Wat Yai Suwannaram Worawihan (Wat Yai)

This third-class royal temple dates back to the Ayutthaya period and was formerly known as Wat Noi Pak Tai. The temple grounds contain numerous points of interest, most notably the Thai-style sermon hall, constructed entirely of teak and roofed with kabu tiles. Late Ayutthaya architecture is characterized by distinctive carved wooden doors with cracks, said to have been caused by Burmese teeth. Another sacred object within the temple is Luang Pho Hok Niw, an Ayutthaya-style Buddha statue with six toes on its right foot. It is believed that the wishes of those who pay homage to it will be granted. There is also an Ayutthaya-style ubosot (ordination hall) adorned with beautiful murals, as well as a water-filled library.

Location: Tha Rap Subdistrict, Mueang Phetchaburi District, Phetchaburi Province

Status: Royal Monastery of the Third Class, Worawihan Type

History: The temple, formerly known as "Wat Noi Pak Tai," underwent extensive renovations by Somdej Phra Sangkharat (Tangmo) or Somdej Phra Suwannamuni, a native of Phetchaburi who had previously studied at the temple. As a result, the temple became known as "Wat Yai Suwannaram." During the reign of King Rama V, the temple was elevated to the status of a royal temple.

Interesting and noteworthy features

The temple's architecture reflects the style of the Ayutthaya period and is constructed of brick and mortar. It features a curved, ship-shaped base.

Wall paintings: Inside are exquisite wall paintings, believed to be at least 300 years old. They depict a five-tiered arrangement of deities and guardian figures at the doors and windows.

The main Buddha statue: This is a Buddha statue from the Ayutthaya period in the Mara Vijaya pose, with a Luang Pho statue approximately 15 cm tall in the background. This Buddha statue is unique in that it has six toes.

This building, constructed entirely of teak wood, is said to have been commissioned by King Suea of ​​Ayutthaya to serve as the audience hall.

It possesses high historical and artistic value from the Ayutthaya period.

Among the interesting features are carved door panels, inlaid tendril ornaments, gilded tendril ornaments, and legendary traces of axe-like blows on the doors.

The pulpit is a beautifully carved, lacquered and gilded pavilion.

This Thai-style hall is situated in the middle of a pond where the Tripitaka is kept.

Wat Yai Suwannaram is a center of handicrafts in Phetchaburi. It is an important site that reflects the area's former wealth of art and culture. If you would like information about other temples or attractions in Phetchaburi, such as Phra Nakhon Khiri (Khao Wang) or Wat Mahathat, please contact us. Address: 88 Phongsuriya Road, Tha Rap Subdistrict, Mueang Phetchaburi District, Phetchaburi Province. Tel.: 08 9239 9973