Wat Wang Pradu

Rating: 2.5/5 (8 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wat Wang Pradu is located in Moo 7, Mae Nam Khu Subdistrict, Pluak Daeng District, Rayong Province. It is a public temple under the Mahanikaya sect and serves as a spiritual center for the local community. The temple is well known for “Luang Pho Dam,” a sacred Buddha image believed by locals to be around 200 years old. Devotees come to pay respect, apply gold leaf, and make merit for blessings and protection from misfortune.

 

Wat Wang Pradu was officially established on July 12, 1985, and granted its consecrated boundary (Visungkhamsima) on April 18, 2012. Although relatively new compared to ancient temples, it holds deep significance for residents of Mae Nam Khu and nearby areas, functioning as both a place of worship and a cultural hub for community gatherings and Buddhist ceremonies.

 

Luang Pho Dam is the heart of faith at Wat Wang Pradu. According to local legend, the Buddha image is about two centuries old, though no archaeological record officially confirms its age. Locals believe it possesses divine powers—bringing luck, safety, and compassion. Every Chinese New Year, people gather at the temple to participate in the gilding ceremony and the traditional boundary-stone embedding festival, expressing gratitude and reverence for Luang Pho Dam.

 

The temple grounds are peaceful and shaded by large trees. The ordination hall and pavilions stand quietly amidst greenery. Visitors often describe the atmosphere as calming, with a strong spiritual presence. Many believe that touching or gilding Luang Pho Dam helps dispel misfortune and bring prosperity to one’s life and family.

 

Getting There — Visitors can drive from Rayong city via Highway No. 36 toward Pluak Daeng District, then turn onto Rural Road No. 7084 through Mae Nam Khu Subdistrict into Moo 7, where the temple is located. Clear directional signs guide travelers along the way. For convenience, search “Wat Wang Pradu Pluak Daeng Rayong” on Google Maps or Waze. Those without private vehicles may hire a local taxi or songthaew from Pluak Daeng town center.

 

Phone numbers appearing in local ceremonies and community events include 081-457-5100, 090-386-7233, and 084-336-1336. It is recommended to call ahead before visiting, especially during annual festivals or religious ceremonies when some areas may be temporarily closed to the public.

 

Aside from Luang Pho Dam, the temple features Buddha images for each day of the week, meditation areas, and shaded resting spots. It functions not only as a sacred site but also as a peaceful retreat for reflection, embodying the essence of Thai Buddhist culture and community unity in Rayong.

 

 

A: There is no official archaeological record confirming the age. The 200-year claim is based on local legend and oral tradition rather than documented history.

 

A: Yes, Wat Wang Pradu is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00. However, during certain religious ceremonies, some areas may be restricted to visitors.

 

A: No entrance fee is required. Visitors can make donations voluntarily, especially during annual festivals or merit-making events.

 

A: Drive along Highway 36 and turn onto Rural Road 7084 through Mae Nam Khu to reach Moo 7. The route is clearly marked. Using Google Maps is recommended for navigation.

 

A: Taking photos in general areas is allowed, but please ask permission before photographing sacred zones or during ceremonies.