Practical information
- Location
- Chachoengsao, Chachoengsao · 13.67373, 101.06731
- Dress code
- Dress politely: long sleeves, trousers or a knee-length skirt; no sleeveless, crop, tight or revealing tops. Take off your shoes before entering the chapel or other buildings. (source: thailand.go.th)
- Period
- Founded in the late Ayutthaya period
Opening hours and entrance fee: no reliable source found, so not listed. Ask on site or check the official website.
About Wat Sothonwararam
Wat Sothonwararam lies on the Bang Pakong River in the town of Chachoengsao, about an hour east of Bangkok. It shelters Luang Pho Phuttha Sothon, a seated Buddha image about 1.48 metres high and one of the most venerated in Thailand, believed to grant wishes. The current ordination hall is a vast white and gold building with soaring roofs, finished in the 21st century and visible from far along the river. Thai visitors come in large numbers, especially at weekends. A riverside market and boat trips on the Bang Pakong complete a pleasant day out.
Highlights
- Luang Pho Sothon A revered wish-granting Buddha.
- White ubosot A huge white and gold hall.
- Bang Pakong River Riverside market and boat trips.
Tips for Wat Sothonwararam
- Cover your shoulders and knees and take off your shoes before you enter a temple building.
- Combine your visit with Wat Saman Rattanaram, about 8 km away as the crow flies.
More photos of Wat Sothonwararam

Temple at night with light trails, Wat Sothonwararam Photo: Sarayutzzzz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons 
Ornate white and gold hall, Wat Sothonwararam Photo: Setthapongp · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Wat Sothonwararam on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
Frequently asked questions about Wat Sothonwararam
Where is Wat Sothonwararam?
Wat Sothonwararam is in Chachoengsao, Chachoengsao province, in eastern Thailand.
What is Wat Sothonwararam known for?
Wat Sothonwararam lies on the Bang Pakong River in the town of Chachoengsao, about an hour east of Bangkok. Highlights include Luang Pho Sothon, White ubosot and Bang Pakong River.
How old is Wat Sothonwararam?
Founded in the late Ayutthaya period.

