“Experience the tranquil atmosphere of Bueng Wat Phet, a vital water source for the Sao Hai people located adjacent to Wat Phet—a temple with over 700 years of history. It serves as a major site for releasing fish species to maintain Saraburi's ecosystem.”
Bueng Wat Phet is a large natural pond located alongside Wat Phet, an old community temple in Ban Yang Subdistrict, Sao Hai District, Saraburi Province. It is believed that the temple was established around 1895 CE during the early Ayutthaya period, reflecting the long-standing history of this area as one of the region’s early settlements.
Bueng Wat Phet serves not only as a water reservoir for local agricultural use but also as a center for community-based and creative activities. One of its key roles is supporting projects aimed at increasing aquatic resources in natural water bodies. Various fish species, such as Java barb and silver barb, are regularly released into the pond to provide a sustainable protein source for the community and to help maintain ecological balance within the pond.
Beyond its natural significance, Wat Phet, which stands beside the pond, is notable for its historical value. In 1995, during the construction of a sermon hall, an ancient bronze bell was discovered buried more than 1.5 meters underground. This important archaeological find serves as strong evidence of the temple’s antiquity and reflects the long-standing religious devotion of people in this area.
Wat Phet is also well known among amulet collectors for the discovery of “Wat Phet amulets,” particularly the Pa Lelai Buddha amulets cast in silver-based alloy. These artifacts are valued for both their spiritual significance and historical importance, representing the temple’s former prominence.
The surroundings of Bueng Wat Phet offer a peaceful and shady atmosphere, making it an ideal place for relaxation, enjoying waterside scenery, or observing the daily lives of local residents who use the pond for various activities. Visitors can also enter Wat Phet to pay respect to the principal Buddha image inside the ordination hall for good fortune, while experiencing the simple and tranquil rural lifestyle of Sao Hai District.
How to Get There
Private Car:
- From Saraburi town, take Highway 3041 toward Sao Hai District. Turn into the road leading to Ban Yang Subdistrict (Highway 3225). Wat Phet and its reservoir are located along the road, with ample parking inside the temple.
Distance:
- Approximately 5–7 kilometers from Sao Hai District center.
Travel Tips
Popular Activities:
- Feeding the fish or participating in fish-releasing ceremonies during religious holidays are favorite local activities at this lake.
Nearby Places:
- You can continue your journey to the Thai-Yuan Folk Museum or the Ban Ton Tan Ancient Floating Market to experience more local culture in the same trip.
Photography:
- The evening hours before sunset provide beautiful light reflections on the surface of Bueng Wat Phet, making it a serene spot for nature photography.
Admission Fee
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Free entry
Opening Hours
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The lake and temple are open daily: 07:00 – 18:00