Wat Sampathuan Nok

Rating: 2.8/5 (9 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wat Sampathuan Nok, located on Suphakit Road in Chachoengsao Province, is an old temple dating back to the late Thonburi period. It is closely connected to the legend of “Sam Phra Thuan” (the Three Upstream Buddhas) related to Luang Pho Phutthasothon, and is distinguished by its intricate stucco reliefs depicting the Vessantara Jataka along the eaves of the ordination hall. These artworks reflect both Buddhist moral teachings and the traditional way of life of the people of Paet Riu in the past. The temple is ideal for a historical and spiritual visit, requiring about 1–1.5 hours to explore, and can easily be combined with other attractions in the city.

 

Wat Sampathuan Nok – A Historical Attraction in Chachoengsao is situated along the Bang Pakong River on Suphakit Road. Originally known as “Wat Suan Prik (Nok),” it was established in the late Thonburi era by Phra Bhikkhu In together with local villagers. The temple later changed its name due to a legend associated with Luang Pho Phutthasothon, whose Buddha image was believed to have floated upstream past the front of the temple. The area was thus called “Sam Phra Thuan” (Three Buddhas Going Upstream), which gradually evolved in pronunciation into “Sampathuan.”

 

The charm of this temple does not lie in grandeur, but in the “layers of narrative” embedded within a single site. It combines Thonburi-era history, devotion to Luang Pho Phutthasothon, and stucco artistry that conveys Buddhist teachings through scenes from the Vessantara Jataka. Upon entering the temple grounds, visitors immediately sense a deeper calm compared to more commercialized temples, as the atmosphere remains that of a genuine riverside community temple.

 

The most significant feature, highly regarded by art historians, is the stucco relief along the eaves of the ordination hall, depicting key episodes of the Vessantara Jataka in sequence. This series was created during the tenure of Phra Phutthirangsi Muniwong (Hor Phromchoto) as abbot. It stands as important artistic evidence reflecting the local approach to communicating Buddhist teachings through visual storytelling.

 

The Vessantara Jataka, the final tale of the Ten Great Birth Stories (Tosachati), narrates the Bodhisattva’s ultimate perfection of generosity. The stucco panels at Wat Sampathuan Nok are not merely decorative illustrations; they are arranged systematically from the Dana Kanda and Thotsaphon episodes through to the Mahaphon forest scenes and the chapters involving Prince Jali and Princess Kanhā. Some scenes also portray the local lifestyle of Paet Riu residents, including clothing styles, agricultural activities, and riverside living, seamlessly integrating the Jataka narrative with the local cultural context.

 

Artistic analysis reveals that the relief style reflects a semi-folk aesthetic blended with early Rattanakosin influences. The lines are less focused on royal court realism and instead emphasize narrative clarity and emotional expression of the characters. This approach allows viewers to easily grasp the story while preserving the distinctive charm of local craftsmanship.

 

On the opposite side of the ordination hall, scenes portray the traditional way of life of Chachoengsao residents, including villagers rowing boats along the Bang Pakong River, rice farming, and everyday agricultural activities. These depictions hold anthropological value, offering insight into the social structure and community life of the region during the period of the temple’s restoration.

 

At the front of the temple stands an elegant shrine hall, and from the riverside pier visitors can see the Bang Pakong Barrage. This landscape feature enhances the temple’s unique identity. Standing by the river in the early morning or late afternoon provides a serene atmosphere, adding a contemplative dimension to the temple visit.

 

Getting There Visitors can search for “Wat Sampathuan Nok” on Suphakit Road, Mueang District, Chachoengsao. From Bangkok, the journey takes approximately 1–1.5 hours by car. Driving is the most convenient option and allows easy continuation to Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan, Talat Ban Mai 100 Years Market, or Wat Chin Prachasamoson within the same day.

 

 

A: It was established in the late Thonburi period by Phra Bhikkhu In and local villagers.

 

A: The stucco reliefs of the Vessantara Jataka along the ordination hall eaves, which are both artistically and historically valuable.

 

A: It refers to the legend of Luang Pho Phutthasothon floating upstream past the temple, which inspired the temple’s name.

 

A: Approximately 1–1.5 hours for sightseeing and worship.

 

A: Yes, but visitors should respect temple rules and avoid disturbing others.

 

A: Yes, the riverside area in front of the temple offers a clear view of the Bang Pakong Barrage.