Wat Yansangwararam Woramahawihan, or Wat Yan for short, is a big Buddhist temple complex in Huai Yai, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, Thailand. The temple is surrounded by peaceful gardens and lakes and is supported by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX). A lot of the buildings in the complex were built to honour the Thai Royal Family, so it is both a spiritual and a cultural site. There are international pavilions around a beautiful lake on the temple grounds, as well as statues of respected monks and monuments to members of the royal family. One of the most impressive parts of the complex is its replica of the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India, where the Buddha became enlightened.
History of Wat Yansangwararam Woramahawihan
Somdet Phra Nyanasamvara, the 19th Supreme Patriarch of the Thai Sangha, helped start Wat Yan in 1976. It was built as a place to practise Dharma, especially Samatha and Vipassana meditation. It became an important centre for the Dhammayuttika Nikaya order in Thailand. Dr. Kajorn and Khunying Nithiwadee Ontrakarn gave the monastery its first land, which was about 16 hectares. Since then, more land has been bought and donated, bringing the total area to over 58 hectares.
Also, about 400 hectares nearby are being used for royal development projects. The temple has four main areas: Buddhavas, which is the spiritual centre of the monastery; Sanghavas, which is where the monks live; Karavas, which is where lay practitioners live; and areas for learning about farming, career development, and protecting wildlife. Wat Yan also honours past Thai kings and queens, like King Naresuan and King Taksin, as well as members of the modern royal family, like King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Queen Sirikit, and Princess Sirindhorn.
Location, Directions & Timings
Wat Yan is in the Huai Yai Sub-district of Bang Lamung District in Chonburi Province. It is about 15 kilometres south of Pattaya. The temple is in a quiet, natural area with landscaped gardens, lakes, and parkland all around it. This makes it a great place to get away from the noise of the city.
You can get to the temple from Pattaya in about 30 minutes by car, taxi, or motorbike. It takes about two hours to drive from Bangkok. Wat Yan is usually open every day from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. There is no cost to get in, but donations are welcome to help keep the temple and its community projects going.
Things to See and Do in Wat Yansangwararam Woramahawihan
- Visit the replica of the Mahabodhi Temple, which represents the sacred history of Buddhism in India.
- There are international pavilions around the central lake that are based on designs from China, Switzerland, and Japan.
- You can see statues of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, his mother Srinagarindra, and other members of the Thai Royal Family.
- You can either join or watch Vipassana meditation sessions at the monastery.
- Walk through the nearby lakes and gardens, which are great places to relax and think.
Tips Before You Visit The Park
- Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Take off your shoes before going into holy temple areas.
- Come in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler and there is more natural light.
- As this is an active monastery, please be quiet and polite.
- You can take pictures, but don’t be a bother.
FAQs about Wat Yansangwararam Woramahawihan
No, there is no cost to get in, but donations are welcome to help with temple upkeep and activities.
The replica of the Mahabodhi Temple in India is one of the most impressive buildings, along with the international pavilions and statues of famous monks.
Yes, Wat Yan is a place where both Samatha and Vipassana meditation are taught. Laypeople can join meditation sessions if they are available.
