Khian Temple is a small but ancient community temple with a long history dating back to the Ayutthaya period. It is located in Wiset Chai Chan District, Ang Thong Province, not far from Wat Wiset Chai Chan. Although the temple is modest in size and situated within a quiet local community, it has gained national recognition as a repository of invaluable ancient mural paintings, regarded as priceless works of art. Its outstanding cultural significance led to its murals being selected as illustrations on a commemorative banknote issued to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the reign of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), reflecting the enduring artistic and cultural value preserved for several centuries.

The most remarkable feature of Khian Temple is the mural paintings inside the ordination hall, created using mineral pigments on a vivid red background in the style of late Ayutthaya art. These murals vividly depict stories from the Ten Great Births of the Buddha (Tosachat Jataka) and episodes from the life of the Buddha with remarkable detail, refinement, and profound moral meaning. In particular, the images of “Manora” and “Phra Vessantara” stand out for their graceful forms, harmonious composition, and delicate line work. Scholars believe that these paintings were created by artisans of the Wiset Chai Chan school, known for their distinctive style in composition, color usage, and emotional expression, which has become increasingly rare to find today.

The atmosphere within Khian Temple is tranquil and natural, making it an ideal place for visitors to quietly appreciate the beauty of ancient art. The ordination hall is constructed in the Maha-Ud style, meaning it has no windows, allowing soft interior lighting that helps preserve the vivid colors of the murals and prevents them from fading significantly over time. Visitors entering the hall can sense the deep spiritual devotion conveyed through the meticulous brushwork, reflecting the faith and dedication of the creators in the past, set within the serene context of the simple riverside lifestyle along the Noi River.

Beyond the murals inside the ordination hall, the temple grounds also feature important architectural elements, including a twelve-cornered chedi and ancient sandstone boundary markers (bai sema). These structures serve as historical evidence of the flourishing Buddhist art and the prosperity of the local community in earlier times. The architectural details clearly reflect the wisdom, beliefs, and artistic taste of Thai society during the Ayutthaya era.

For historians, art scholars, artists, and photographers, Khian Temple is often described as a “hidden gem” that must be experienced firsthand. The balanced composition of the murals, the depth of their narratives, and the subtle moral teachings embedded within the details provide exceptional inspiration. Visiting Wat Khian is therefore akin to opening a door back in time to the former glory of Siam, making it a place truly worthy of exploration, appreciation, and preservation as a lasting intellectual and cultural heritage of Thai ancestors.

By Private Car:

• From Ang Thong city center, take Highway 3454 toward Wiset Chai Chan for about 12 km. The temple is located near Wat Wiset Chai Chan in San Chao Rong Thong.

By Public Transport:

• Take a van from Bangkok to Ang Thong/Wiset Chai Chan, get off at the district center, and take a local motorcycle taxi to the temple.

• Morning or late afternoon is recommended as the natural light better illuminates the details within the hall.

• If the hall is locked, you can politely ask the monks or temple caretaker to open it for viewing.

• Please disable your camera's flash when taking photos inside to prevent damage to the ancient mineral pigments.

• Take a walk around the old chedis to observe the different architectural styles from various eras.

Admission Fee

• Local visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

• Foreign visitors: Adult Free, Child Free

Opening Hours

• Open daily from 08:30 – 16:30.