Rating: 2.6/5 (29 votes)

Open Days: Every day

Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00

 

Wat Thammasathit is a Dhammayut forest-tradition monastery set on a hillside in Samnak Thong Subdistrict, Mueang Rayong. It is known for its quiet, serene atmosphere, surrounded by open woodland and hillside breezes throughout the day. Visitors can spot the white stupa on the ridge from afar — Phra Chedi Si Thammasathit — the temple’s principal shrine that enshrines Buddha relics and anchors the contemplative character of this place.

 

Rooted in the practice lineage of Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta, Wat Thammasathit preserves the hallmarks of the Thai forest tradition: simple, clean, and unobtrusive architecture that supports the cultivation of the mind rather than ornamental display. The ubosot (ordination hall), multipurpose pavilion, monks’ quarters, and walking paths are arranged to blend with the hill’s terrain, leaving generous space for nature to be the “primary teacher.” Stepping into the grounds often feels like setting down the weight of the day and allowing attention to settle, gently and naturally.

 

The current abbot is Phra Khru Samuh Suchin Paripunno, who oversees both monastic duties and the community’s daily contemplative rhythm. This is not a “check-in” spot for sightseeing; it is a place for practice. Please observe courtesies appropriate to a forest monastery: modest dress in calm tones, phones on silent, soft voices, shoes off before entering buildings, and mindfulness toward those walking meditation or sitting in contemplation nearby.

 

The key focal point of faith is the ridge-top Phra Chedi Si Thammasathit. From the lower courtyard, the stupa’s white surface contrasts beautifully with the sky on clear days, with dawn and dusk painting gentle shadow gradients across its form. If you enjoy photography, choose respectful angles that do not disturb monastic activities or practitioners, avoid flash, and refrain from using drones unless explicitly permitted.

 

Getting there is straightforward. From Rayong city, drive about 19 km, then turn left onto “Ton Lamduan Road” and continue roughly 6–8 km to the temple area. In the final stretch you’ll see the white stupa on the ridge to your left — a clear sign you are close. Those without a car can hire a local taxi/driver from the city and pre-arrange pick-up and drop-off, especially on Buddhist holy days or festival periods when more visitors are expected.

 

The temple is ideal for a personal “quiet day,” whether a half-day or a simple day retreat. A light routine might begin with paying respects at the shrine, then three to five minutes of slow breathing to collect attention, followed by a short walking-meditation loop under shade and a 15–20 minute sitting. Alternate gentle walking and sitting according to your capacity. Late morning, the ridge-top terrace around the stupa offers expansive views; let the wind on your cheeks remind you to be present. In the heat of the afternoon, rest in a pavilion or under trees before taking one more quiet breathing pause prior to departure.

 

Seasonally, paths can be slick after rainfall; shoes with good rubber grip are recommended and extra care on slopes helps. In the hot season the mid-day sun is strong, so bring a wide-brim hat/umbrella and water. For softer light and a calmer mood, come early morning or late afternoon close to closing time. The hilltop setting usually offers a steady, pleasant breeze, with crisp mornings from cool season into early hot season being especially conducive to practice.

 

Forest-temple etiquette prioritizes simplicity and silence. Quiet conversation, giving space to those practicing, and carrying your rubbish out are all forms of practice in themselves. Families can adapt activities by age: children can try a short “listening to silence” exercise — ten to fifteen seconds with eyes closed, then share what sounds they noticed — while elders may enjoy slow, shaded walking paired with gentle breath awareness.

 

Even without elaborate landmarks, Wat Thammasathit works well as a “natural classroom” for beginners. A basic technique: count gently from one to five on the in-breath and again on the out-breath for three to five rounds, just to steady the mind; then let go of counting and simply feel the breath. If the mind wanders, begin again kindly. Walking meditation needn’t be long: feel the foot lift–move–place with relaxed attention.

 

The temple’s quiet beauty lies in being a pause — a wholesome space where the mind can breathe. Many visitors find that, after a few quiet minutes beneath the trees or by the stupa terrace, the tightly knotted thoughts of the day begin to loosen. Sometimes a brief gaze at the sky above the stupa is enough to return to the world with a softer, steadier attitude.

 

For a contemplative day in Rayong, you can pair Wat Thammasathit with nearby forest-lineage sites such as Wat Marp Jan, and later continue to nature viewpoints like Khao Laem Ya for a balanced hill-to-sea itinerary — practice in the morning, ocean horizon in the evening.

 

 

A: Visitors seeking a quiet space for respectful worship and simple meditation, or anyone wishing to take a gentle “quiet day” away from busyness.

 

A: Early morning and late afternoon offer soft light, cooler air, and a steady hill breeze that supports mindfulness.

 

A: Yes in general areas, with respect. Avoid flash and drones, do not disturb ceremonies or practitioners, and follow any signs or guidance on site.

 

A: Dress modestly, wear shoes easy to remove, bring drinking water and sun protection during hot periods, and take extra care on wet paths in the rainy season.

 

A: Hire a local taxi/driver from Rayong city and pre-arrange pick-up and drop-off. Tell the driver your destination is “Wat Thammasathit, Ton Lamduan Road.”

 

A: In some cases, yes. It’s best to check in advance regarding guidelines, etiquette, and space availability.

 

A: No entrance fee. Offerings are by personal faith. If you wish to donate items, ask what is most helpful for the temple’s needs.

 

A: Loud conversation, lingering group chats in practice zones, leaving belongings scattered, smoking, and littering should all be avoided.

 

A: The ridge-top terrace around the stupa and the shaded areas near the pavilion are ideal for slow breathing and listening to the forest’s quiet.