Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai: the temple of Luang Pho To and its old market, hours and access
Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai is an old temple in Bang Phli, in neighbouring Samut Prakan province, about 30 kilometres south-east of central Bangkok. It houses Luang Pho To, a gilded bronze Buddha of about three metres in Sukhothai style, which legend says rose out of the water of the Samrong canal in the Ayutthaya period. The temple stands behind the old Bang Phli market, beside a canal: people come for a half-day without tourists, halfway between local devotion and a neighbourhood market. According to the information we read, entry is free and the temple is open every day from 8am to 5pm.
Highlights
Luang Pho To
In the shrine, the gilded Buddha is covered with gold-leaf offerings placed by worshippers. Locals come to pray, light candles and sit quietly; go in discreetly and barefoot.
The golden chedi and the pavilions
Around the courtyard rise a golden chedi and halls with tiered roofs in Thai style. The place mostly serves the people of Bang Phli.
The old Bang Phli market
The lanes behind the temple hold a local market with stalls of Thai food, desserts and religious items. You eat cheaply and mostly meet residents.
The neighbouring temple, Wat Bang Phli Yai Klang
Nearby, another temple holds one of the largest reclining Buddhas in the country, about 53 metres long. Do not confuse the two: they are close but separate, and you can visit both on the same outing.
Practical info
Tips
- Free entry and hours of 8am to 5pm according to the information we read; a donation is customary. Temple dress code applies (shoulders and knees covered, see our temple dress guide). Avoid weekends and Buddhist holidays if you want quiet: the site is then very busy.
How to get there
Bang Phli, Samut Prakan province, behind the old Bang Phli market, near Thepharak Road. The easiest way is a taxi or a Grab from the centre (about 30 km, time varies with traffic; see Grab or taxi in Bangkok). Local buses and songthaews also serve Bang Phli: ask for "Talat Bang Phli" (the market).
Opening hours
Nearby
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