Wat Pai Thong

Open Days: Open Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wat Phai Thong, Ang Thong is located in Sai Thong Subdistrict, Pa Mok District, Ang Thong Province. It is an old temple that clearly reflects the history, art, and collective memory of the Ban Phai Thong community. This temple is not merely a place for religious ceremonies, but also a long-standing center of faith and unity for the people of Sai Thong Subdistrict.

 

Wat Phai Thong is an Ayutthaya-period temple featuring a beautiful historic ordination hall. It is especially known for the legend of the “Golden Paddle,” which is said to be the origin of the temple’s name. The temple also plays an important role as a community hub and serves as the site of a local child development center.

 

According to stories passed down by elders in the community, during the Ayutthaya period a high-ranking noble traveled by boat to inspect and care for local residents. When the boat arrived in front of the temple, a paddle slipped from someone’s hand and fell into the river. The legend says that it was a “golden paddle.” Although it may have been a paddle partially plated with gold, the incident became the origin of the name “Wat Phai Thong.” The nearby community was subsequently named Ban Phai Thong in accordance with this legend.

 

Even though the story of the golden paddle is a local legend, it holds significant cultural value because it strengthens the bond between the community and the temple. The temple’s name is therefore not just a label for a place, but a symbol of shared memory among the people.

 

Architecturally, the ordination hall (ubosot) of Wat Phai Thong was constructed in the early Ayutthaya period and is more than 100 years old. Its distinctive character lies in its simple yet dignified structure. The walls are decorated with stucco motifs that reflect the craftsmanship of artisans from that era. The designs are detailed and refined, and they remain visible despite the passage of time.

 

Inside the ordination hall, parts of the original mural paintings can still be seen. Although the colors have faded over time, they continue to reflect the prosperity of Thai art during the Ayutthaya period. These artistic elements deserve preservation so that future generations can appreciate their historical value.

 

Wat Phai Thong is also home to a child development center that serves children from nearby villages. This role reflects the traditional image of Thai temples as places that support education and community development. In the past, temples often functioned as both schools and centers of village activities, and this legacy continues here.

 

During important Buddhist holy days such as Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, and the beginning of Buddhist Lent, local residents gather at the temple to make merit, participate in candlelight processions, and organize community activities. The temple remains a deeply rooted center of connection and devotion for the Ban Phai Thong community.

 

Getting There From Ang Thong town, take the Ang Thong–Pa Mok route toward Sai Thong Subdistrict. Within the subdistrict, there are clear signs directing visitors to the temple. The temple is easily accessible by private car and provides parking space within the grounds.

 

 

A: The name comes from the legend of a golden paddle that fell into the river in front of the temple during the Ayutthaya period.

 

A: It was built during the Ayutthaya period and is more than 100 years old.

 

A: Visitors can see intricate stucco decorations and remaining historic mural paintings.

 

A: It serves as a religious center and houses a child development center for the local community.

 

A: Yes, it is easily accessible by private car, with clear directional signs and parking available within the temple grounds.