Wat Bua Khwan is a private Buddhist temple belonging to the Mahayana sect, located in Lat Lum Kaeo Subdistrict, Lat Lum Kaeo District, Pathum Thani Province. This temple has long been a religious and cultural center for the Lat Lum Kaeo community. Registration records show the temple's founding dates back to the late reign of King Rama V, around 1881, reflecting its antiquity and close connection to the riverside community. Wat Bua Khwan retains the atmosphere of a traditional community temple in Pathum Thani Province, with its lush greenery, tranquility, and architectural style that harmoniously blends vernacular Thai art with modern structures.

A prominent feature of the temple is its location near an old canal in Lat Lum Kaeo. Historically, these canals were the main transportation routes for villagers, making the temple a center for religious activities, education, and a resting place for those traveling by water. The riverside community lifestyle can still be felt in the surrounding area, including traditional houses, a local market, and large trees providing shade along the canal banks. Walking within the temple, one finds a peaceful and simple atmosphere, a stark contrast to larger city temples. It's ideal for those seeking merit-making, worship, or spiritual relaxation in a tranquil rural setting near Bangkok.

Within the temple grounds are several important Buddhist artifacts and interesting architectural features, particularly the main chapel, the central hub for religious ceremonies, and the Buddha statue enshrined within, which is revered by the local community. The temple also features old wooden buildings reflecting traditional Thai architecture, a unique characteristic of community temples in central Thailand that is becoming increasingly rare. Local records mention "Sala Daeng," an ancient pavilion associated with the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, and "Phra Phom," a Buddha statue depicting asceticism created during the reign of King Rama V, considered an important artifact of the temple and a popular place of worship for devotees.

Wat Buakhwan plays a significant role in the Lad Lum Kaeo community, supporting traditional activities and annual merit-making events. Locals continue to participate in religious activities such as the annual gold leafing ceremony, Kathina robe offering ceremony, Songkran festival, and other merit-making activities on important Buddhist holidays. During temple fairs, the atmosphere is filled with local stalls, traditional food, and activities reflecting the traditional Thai temple fair lifestyle of the community in Pathum Thani province. Tourists visiting during the festival can experience both local culture and the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional community that still thrives.

Another charm of this temple is its location not far from the 100-Year-Old Rahang Market, an old community market along the canal. This allows tourists to plan a cultural tour within a single day, including paying respects to the Buddha, making merit, admiring the old architecture, and sampling local Pathum Thani cuisine. With its convenient location from Bangkok, Wat Buakhwan is ideal for day trips and for those interested in learning about old communities and ancient temples in the lower Chao Phraya River basin.

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How to Get There

• From Bangkok, take the Bang Bua Thong-Suphan Buri road (Highway 340) toward Lat Lum Kaeo. Turn onto Highway 346 and follow the signs for Wat Bua Khwan or Rahaeng Market.

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Travel Tips

• Dress politely and appropriately when visiting the temple.

• Morning visits are recommended for cooler weather and peaceful surroundings.

• Weekdays are quieter and ideal for relaxation and meditation.

• You can combine the trip with a visit to Rahaeng 100-Year Market.

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Admission fees:

• Free admission.

Opening Hours:

• 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM