Wat Chang

Rating: 4.5/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: Not specified

 

Wat Chang is a historic temple in Bang Prok Subdistrict, Mueang Pathum Thani District, Pathum Thani Province. For travelers looking for an old riverside temple near Bangkok, this temple stands out for its Mon community heritage, old architecture, sacred Buddha images, and calm local atmosphere.

 

Wat Chang was founded in 1817 during the reign of King Rama II by Mon migrants from Mottama who settled in the Ban Chang community. After establishing their settlement, they built the temple as a religious center for merit-making and for preserving their traditions. The name “Wat Chang” comes from the local community name, making the temple closely tied to the cultural identity of the area from the very beginning.

 

The temple later developed into a well-established religious site. The old ordination hall received royal boundary consecration in 1891. A newer ordination hall was later built and received royal consecration again in 1985, with the boundary stones ceremonially installed in the same year. This reflects the temple’s continued role as a living and active place of worship rather than only a historical monument.

 

One of the most important features of Wat Chang is its old viharn, a small brick-and-mortar structure with refined decorative details. Its artistic style reflects the late Ayutthaya to early Rattanakosin period, while the pediment also shows Chinese artistic influence. This combination makes the building especially valuable for visitors interested in temple architecture and Thai religious art.

 

Inside the old viharn is Luang Pho Chang, a revered Buddha image in the Mara-subduing posture. It remains a major focus of devotion for local worshippers and visitors who come to pay respect and pray for blessings. The atmosphere inside the viharn is quiet and deeply connected to the temple’s long spiritual history.

 

Another remarkable structure is the wooden riverside pavilion. Its open design, gabled-and-hip roof combination, decorative wooden eaves, and carefully crafted pillars give it a distinctive traditional character. This part of the temple offers a particularly strong sense of old Pathum Thani riverside life and is one of the most visually memorable areas within the compound.

 

Wat Chang is also known for Luang Pho Paed Muen, or Luang Pho Satang Daeng, a meditating Buddha image made from 84,000 copper coins. The number represents the 84,000 teachings of the Tripitaka. This rare and highly unusual Buddha image adds another layer of interest for visitors, especially those who enjoy discovering temples with distinctive sacred objects.

 

The line of abbots at Wat Chang has continued for generations. The current abbot is Phra Palad Akkharadet Yanatecho, who has served since 2021. His presence confirms that the temple remains an active and functioning religious center for the local community today.

 

Wat Chang is suitable both for merit-making and for cultural day trips in Pathum Thani. Because it lies in the Bang Prok area near the Chao Phraya River, visitors can easily combine a visit here with nearby temples, riverside public spaces, the city shrine, and the old municipal market area. This makes the temple a practical stop for travelers interested in history, religion, and local culture in one short trip.

 

Getting There is quite straightforward from Bangkok. Travelers can drive into Mueang Pathum Thani and continue toward Bang Prok. The temple is located at 107 Moo 6, Bang Prok, Mueang Pathum Thani, Pathum Thani 12000. Searching for “Wat Chang Pathum Thani” on online maps is the easiest way to navigate there. Private car travel is the most convenient option, especially for visitors planning to continue to nearby attractions on the same route.

 

 

A: Wat Chang is located in Bang Prok Subdistrict, Mueang Pathum Thani District, Pathum Thani Province.

 

A: It was founded in 1817 during the reign of King Rama II.

 

A: The main highlights are the old viharn, Luang Pho Chang, the wooden riverside pavilion, and Luang Pho Paed Muen made from 84,000 copper coins.

 

A: The current abbot is Phra Palad Akkharadet Yanatecho.

 

A: No. There is no admission fee.

 

A: Yes. It is easy to reach by private car and works well as part of a day trip in Pathum Thani.

 

A: You can continue to Wat Hong Pathumawas, Suan Theppathum, the Pathum Thani City Pillar Shrine, and the municipal market area.