San Pu Ta Shrine and Lotus Field Bridge stand as a spiritual and natural focal point for the community in Ban Prasat Tai, Non Sung District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. This location is renowned for seamlessly blending ancient local beliefs with stunning natural scenery.

The Belief and Sacredness of San Pu Ta Shrine

The San Pu Ta Shrine is nestled under the shade of a colossal tamarind tree believed to be centuries old (some sources suggest over 300 years old). This massive tree, so large it takes several people to embrace it, symbolizes stability and serves as the dwelling place of the sacred entity known as Pu Ta (Ancestral Spirit). The villagers deeply believe that Pu Ta is the powerful ancestral spirit who has protected the community, ensuring peace and prosperity for generations. As a sign of devotion, grand annual offering ceremonies are conducted every April to ask for forgiveness and blessings, praying for the village to be free from misfortune, to enjoy abundant resources, and for a happy life, particularly concerning water and agricultural yields.

Worshippers who visit typically bring traditional offerings. They come to pray for success in various aspects, including business, career advancement, and even fortune. Before departing, local residents traditionally touch and rub the trunk of the tamarind tree, believing they will receive power and auspicious blessings from Pu Ta.

The Landscape of the Lotus Field Bridge and Than Prasat Reservoir

Adjacent to the shrine is the area surrounding the Than Prasat Reservoir, a significant natural and historical site, and the location of the Lotus Field Bridge, also affectionately known locally as the "Love Calling Bridge" (Saphan Takon Rak). This wooden bridge gracefully stretches across the water, seamlessly connecting the two sides of the community. The bridge’s simple construction harmonizes perfectly with nature, making it a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.

What makes this location truly spectacular is the dense patch of lotus flowers (Bu Luang) that blooms en masse across the water surface, usually from the rainy season through the end of the year (approximately October to January). In the early morning, when the soft sunlight gently touches the blooming pink lotuses, it creates an exquisitely beautiful and romantic scene. This beautiful panorama is the source of the name "Love Calling Bridge," signifying the joy and heartfelt emotion evoked by the view.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Than Prasat Reservoir holds historical and spiritual significance. It is recognized as one of the nine sacred water sources across Thailand whose water was historically used in the Coronation Ceremonies of the King, highlighting the region's fertility and ritual importance. Visitors, therefore, are not just touring a natural attraction but are also connecting with the roots of local belief and history.

Community and Way of Life

A visit to the San Pu Ta Shrine and the Lotus Field Bridge also offers an opportunity to witness the traditional way of life of the Ban Prasat Tai community living alongside the reservoir. The local people continue to rely on the water and land for their livelihoods. Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon may allow you to observe villagers fishing or engaging in the simple life by the water, which is a rare and charming sight in a rapidly modernizing society.

• Personal Check: Follow Mittraphap Road (Highway 2) from Nakhon Ratchasima City towards Non Sung District to check the local route to Ban Prasat Tai, or follow signs to Wat Samanmit, the bridge checkpoint, and the Pu Ta Monument.

• Note: GPS directions to Wat Samanmit or Ban Yan Tai are key landmarks.

• Best time to visit: You can admire its beauty from the rainy season to the end of the year (primarily January), when the light is at its most beautiful in the early morning.

• Dress Code: It is important to dress modestly when visiting the Pu Ta monument.

• Note: Following the beliefs and practices of the Pu Ta shrine is strictly a matter of belief in the shrine itself.

Admission Fees:

• No admission fee

Opening Hours:

• Opening hours are approximately 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM. It is recommended to travel during the day or early morning to see the lotus flowers (if available).