Secrets of Wat Phra Si Arn
Here’s another gem (literally and figuratively) of a place we found while randomly driving around the back roads of rural Ratchaburi province, Wat Phra Si Arn. Surrounded by forests and rocky outcrops which are home to marauding monkeys, this temple is quiet, beautiful, and hiding something special.
Established during the Ayuddhya period in 1732, it’s tranquil location is perfect for meditation and practicing Dharma. The original buildings have almost entirely disappeared but some remains are visible at the end of a marble footpath in a wooded area close by. The temple offers the unparalleled essence of Thai culture and spirituality.
100 Million Baht and 37 Years Later
The awesome golden chapel (Bot) that you see today took 37 years to complete from the start in 1967, not surprising when you see the beautiful gold hand crafted decoration on the exterior up close – it’s known as the 100 million Baht temple!
While the exterior might make your jaw drop, the absolutely mind boggling interior might make it drop off altogether. It’s like stepping into another dimension, and very few rural temples can come anywhere near the traditional breathtaking murals and intricate workmanship of every part of it.
Just as you go in, look up at the multi layered jigsaw of the roof over the doorway. That is just the first of so many wonderful sights here, including hand painted murals on the walls, elaborate pillars with fine detailing, and the sensational window frames.
So What Are The Secrets of Wat Phra Si Arn
That fact that such an amazing, beautifully decorated and costly temple is sitting virtually in the middle of nowhere, makes it a secret on its own, but before we tell you a bit more, let’s see some more of the interior.
The real Secrets of Wat Phra Si Arn are facing you at the far end of this incredible chapel. Amongst the numerous Buddha images that worshippers come to pay their respects to, are two unique and rare seated Buddhas, one in a glass case.
In the video above, you can see a white Buddha image above an elaborate gold Buddha image in a glass case. The white one is made from pure white Burmese jade, while the other is made from solid gold. Their value is unknown and must exceed many millions of Thai Baht, but the true value is what they mean to those that come to pay their respects, and make merit for their families and deceased relatives.
Getting There:
You’ll need your own transport to get here, but it’s worth it. The Google maps location is 139 PV6R+GC3 Ban Lueak, Photharam District, Ratchaburi. You could combine this with an evening visit to the incredible Na Satta Light Show in Photharam town for a memorable day out.
The temple has adequate parking but the toilets are better avoided.
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