Rating: 4.5/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00–17.00

 

Wat Pa Pradu is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Rayong Province. Located along Sukhumvit Road in Rayong City, the temple was originally called “Wat Pa Lelai” and is believed to have been built during the Ayutthaya period. Today, it is recognized as a royal monastery and a significant cultural and religious landmark, best known for housing a unique reclining Buddha image lying on its left side—a rare posture in Thailand.

 

For centuries, Wat Pa Pradu has served as both a religious center and a cultural hub for the local community. It remains a place where faith, tradition, and art come together. Within its grounds are several ancient and sacred structures that continue to attract devotees and tourists alike.

 

The temple’s highlight is the large Reclining Buddha (Phra Phuttha Saiyas), measuring 11.95 meters long and 3.60 meters high, depicted in the left reclining position. Unlike most reclining Buddha statues in Thailand, which lie on the right side, this Buddha image is an exceptional representation of Buddhist art. Originally enshrined outdoors, it was later sheltered by a viharn (hall) built in 1981 (B.E. 2524) to protect and preserve the statue.

 

Inside the viharn, visitors experience a tranquil and sacred atmosphere. Devotees come to pay respects and make offerings of flowers, incense, and candles, believing it will bring peace, prosperity, and success in life. Seeing the rare left-side reclining Buddha up close is a remarkable and memorable spiritual experience.

 

Another significant feature of the temple is the ancient Buddha image in the Lelai posture, seated with both feet hanging down. This image is considered to be as old as the temple itself and holds great historical and religious value. Worshippers believe that paying respects to this Buddha image brings blessings and merit.

 

One of the most popular practices at Wat Pa Pradu is “crawling under the old ordination hall,” which was built during the early Rattanakosin period. Locals and visitors believe that passing beneath the hall removes misfortune, brings good luck, and enhances one’s spiritual well-being. This activity has become a signature tradition of the temple and a must-do ritual for tourists seeking auspicious experiences.

 

The old ordination hall also showcases architectural and artistic craftsmanship from the past. Despite centuries of wear, its traditional design and details reflect the skill and dedication of early builders. Preserving this ordination hall not only honors religious traditions but also safeguards Thailand’s cultural heritage.

 

As a royal temple, Wat Pa Pradu continues to host important Buddhist ceremonies such as Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Buddhist Lent, and the annual Kathin ceremony. These events draw large numbers of worshippers and reinforce the temple’s role as a spiritual and community gathering place.

 

Located conveniently on Sukhumvit Road, the temple is easily accessible and has become a landmark for both locals and visitors. Its central location makes it a prominent stop for cultural tourism in Rayong Province. Whether for religious merit-making, sightseeing, or learning about history, Wat Pa Pradu offers a complete and meaningful experience.

 

Visitors can also combine a trip to Wat Pa Pradu with nearby attractions such as the Rayong City Museum, Wat Khod Tim Tharam with its historic ubosot, and the Old Riverside Market with its nostalgic charm. Together, these destinations provide a rich cultural journey in Rayong.

 

In summary, Wat Pa Pradu is not only a sacred temple but also a heritage site that reflects the faith, artistry, and cultural wisdom of past generations. Paying respects to the unique left-reclining Buddha, worshipping the ancient Lelai Buddha image, and joining the ritual of crawling under the old ordination hall are experiences that leave lasting impressions for visitors to Rayong Province.

 

 

A: It is believed to have been constructed during the Ayutthaya period.

 

A: It is a large reclining Buddha, 11.95 meters long and 3.60 meters high, lying on its left side—a rare depiction in Thailand.

 

A: It was originally called “Wat Pa Lelai” before being renamed Wat Pa Pradu.

 

A: Locals believe it removes misfortune and brings blessings, making it a popular ritual for visitors.

 

A: Yes, it is conveniently located on Sukhumvit Road in Rayong City and is easily accessible by car or public transport.