Sam Chuk Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located along the Tha Chin River in Sam Chuk District, Suphan Buri Province. It is believed to have been established more than 500 years ago. Originally, local villagers called it “Wat Amphawan” before its name was later changed to Wat Sam Chuk, in accordance with the name of the subdistrict. For centuries, the temple has played an important role in the riverside community as a center of religion, education, and social gatherings.

The historical significance of Sam Chuk Temple was highlighted in 1955, when His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (Rama IX), together with Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, traveled by royal barge and visited the local people at this temple. This royal visit brought immense joy to the people of Sam Chuk and stands as an important historical record reflecting the close bond between the Thai monarchy and local communities.

One of the temple’s most important highlights is Luang Pho Thammachak, a sacred Buddha image from the U Thong period in the posture of Preventing Relatives from Fighting. This revered image has long been a spiritual anchor for the local community and represents early Thai Buddhist art characterized by simplicity and profound compassion. The temple also houses a bronze replica of the Buddha’s footprint, featuring four overlapping footprints intricately decorated with 108 auspicious symbols. This artifact has been officially registered as an ancient object by the Fine Arts Department. In addition, an ancient bronze swan, a symbolic emblem of the temple’s former prosperity, is enshrined within the sacred compound.

The atmosphere of Sam Chuk Temple is peaceful, shaded, and deeply connected to the traditional riverside lifestyle of the Tha Chin River. Within the temple grounds is the Sam Chuk Temple Museum, which displays historical artifacts and everyday items from the past, such as pottery dating back thousands of years, bullet-shaped silver coins, and an ancient betel nut cutter once used by a former abbot. These exhibits provide visitors with valuable insights into local history and traditional wisdom.

For those interested in architecture and education, the temple also features important historical structures, including a square-shaped mondop and the old wooden building of Sam Chuk Temple School, which was constructed in 1936 and has been carefully preserved. Sam Chuk Temple is therefore an ideal destination for making merit, learning about history, and finding inner peace in an environment that emphasizes genuine faith and Buddhist teachings rather than commercialized practices.

Private Car:

• From Suphan Buri city center, take Highway 340 (Suphan Buri-Chai Nat) towards Sam Chuk. The temple is about 600 meters from the main road, near the Sam Chuk District Office.

Tour Boat:

• You can hire a boat from the Sam Chuk 100-Year Market pier to the front of the temple to enjoy the scenic views of both sides of the Tha Chin River.

Best Visiting Season:

• Open daily year-round. It is recommended to visit in the morning for maximum tranquility or as a stop after visiting the Sam Chuk 100-Year Market.

Attire:

• Dress politely to show respect when entering the ordination hall and the Mondop.

Photography:

• Photos of the architecture and artifacts are allowed, but please remain respectful and do not disturb those practicing meditation.

Food & Culture:

• After your visit, head to the nearby Sam Chuk 100-Year Market to try the famous "Giant Meatballs" and other local delicacies.

Admission Fee

• Local and Foreign visitors: Free entry

Opening Hours

• Daily: 09:00 – 18:00