Rating: 2.7/5 (9 votes)

Operating day: daily

Operating time: 08.00 - 17.00

 

Wat Bot Charoen Tham Thong Lang, Ban Na, Nakhon Nayok. Amidst the tranquil charm of Nakhon Nayok province lies a hidden historical gem — Wat Bot Charoen Tham, a centuries-old temple that not only serves as a place for spiritual practice but also houses an ancient stupa believed to date back to the Ayutthaya period. This stupa has silently stood the test of time, witnessing the changes and continuities of Thai society.

 

Located in Mueang District, Nakhon Nayok Province, Wat Bot Charoen Tham is thought to have been established during the Ayutthaya Kingdom — a period when Buddhism flourished throughout Siam. The temple may once have been a spiritual and communal center in the area and continues to serve religious functions to this day.

 

The stupa within Wat Bot Charoen Tham is a striking example of Ayutthaya-era architecture. Its bell-shaped body rests on a twelve-indented square base — a distinctive feature of the period. Though weathered by time, delicate stucco details still remain visible, suggesting its former grandeur. The stupa may have once enshrined relics of the Buddha or the remains of highly respected monks, making it a sacred focal point for local Buddhist devotion.

 

To the local community, Wat Bot Charoen Tham is more than just a temple — it is a spiritual anchor connecting younger generations with the deep roots of their faith. Traditional ceremonies such as candlelit processions on Buddhist holy days, ritual bathing of Buddha images during Songkran, and annual Kathin robe offerings are regularly held here, with the ancient stupa standing as a silent witness to this enduring devotion.

 

Although the stupa has faced natural degradation over the years, a joint effort by the temple, the local community, and government bodies has helped to maintain and restore it, ensuring its preservation for future generations. With proper archaeological surveys and academic studies, the stupa could potentially be registered as a national historical site in the near future.

 

For cultural travelers, history enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers alike, Wat Bot Charoen Tham offers a deeply enriching experience. Here, visitors not only encounter a centuries-old stupa but also gain insight into the rhythms of Thai life intertwined with Buddhism a timeless journey into the heart of heritage and faith.