Seeking a spiritual journey that offers tranquility and cultural richness?
Table of Contents
Surat Thani is home to some of the region’s most mesmerizing and significant temples.
Exploring these sacred sites provides a unique insight into the spiritual life and history of the Thai people, making it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and digital nomads.
Key Highlights
- Surat Thani offers a one-of-a-kind spiritual tour with its top 6 temples, each rich in cultural and historical significance. Digital nomads can have a calm and enlightening experience at these temples.
- The temples in Surat Thani, particularly Wat Samakkhi Phadungpan, with its two-story chapel and on-site Institute of Psychic Research, provide a unique combination of beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.
- Meditation and spiritual activities are available to visitors at these temples, particularly Wat Samakkhi Phadungpan, renowned for its psychic studies and meditation sessions.
- The temples of Wat Samakkhi Phadungpan, a center for meditation and psychic study, Wat Pattanaram, a center of local faith and tradition, and Wat Sai, which are renowned for their historical significance and art collection, are notable for their distinctive offerings and stunning architecture.
- The temples of Surat Thani, like Wat Phra Yok, with its enigmatic image of the Buddha and the story of the novice monk, lend a mysterious and intriguing quality to the spiritual quest.
- In addition to being worship centers, Surat Thani’s temples serve as reminders of the area’s rich spiritual and cultural history and provide a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere for visitors and digital nomads.
Best Temples to Visit in Surat Thani
As you explore our article, you will discover the top temples that make Surat Thani a remarkable place for digital nomads who wish to connect with Thailand’s spiritual roots.
Each temple is steeped in history and has its own story. It is adorned with incredible art and architecture that reflect the area’s deep-seated beliefs and artistic heritage.
These nomad-friendly temples offer a profound peek into Thailand’s soul, whether you are a curious traveler ready to discover or a dedicated devotee searching for a place of devotion.
1. Wat Sai
Wat Sai was established in 1931. It is one of the most famous temples in Surat Thani.
During the Second World War, the Japanese military used the building as their headquarters.
The temple is named after the giant Banyan tree inside the premises. A prominent sandstone carving of Buddha is enshrined in the temple.
Besides the chapel, there is a two-story wooden Sala Hall building. It houses a collection of ancient art and architecture.
The temple is surrounded by many antique ruins, making it a perfect spot for recreation and Instagram-worthy photos.
The temple building houses abundant chinaware. A bell tower is also inside the temple premises.
But I personally love to come here on weekends since the Pracharat market is organized nearby.
There is also a parking space provided for visitors. But they charge a 10 Baht fee per vehicle.
I don’t mind paying, though, as long as my rented car is secured and the money goes to the maintenance of the temple grounds.
196 Namueang Rd., Talat, Mueang Surat Thani District, Surat Thani 84000, Thailand
+66 82 239 4695
2. Wat Pattanaram
Wat Pattaram is located on Pattanaram Road in Talat Lang, Surat Thani. It is also popularly known as the Wat Mai temple.
The temple is named after a monk, ‘Luang Phor Pat.’ He died in a meditative position, and his corpse still remains inside the temple, resembling a rock, still undecomposed.
Before Pat established this temple, the land was a graveyard and home to wild animals such as tigers, lemurs, snakes, monkeys, etc.
One of the temples’ buildings depicts the life of Buddha through different paintings along the upper walls. The paintings are believed to be 155 years old.
Due to its central location in the city, it is very popular among the locals. You will always find people flocking to the temple.
It is believed that all the wishes asked here are fulfilled. So, most people, including me, come here with high hopes and pray with a lot of dedication.
652 Namueang Rd., Tambon Talat, Mueang Surat Thani District, Surat Thani 84000, Thailand
+66 77 214 845
3. Wat Samakkhi Phadungpan
The Wat Samakkhi Phadungpan is the only temple in Surat Thani town with a beautiful two-story chapel.
On the ground floor of the building, there is an Institute of Psychic Research, one of the province’s most famous meditation and learning venues.
The second floor is where the temple is located. The temple is under the clergy of the Thammasatthanakham sect.
I don’t know, but there’s just something about Wat Samakkhi Phadungpan temple that gives me a sense of calmness and a soothing vibe. I often come here for meditation and reflection, just when I need some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
48GM+R93, Tambon Makham Tia, Mueang Surat Thani District, Surat Thani 84000, Thailand
4. Wat Sarawanaram
Wat Saranaram is located in the Mueang District of Surat Thani Province. It is also known as the Tha Phet temple.
