Sala Daeng Temple is an ancient temple with a long and significant history in Saraburi Province. It is believed to have been established around 1768 during the late Ayutthaya period continuing into the early Rattanakosin era. Originally, the temple was known as “Wat Kaeng Muang,” a name derived from the local geography, as the riverbank area once featured rocky rapids and large mango trees that provided shade and a pleasant resting environment for travelers.

Later, severe flooding swept away both the rock rapids and the large mango trees, leaving behind only a rest pavilion with a red-tiled roof. This pavilion served as a resting place for travelers and pilgrims journeying to pay respect to the Buddha’s Footprint and Phra Phutthachai. Because the red-roofed pavilion became a prominent landmark, local people gradually began calling the temple “Wat Sala Daeng,” a name that has remained in use to this day.

The greatest significance of Sala Daeng Temple lies in its enshrinement of Phra Phuttha Nirokkhantarai Chaiwat Chaturathit, commonly known as the “Four Guardian Buddhas.” This sacred Buddha image is one of four statues created by the Territorial Defence Department as an offering of devotion and loyalty to the monarchy. In 1968, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) graciously bestowed this Buddha image upon Saraburi Province to serve as the guardian Buddha of the eastern direction, while the other three statues are enshrined in Lampang, Phatthalung, and Ratchaburi provinces.

The architectural features within Sala Daeng Temple are notable for their elegant Thai design, especially the Chaturamuk Hall, a beautifully proportioned Thai-style structure with a refined spire-topped roof. This hall enshrines Phra Phuttha Nirokkhantarai Chaiwat Chaturathit and serves as a focal point for worshippers seeking blessings for good health, protection, and prosperity.

In addition, the temple houses an old ordination hall with a calm and serene atmosphere, ideal for meditation and religious practice. Inside is a principal Buddha image in the Subduing Mara posture, dating back to 1921. There is also a separate pavilion for Buddha images representing the days of birth, allowing devotees to pay respect according to their birth day. Due to its location near the local market and the Pak Phriao community, Sala Daeng Temple functions as a spiritual center for the people of Saraburi, with visitors continually coming to make merit, worship, and find peace of mind throughout the day.

Private Car:

• Located in Mueang Saraburi, Pak Phriao subdistrict. Accessible via Phichai Ronnarong Songkhram Rd or the road along the railway. The temple is close to the Saraburi Railway Station.

Public Transport:

• Easily accessible by local city buses or Songthaews.

Worship:

• It is recommended to start by paying respects to the Phra Phuttha Nirarokhantarai in the cruciform pavilion for good fortune.

Ambiance:

• The temple area is quite spacious and divided into old and new sections, perfect for a peaceful walk to admire traditional Thai architecture.

Nearby Activities:

• Since it is located in the city center, you can easily walk to the nearby Pak Phriao market for local food after your visit.

Admission Fee

• Free entry

Opening Hours

• Open daily: 07:00 – 17:00