Wat Thung Faek

Rating: 3.8/5 (6 votes)

Operating day: Daily

Operating time: 08.00 - 17.00

 

Wat Thung Faek Wang Luek, Sam Chuk, Suphan Buri. It is said that in 1931, a group of villagers migrated to establish a community in this area, which was fertile and well-suited for agriculture. The abundance of bamboo and vetiver grass made it ideal for constructing homes, likely inspiring the current name of the village.

 

Later, in 1941, the residents of Thung Fak collectively built a small temple, driven by their deep faith in Buddhism. Initially, the temple had one or two monks residing temporarily during the Buddhist Lent, after which it would be abandoned. This original temple site is now home to Thung Fak Pittayakom School.

 

In 1956, with the construction of an irrigation canal, the villagers relocated the temple to the canal's edge, where it became the site of the present-day Wat Thung Fak.

 

One of the temple's notable features is Luang Pho Thong Dam or Luang Pu Thong Kam, a revered Buddha image. While there is no clear record of who created it or when, the Buddha image’s artistic style—with intricate floral designs on its attire and a serene expression in the "Bhumisparsha Mudra" (subduing Mara) posture—suggests it was crafted in the late Ayutthaya to early Rattanakosin period, approximately 200 years ago.

 

According to local accounts, before coming to Thung Fak, Luang Pu Thong Kam was enshrined at Pak Khlong Bang Khwaek (now the site of Sam Chuk Sugar Mill). It was under the care of Khun Ta Choi (the ancestor of Mr. Chang Chanwong). When his family relocated to Thung Fak, they brought the image with them.

 

Another fascinating feature of the temple is its sacred Bodhi tree, known for its unusual foliage. The leaves emerge in hues of pink and creamy white, making the tree uniquely beautiful. Many believe it to be a "Bodhi of Silver and Gold," bringing blessings and prosperity to those who come to worship. This phenomenon has attracted countless visitors seeking its auspicious energy.

 

Approximately 3–4 kilometers beyond Wat Thung Fak lies a Royal Initiative Demonstration Farm Project, spanning thousands of rai at the border of Suphan Buri and Ang Thong provinces. While the current access roads (marked in red on the map) may still be under development, once completed, the area promises to be a highly attractive destination for visitors.