Wat Thewa Sangkharam (Wat Nuea) is an ancient temple whose historical development is closely linked to the establishment of Kanchanaburi city in the early Rattanakosin period. It is believed to have been founded around 1805, following the relocation of the city center to Pak Phraek, a strategic area along the Mae Klong River (Khwae Yai River).During the reign of King Rama III, the temple underwent a major renovation, including the construction of the current ordination hall, which reflects early Rattanakosin architectural style. It features a harmonious design with elegant proportions, combining simplicity with refined decorative details such as stucco work and traditional Thai architectural elements.The temple complex contains several important historical and religious structures, especially the old vihara housing a red sandstone Buddha image, which reflects late Ayutthaya artistic influence. The sculpture style emphasizes serenity and realism in accordance with classical Buddhist art traditions.

Another key feature is the twelve-cornered (multi-faceted) chedi, a form popular in the early Rattanakosin period. It symbolizes the Buddhist cosmological universe and sacredness through its balanced geometric structure and rhythm.The temple is also historically significant in Thai monastic history, as it is the ordination site of Somdet Phra Sangharaja Chao Krom Luang Vajirananavarorasa (Charoen Suvaddhano), the 19th Supreme Patriarch of Thailand. A memorial hall has been established to preserve his relics, documents, and life story for public education.

In terms of art, the temple is distinguished by mural paintings inside the old ordination hall, depicting Buddhist stories and traditional Thai life in fine detail, executed in a classical folk painting style that preserves traditional Thai identity. The gable end of the ordination hall is decorated with stucco reliefs of Narayana riding Garuda, a symbolic motif representing cosmology and the protection of Buddhism in early Rattanakosin art.

• Dress modestly as it is a royal temple.

• Pay respect to the Phra Phuttha Suthimongkhon Buddha image for good fortune.

• Don’t miss the Bodhi tree planted during King Rama IX’s visit.

• You can also walk to the nearby riverside viewpoint for scenery.