Wat Chuthathittham Sapharam Worawihan is a third-class royal temple (Worawihan) located in Tha Thewawong Subdistrict, Ko Sichang District, Chonburi Province. It sits prominently at both the head and base of Khao Khaya Sira Hill, near Thewawong Pier, making it one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks on Ko Sichang. The temple serves not only as a sacred site for locals but also as a historical and spiritual destination for visitors to the island.

 

The temple’s origins trace back to the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV), who ordered Chao Phraya Thipakornwong Mahakosathibodi (Kham Bunnag) to build a temple at a cape, which today is the location of a telegraph station. Later, during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), when the king frequently visited and stayed on Ko Sichang, the temple was relocated to the area now known as Wat Asdangkhanimitr. However, as that site was within the royal compound, it was not practical for public religious use. Therefore, King Chulalongkorn ordered the temple to be moved again to its present location at Tha Phanurangsi, assigning it the important responsibility of taking care of the Buddha’s footprint on the slope of Khao Khaya Sira, a sacred site that has long been venerated on the island.

 

As Ko Sichang developed, especially after the construction of Asdang Road, many locals moved from their original floating house settlements to the northern tip of the island. This created challenges for the community to travel to the old temple for religious activities. To address this, King Chulalongkorn graciously ordered the establishment of a new temple to make it easier for residents to participate in merit-making and almsgiving. The temple was also founded to commemorate Prince Chudadhuj Dharadilok, the king’s son, and was officially named “Wat Chuthathittham Sapharam” on July 9, 1892. The name reflects both auspiciousness and prosperity.

 

Initially, the temple had no proper ordination hall. In 1934, royal permission was granted for Phra Khru Sutthirat, a monk from Wat Klang in Samut Prakan Province, to become the abbot. Through his dedicated efforts, the ordination hall (ubosot) was eventually constructed. The principal Buddha image enshrined within the ubosot is in the Sukhothai style, beautifully crafted with a lap width of 97 centimeters and a total height of 1.25 meters. This image has become a central object of devotion for both local worshippers and visiting pilgrims.

 

The temple is home to several sacred and culturally significant features. Most notable is the replica of the Buddha’s footprint on Khao Khaya Sira, which symbolizes the island’s deep spiritual connection to Buddhism. Other structures within the temple complex include a pagoda (chedi), a bell tower, and other important religious buildings. The temple grounds also offer scenic viewpoints overlooking the sea and surrounding landscapes, creating a peaceful atmosphere that blends spirituality with natural beauty.

 

In addition to its religious role, Wat Chuthathittham Sapharam Worawihan hosts significant annual events such as the Royal Kathina Ceremony, where various government agencies, including the Ministry of Labor, participate. These events help foster unity among the community and preserve important Buddhist traditions. They also attract many visitors, keeping the temple vibrant and deeply connected to local culture.

 

Today, Wat Chuthathittham Sapharam Worawihan stands as a symbol of Ko Sichang’s history, faith, and heritage. It is a must-visit destination for travelers who wish to pay respect to the sacred Buddha’s footprint, admire the temple’s architecture, and experience the island’s rich spiritual and cultural atmosphere. For many, visiting this temple offers a meaningful journey of reflection and connection, making it one of the most treasured landmarks in Chonburi Province.