Wat Si Maha Pho

Situated in Prachin Buri Province, Thailand, Wat Si Maha Pho is a highly esteemed Buddhist temple possessing substantial historical and cultural significance. The temple is most famous for its old Bodhi tree, which is thought to be more than 2,000 years old. In addition to being a site of worship, Wat Si Maha Pho is a representation of the close ties in history and culture that exist between Thailand and the wider Buddhist community.

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History of Wat Si Maha Pho

The temple's origins date back to the Dvaravati period, reflecting the strong Indian cultural and religious influences of that era. Legend holds that the tree was planted from a cutting sent by King Asoka of India, who played a crucial role in spreading Buddhism across Asia. 

History of Wat Si Maha Pho

Over the centuries, Wat Si Maha Pho has been a major pilgrimage site, symbolizing enlightenment due to its connection to the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. 

The temple features traditional Thai architecture and serves as a center for monastic life, religious ceremonies, and meditation, embodying Thailand's rich Buddhist heritage and ongoing spiritual practices.

What Wat Si Maha Pho have?

Prachinburi Province, Thailand's Wat Si Maha Pho is a major religious and cultural landmark due to its many noteworthy characteristics.

Old Bodhi Tree

Old Bodhi Tree

One of the biggest and oldest Bodhi trees in Thailand is housed at the temple. It is thought to be over 2,000 years old. For Buddhists, this tree is a major place of pilgrimage as it represents enlightenment.

Thai Architecture in Tradition

Thai Architecture in Tradition

Traditional Thai architectural features seen in the temple complex include elaborately adorned ordination halls (ubosot), stupas (chedis), and a variety of Buddha images. These buildings frequently include elaborate paintings and sculptures that represent scenarios from Buddhist texts.

Historical Relics

Wat Si Maha Pho is home to a variety of relics, sculptures, and ancient inscriptions that provide insights into the religious and cultural history of the area.

Historical relics in Wat Si Maha Pho

Historical and Cultural Importance

• The old Bodhi tree and the temple's association with the Dvaravati era demonstrate how Buddhism historically traveled from India to Southeast Asia.
• The temple works to guarantee that future generations will be able to appreciate its historical and religious significance.
• In addition to being a site of worship, Wat Si Maha Pho represents centuries of cultural and religious history and the continuing influence of Buddhism in Thailand.

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Traveling cost of Wat Si Maha Pho

Wat Si Maha Pho in Prachinburi Province, Thailand, travel expenses are determined by a number of variables, such as your starting place, mode of transportation, and personal preferences.

Reaching Wat Si Maha Pho from Bangkok

• Bus fare: 100–150 THB per person, one trip, from Bangkok's Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Prachinburi.
• Wat Si Maha Pho may be reached locally for 50–100 THB per person one way from Prachinburi.
• By Train: Depending on the type of service, train fares from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Prachinburi range from 50 to 150 THB per person for one trip.
• Wat Si Maha Pho may be reached locally for 50–100 THB per person one way from Prachinburi.

Extra Expenses

• Accommodations: Prachinburi offers inexpensive motels for 500–1,500 THB per night if you're planning to stay the night.
• Meals: The price range for meals in the area is 30-100 THB per dish.
• Fees for Entrance: Wat Si Maha Pho does not typically charge an admission fee, however gifts are welcomed.

Best time to visit Wat Si Maha Pho

November through February are the ideal months to visit Wat Si Maha Pho in Prachinburi Province because of the mild, dry weather and temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. There isn't much rain during this time of year, which is perfect for seeing the temple and its historic Bodhi tree. 

Best time to visit Wat Si Maha Pho

These months also feature important cultural celebrations like Loy Krathong and Buddhist festivals, which improve the experience for visitors. Even though it's the busiest travel season, now is the ideal time to go because of the pleasant weather and exciting cultural events.

How to get to Wat Si Maha Pho

To reach Wat Si Maha Pho in Prachinburi Province from Bangkok, you can drive for about 2 hours via Route 305 or Route 33. Alternatively, take a 2-3 hour bus ride from Mo Chit Bus Terminal, followed by local transport like taxis or songthaews to the temple. 

Trains from Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok also offer access to Prachinburi, where you can then take local transportation to Wat Si Maha Pho. Utilizing navigation apps for guidance and booking public transport in advance can streamline the journey.

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