Wat Sawang Fa Phruetharam

Wat Sawang Fa Phuttharam is an ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and cultural value, located in Na Kluea Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri Province. The temple belongs to the Mahanikaya sect and covers an area of 30 rai, 3 ngan, and 66 square wah. The land is divided into several sections: approximately 16 rai are designated for religious purposes and temple structures, around 8 rai are used as the location of Pattaya City School 3, about 2 rai are used for Sawang Fa Road which connects the local transportation routes, and another 4 rai are set aside as temple property for lease, with the income supporting temple restoration and community activities.

 

Wat Sawang Fa Phuttharam was founded in 1769 during the late Ayutthaya period. Originally, it was called Wat Na Kluea, named after the surrounding fishing and salt-making village, which was once a thriving coastal community. The temple has long been a spiritual center and a vital part of the local community. On November 26, 1991, the temple was granted Wisungkhamsima, giving it an official boundary for ordination and allowing it to fully conduct Buddhist ceremonies such as ordinations and other important rituals.

 

The temple’s architecture reflects the artistic style of the late Ayutthaya period. Evidence of this heritage can be seen in the original wooden ordination hall built in the traditional Thai style, which showcases the craftsmanship of local artisans from that era. There is also a sacred pond, known as “Sra Bot” or “Sim Nam,” which was historically used for significant religious ceremonies. According to local legend, King Taksin the Great once stayed in this area during his campaign to liberate Siam from Burmese occupation after the second fall of Ayutthaya, adding to the temple’s historical importance.

 

Among the sacred relics preserved at the temple is an ancient principal Buddha image, a plaster statue fixed directly to the temple floor, revered by the community. There are also fragments of another Buddha image that was damaged, which are carefully kept as historical evidence and objects of worship. These relics are not only spiritually significant but also serve as educational resources for those interested in Thai history and ancient art forms.

 

Today, Wat Sawang Fa Phuttharam continues to serve as the spiritual heart of the Na Kluea community and surrounding areas. Regular Buddhist ceremonies and community events are held throughout the year, including almsgiving on special religious days, New Year chanting rituals, Songkran Festival celebrations, as well as ceremonies during the Buddhist Lent and Kathina period. These events draw both locals and tourists, especially during Pattaya’s peak travel seasons. The temple has also become a cultural tourism destination for visitors eager to learn about local traditions and history.

 

The area surrounding the temple plays a vital role in education and transportation. Pattaya City School 3, located within the temple grounds, provides education for local youth. Sawang Fa Road, which runs through the area, facilitates easy travel between neighboring communities, further strengthening the temple’s role in supporting both the spiritual and economic life of the region.

 

With its long history and multifaceted importance, Wat Sawang Fa Phuttharam is more than just a temple. It represents the deep faith of the local people, the rich cultural heritage of Na Kluea, and the enduring bond between the temple and its surrounding community. It is a cultural tourism site ideal for visitors to explore, pay respects to sacred relics, and gain a deeper understanding of Pattaya’s and Chon Buri’s historical roots. For those visiting Pattaya or Bang Lamung, a stop at Wat Sawang Fa Phuttharam offers a unique cultural experience while supporting the preservation of this temple and its community for future generations.