Wat Si Sawong is a local Buddhist temple situated in Ban Tha Kwai, Village No. 3, Chaiyawatthana Subdistrict, Pua District, Nan Province. It was founded through the faith and collective effort of the local villagers, beginning in 1947. A key figure in the temple’s establishment was Pho Liang Theppawong Khueanthanak, who initiated the idea of building a temple to serve as a spiritual center for the community.

 

The construction of the temple was made possible with the support of devout villagers such as Mrs. Kiang Suthampaeng, who donated the land for the temple site, and Mr. Fan Suthampong, who contributed timber for the construction of various religious structures. Their generosity and selflessness are a reflection of the community’s strong devotion to Buddhism.

 

Wat Si Sawong was granted Wisungkhamsima—official ecclesiastical boundaries on February 16th (the year is not recorded), marking its recognition under Buddhist monastic law and Thai legislation. This designation allows the temple to fully conduct religious rites and ceremonies.

 

Over the years, Wat Si Sawong has served not only as a spiritual center but also as a gathering place for community activities throughout all stages of life from merit-making on important Buddhist holidays and ordination ceremonies to Dhamma training for children and youth, as well as local traditional festivities. The temple stands as a cornerstone that sustains the community’s way of life and cultural heritage.

 

Although not widely known beyond the local area, its simplicity and the deep-rooted bond between the temple and the villagers have ensured that Wat Si Sawong remains an essential part of life in Ban Tha Kwai—a symbol of enduring faith and community spirit that has stood the test of time.