Wat Yansangwararam

Wat Yansangwararam, also known as Wat Yan, was the second part of my Day trip on Sunday and it surely didn’t disappoint. The Wat is about 17 kilometers from Pattaya center and is very close to both Khao Chee Chan ( Buddha Mountain ) and Nong Nooch Gardens. Wat Yan is often overlooked for other destinations in the area but believe me when I tell you that this is one day trip that should not be missed, especially if you like taking photos as much as I do.

Wat Yan is Actually a very large temple compound comprised of many buildings that literally spring up out of the jungle. The first building you will come to as you wind around the road to the Wat is Viharna Sein (  Anek Kusala Sala ) which is a Chinese style temple built to honor Thailand’s Chinese population. Officially opened in 1993 by King Bhumibol, the temple houses a huge selection of Chinese antiques, artifacts and stunning Chinese art. Complete with dragons, terracotta statues and many beautiful depictions of Buddha’s life.

Just across a large reservoir from Viharna Sein sits Wat Yan. Covering 366 rai (146 acres) of land, this temple complex features a wide array of architectural styles and structures, surrounded by  gardens and beautiful flower arrangements. Among the structures are a Khmer mandapa, housing a replica of a Buddha footprint; a white, 40-meter tall chedi containing relics of the Buddha and his disciples; a Swiss Chalet; and shrines in Indian and Japanese styles. Monuments include statues of King Rama VII and his wife, the beloved Princess Mother; and wax statues of 20 revered monks. The site also contains wildlife preserves and breeding facilities, a school, and a hospital.

Wat Yansangwararam is believed to be the heaven for those who love to meditate and practice it sincerely. Meditation courses are on offer for anyone who wishes to be enlightened daily from 6am to 6pm.

In 1976, Wat Yan was dedicated to Somdej Phra Yanasangworn, then the Supreme Patriarch, or head of Thailand’s monastic order. The temple was subsequently put under the patronage of King Bhumibol, who established a development program for it in 1982. Over 27 billion baht ( $600 million ) is said to have been spent on its construction.

This really makes an excellent day trip when paired up with Khao Chee Chan ( Buddha Mountain ) which is just 1 kilometer up the road. Entrance to the Chinese temple is 50 baht per person ( Falang and Thai alike ) And a guide book ( in Thai ) will set you back another 100 baht. Wat Yansangwararam really is a treasure hidden away in the jungle of Satahip and one that most people tend to miss out on. Plan a day to take in the sights and I guarantee you wont be disappointed.

Over 300 pictures can be found in the Wat Yansangwararam Gallery and many more pictures of the beauty that is Thailand can be found in the Thailand Photo Gallery.