Wat Phra Si An

Wat Phra Si An is located at Soi Sukkhaphiban 8, Mu 9, Tambon Ban Lueak, on an area of approximately 40 rai. Formerly, it was named Wat Sa-an. The temple was surmised to be built in 1732. It was deserted. Later, its small dilapidated Ubosot of 7.75 m wide and 15 m long was found with the old principal image made of bricks, and a large pond to the north. In 1932, monks started to stay at the temple. Its name was changed to Wat Phra Si An in 1957. Presently, it houses Phra Ubosot Thongkham Roi Lan or the ordination hall of one hundred million Baht of gold. The golden Ubosot (ordination hall) is in the style of art of the late Ayutthaya period, decorated with stucco designs and paintings of the stories of Maha Janaka Jataka, the Ten Incarnations of the Lord Buddha, and the Five Buddhas. The principal Buddha image within the ordination hall is in the posture of subduing Mara. This Burmese-style white jade image was taken from Burma. Another image is Phra Si An or Ariya Mettaya which is an ancient Buddha image with prominent features: a preaching fan is in front of the image and the robe-wearing style is similar to that of the image in the Gandhara period. This sacred image is worshipped by the public. Cannon-ball trees from India have been grown in the temple. Buddhism activities; namely, Dharma camp and art of speaking camp, are held for children and youth. For More information, please call Tel: 0 3223 2595 or http://phrasian.spaces.live.com How to get there: Take the route to Amphoe Photharam on Highway 3080, around 500 kilometres. from the Bang Phae Intersection.