“Wat Ngio Rai is the historic origin of Taphan Hin’s name, enshrining the sacred Luang Pho Phutthaphichai amid a serene riverside atmosphere and traditional rural community life.”
Wat Ngio Rai is not only a spiritual center of the community but also a significant historical landmark of Taphan Hin District.
Historical Origins and the Birth of a District Name
Established in 1897 (B.E. 2440), the temple was originally called “Wat Taphan Hin.” In front of the temple, natural stone formations once lay across the canal, resembling a stone bridge, which later became the origin of the name “Taphan Hin District.” The temple was subsequently renamed Wat Ngio Rai after the subdistrict.
Luang Pho Phutthaphichai – The Sacred Heart of Faith
The temple enshrines Luang Pho Phutthaphichai, a principal Buddha image in the Maravijaya posture, deeply revered by locals. Worshippers often pray here for victory, success, and the removal of obstacles, reflecting the meaning of the name “Phutthaphichai” (Buddha of Victory).
Center for Buddhist Education and Community Life
Wat Ngio Rai plays an important educational role, hosting a Sunday Buddhist School since 1976, nurturing moral values and Buddhist teachings among generations of local youth.
Architecture and Riverside Atmosphere
The ordination hall has been restored in a simple yet dignified applied Thai architectural style. The temple grounds are clean and shaded with large trees, cooled by breezes from the canal flowing in front, making it ideal for merit-making, meditation, and peaceful reflection.
How to Get There
- By Private Car: From Phichit city, take Highway No. 113 (Phichit–Taphan Hin) toward Taphan Hin District, then continue on local roads to Ngio Rai Subdistrict. The temple is about 5–7 km from the district center, with fully paved access roads.
- By Local Taxi: Taxis are available from Taphan Hin Railway Station, offering a short and scenic ride through rice fields.
Travel Tips
- Photo Spot: The bridge crossing the canal in front of the temple offers beautiful reflections of the ordination hall on sunny days.
- Route Connection: Ideal for a southern Phichit route — Wat Bang Khlan (Luang Pho Ngern) → Wat Thewaprasat → Wat Ngio Rai.
- Visiting Etiquette: As a quiet meditation-focused temple, visitors should dress modestly and maintain respectful behavior.
Admission Fee:
- Free admission
Opening Hours:
- Open daily 08:00 – 17:00