“Pay respects to the Buddha’s relics within the Grand 500-Pagoda Stupa decorated in gold, and view the largest carved stone reclining Buddha in Saraburi.”
Pa Sawang Bun Temple is located in Kaeng Khoi District, Saraburi Province, and is regarded as one of the most beautiful and well-known temples in central Thailand. Founded by Luang Phor Somchai Punyamano, the temple covers an expansive area of more than 400 rai and is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and a tranquil natural environment. This peaceful setting makes it an ideal place for meditation, spiritual practice, and quiet reflection.
The most prominent landmark of the temple is Phra Maha Chedi Si Trilokathat, widely known as the “Five Hundred-Spired Pagoda.” At its center stands a massive principal chedi, encircled by smaller chedis arranged in concentric layers, totaling 500 spires. The orderly repetition of countless golden chedis creates a breathtaking visual impact and represents a rare example of contemporary Buddhist architecture in Thailand.
What makes this grand chedi particularly special is its golden decoration and highly refined design. Enshrined within the main chedi are sacred relics of the Buddha, brought from India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. This sacred feature elevates the site into an important spiritual center and a revered destination for Buddhist devotees from across the country.
Beyond the Five Hundred-Spired Pagoda, the temple also houses Phra Phuttha Sihasaiyas, a reclining Buddha statue carved from stone and measuring approximately 10.59 meters in length. The statue displays a serene and gentle expression, symbolizing peace and enlightenment. In addition, a large meditation hall, constructed from wood and natural materials, reflects the temple’s emphasis on simplicity, seclusion, and inner cultivation.
The atmosphere throughout the temple grounds is filled with calmness and spiritual serenity. Cool mountain breezes flow through the area, providing a refreshing climate even on hot days. Surrounded by green forests and mountain ranges, the golden chedis rising above the landscape create a sense of escape from worldly distractions, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in tranquility and mindfulness.
For photographers and content creators, Pa Sawang Bun Temple offers a premium location, as the repetition of hundreds of chedi spires produces striking visual depth and symmetry. The scene is especially captivating during sunrise and sunset, when golden light reflects off the chedis. Meanwhile, families and merit-makers often visit to offer alms, make merit, and walk in meditation around the grand chedi to cultivate blessings and inner peace.
Pa Sawang Bun Temple is therefore not merely a religious tourist attraction, but a sacred space of faith, calmness, and inspiration—demonstrating how spiritual devotion can give rise to magnificent architecture while nurturing the hearts and minds of those who visit.
How to Get There
Private Car:
- From Bangkok, take Phahonyothin Road, turn right onto Highway 3222 (towards Ban Na). Upon reaching Cha-om sub-district, look for the clear signs for Wat Pa Sawang Bun (the entrance is about 4-5 km from the main road).
Public Transport:
- Take a Bangkok-Ban Na van, get off at the Cha-om junction, and hire a local motorcycle taxi to the temple.
Travel Tips
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Recommended visiting times are early morning (08:00 - 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (04:00 - 05:00 PM) to catch the best light on the golden pagodas.
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Please dress politely (no short pants above the knee or sleeveless shirts) as it is a strict meditation site.
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Shoes must be removed in the pagoda area; consider bringing socks if visiting during the hot midday hours as the stone floor can get warm.
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The temple grounds are extensive; bringing an umbrella or hat is recommended for exploring different spots.
Admission Fee
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Local visitors: Free
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Foreign visitors: Free
Opening Hours
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Open Daily: 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM