Wat Phra Phutthachai

📍 Location of Wat Phra Phutthachai 🚘 Directions to Wat Phra Phutthachai

About Wat Phra Phutthachai

The temple, perched on an expansive rock overlooking the plains near Saraburi, is a sight to behold. Its location offers excellent views of the surrounding landscape, making it a picturesque spot for those who appreciate natural beauty. However, visitors should be prepared for the commercial aspects of the site, such as parking fees at the top of the mountain.

The temple is also home to a large population of monkeys. These creatures swarm over the rock outcrops, adding a unique element to the experience. However, it's important to note that many of these monkeys are in poor health due to the common practice of visitors feeding them inappropriate food. Despite this, the presence of these primates can add a lively touch to the visit.

The temple itself is a stunning vision in ivory and cream, appearing to float above the mortal world. Its beauty is captivating and leaves a lasting impression on those who visit. The temple is not just a place of worship, but also a sanctuary for monkeys. The locals live harmoniously with these creatures, not bothering them in their natural habitat.

One of the most interesting features of the temple is the image of Buddha on the wall and the footprint. This footprint, believed to be 500 years old, is a significant attraction for visitors. The temple is located 10 kilometers from Saraburi town, and on the cliff below is PRA CHAI - The shadow of Lord Buddha. The Buddhist scripts tell the story of a hunter named Kataka who asked for Buddha's imprint during his visit.

The temple also houses the Reclining Buddha image, the Royal Signature of King Rama V, King Rama IX, and the royal family, as well as rishi caves. On the hilltop, an Ayutthaya mondop with five spires covers the natural footprint of Lord Buddha on stone. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy the scenery of Saraburi town and the surrounding mountains. The Samlan waterfall National Park is also visible from here.

The journey to the top of the temple can be quite a challenge, especially from the market side. The stairs are high and it may take some time to reach the top. However, the breathtaking view from the top is well worth the effort. Visitors can reach the temple by mini van from Saraburi, with the last mini van back to Saraburi departing at 3.30pm.

Visiting the temple can be a special experience, especially on significant occasions such as birthdays. The sense of peace and happiness that one can experience here is truly unique. It's a place where one can pay respect, find tranquility, and feel good. The temple, with its stunning beauty, interesting features, and unique monkey population, is definitely a must-visit for anyone near Saraburi.