuous destination for worshippers seeking blessings and spiritual comfort.

The atmosphere within the temple grounds is calm, simple, and deeply spiritual. Visitors with an interest in art and archaeology will appreciate the intricate details of the viharn gable decorated with ancient glazed ceramic bowls, as well as the red sandstone Buddha images that reflect transitional periods in Buddhist art along the Chao Phraya River basin.

A visit to Suthawat Temple is not merely a historical journey but also an opportunity to experience the living continuity of faith and cultural heritage. Visitors are warmly invited to immerse themselves in the serene beauty and timeless mural art that gently purifies the mind at Suthawat Temple (Mai Temple).

Private Car:

• From Sing Buri city center, take Highway 311 (Sing Buri-In Buri) north to KM 11-12. The temple is near Wat Kradang Nga Buppharam, with a turn-off towards Ban Suan Mamuang.

Public Transport:

• Take any bus heading to In Buri and get off at the Thap Ya intersection, then use a local taxi or motorcycle taxi to reach the temple.

Best Time to Visit:

• Accessible year-round, but visiting between 09:00 - 15:00 ensures enough natural light to see the mural details inside the hall.

Photography:

• The interior of the hall is dim and the art is fragile; please refrain from using flash to prevent damaging the ancient pigments.

Recommended Activity:

• After visiting the assembly hall, pay respects to Luang Pho Im and enjoy the scenic riverside views around the temple grounds.

Trip Planning:

• This temple is located close to Wat Kradang Nga Buppharam, making it easy to include both in an In Buri temple tour.

Admission Fee

• Local Visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

• Foreign Visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

Opening Hours

• Open daily from 08:00 – 16:30.