Wat Chantharam, widely known as Wat Tha Sung, is located in Uthai Thani Province. This historic temple was originally established during the Ayutthaya period and featured a small ordination hall adorned with murals depicting the life of the Buddha, crafted by local artisans. These paintings, believed to have been created later than the original construction, have in some areas been extended or altered, yet they still reflect the exquisite folk artistry of the era. Among the temple’s treasured artifacts is the pulpit built by Luang Pho Yai, as well as plaster Buddha statues within the viharn (prayer hall), accompanied by intricately carved wooden gable decorations, remnants of which remain in two to three locations. Opposite the temple, a new sacred structure has been constructed, adding further significance to the surrounding area.

 

Wat Tha Sung covers an extensive area and has become a major center of religious devotion. Somdet Phra Rajaprommayan, also known as Luang Pho Ruesi Ling Dam, a highly revered monk, developed numerous buildings within the temple complex. The new ubosot (ordination hall) is exquisitely decorated, with windows and doors painted with celestial beings by skilled artists. The hall gained royal recognition when His Majesty the King presided over the cornerstone-laying ceremony. Surrounding the ubosot are white mosaic walls, and at the corners of the main entrance, mandap, and viharn stand statues of Luang Pho Pan and Luang Pho Yai, each three times life size.

 

Inside the temple, there is also a replica of Phra Chinnarat and the incorruptible body of Luang Pho Ruesi Ling Dam. Many of the buildings are externally clad in translucent white mosaic, giving them a distinctive, glass-like appearance. Several pavilions serve as meditation halls and provide accommodations for visitors and practitioners. Each building operates on different opening hours, generally closed during midday. The halls begin opening individually from 10:30 a.m., and all are available for viewing together from 2:00 p.m. onwards.

 

At the temple’s pier, a 40-seat boat is available for tours along the route from Wat Tha Sung to the floating village. Visitors can stop to purchase local handicrafts and organic vegetables cultivated by villagers. The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes at a cost of 40 THB per person. Reservations can be made by contacting Khun Nid at 08 9958 1479 or 08 7527 2243.

 

Wat Tha Sung is situated in Moo 2, Tambon Nam Suem, and can be reached by several means. Visitors may travel along Highway 3265 toward the Manorom ferry, approximately 12 kilometers, or take the blue minibus service from Uthai Thani to Tha Sung for convenience. The temple stands as an important religious and cultural landmark in Uthai Thani, offering insights into art, architecture, and Buddhist practice, seamlessly combining the historical charm of Ayutthaya-era architecture with modern, intricate design.