The temple is on a hill next to the rural highway, not far from the city road. It offers a fantastic view from the top.
Wat Sarawanaram was established by Phra Dhamma Viroon Thera, or Luang Por Plubthitikro, one of the famous teachers of the south.
The building has a monastery hall, the bell tower, the monument, Luang Pho Phlap Sala Kam Phen Charan, and the Phra Kuti.
Inside the premises, giant trees provide ample shade for the devotees to sit and relax. The place is suitable for education, Dharma, meditation, and relaxation.
49C7+Q6F, Tambon Makham Tia, Mueang Surat Thani District, Surat Thani 84000, Thailand
5. Wat Phothawas
Wat Phothawas was established on January 10, 1787. It is one of the oldest temples in Surat Thani, built during King Rama’s reign.
The temple is built on 5 acres, measuring 73.5 square meters 2 ngan.
The ancient architecture of the temple has two beautiful pagodas behind the Buddhist sanctuary.
The temple’s main attraction is the principal Buddha image, which is 80 inches wide and 71 inches high. It was placed in the temple in 1919.
Aside from praying and meditation, there is also a designated place where you can feed the fishes and pigeons. A great side activity to experience when visiting Wat Phothawas.
Just a heads up, the road leading towards the main temple grounds is quite narrow. So, this is something to consider when you decide to bring a car.
3WCW+2HQ, Samo Phlue, Mueang Phetchaburi District, Phetchaburi 76150, Thailand
6. Wat Phra Yok
Wat Phra Yok is another ancient temple in Surat Thani province. The temple was established around 200 years ago in the early Rattanakosin period (reign of King Rama I).
The temple was formerly known as “Wat Sa Kaeo” because the temple area had a large pond, while the old chapel was built of bricks.
Today, the temple is named Wat Phra Yok because some people in early times saw the Buddha’s image sway.
Many Chinese-style dolls surround the chapel. In the past, it had an area of approximately 40 rai. At present, only 13 rai remain.
Rumor has it that once a novice was cleaning the temple, he disappeared under suspicious circumstances. The only thing left was his robe, and a red bloodstain stuck at the mouth of the Buddha image.
Even today, the mercury under the chin of the Buddha image reacts chemically with the texture of the metal. This reaction gives the effect of a red liquid coming out of the chin, the same as blood.
The story is quite fascinating and the local people believed that this was because they hadn’t paid enough merit.
512 Tonpo Rd., Talat, Mueang Surat Thani District, Surat Thani 84000, Thailand
Final Thoughts: Visiting Temples in Surat Thani
Discovering Surat Thani may be immensely enlightening, particularly for digital nomads who visit its magnificent temples.
Each temple provides a distinct window into the spiritual and cultural fabric of Thailand, from the serene environs of Wat Sai to the historic depths of Wat Phra Yok.
These sanctuaries serve as spaces for quiet reflection, a strong bond with tradition, and places of prayer.
What are the best temples to visit in Surat Thani?
As you plan your digital nomad journey, consider these temples as must-visit destinations.
Every location has a tale to be found, whether you’re drawn to the calm ambiance of Wat Samakkhi Phadungpan or the historic allure of Wat Phothawas.
Take advantage of the chance to fully immerse yourself in the province’s customs and unwind from the daily grind.
Travelers worldwide are welcome to tour the sacred grounds of these temples, which serve as stunning monuments to Surat Thani’s spiritual core and historical background.
FAQ
Some of the most important temples in Surat Thani include Wat Sai, Wat Pattanaram, and Wat Samakkhi Phadungpan. Each provides distinctive cultural and architectural experiences.
Wat Phra Yok and Wat Phothawas indeed are two of the most historically significant temples, having been around for several centuries.
Indeed, Wat Samakkhi Phadungpan provides a calm setting for introspection, holds meditation sessions, and houses the Institute of Psychic Research.
In Surat Thani, most temples are open from dawn until late afternoon. However, exact times can change, so it’s best to confirm them beforehand.
The majority of Surat Thani’s temples don’t charge admission. Donations are still accepted and used for temple operations and upkeep.
