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Wat Pho Chai Nong Khai

4.7
·8k reviews·Nai Mueang, Thailand

A sacred Buddhist temple in Nong Khai, renowned for its magnificent golden Buddha and vibrant, story-filled murals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Вид

Wat Pho Chai Nong Khai

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sacred Buddhist temple in Nong Khai, renowned for its magnificent golden Buddha and vibrant, story-filled murals.

4.7
(8k reviews)

"This temple is a must-see at least once in your life."

Vertical photo
TIP

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:

Explore the Grounds

Don't miss hidden shrines tucked away behind buildings. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Luang Phor Phra Sai

Luang Phor Phra Sai

Main temple hall

Gaze upon the revered golden Buddha statue, a sacred icon of Nong Khai, said to bring blessings.

Painted Murals

Painted Murals

Ordination Hall (Ubosot)

Admire the intricate murals depicting Buddha's life and local scenes, a visual feast for art lovers.

Temple Grounds

Temple Grounds

Throughout the complex

Explore the well-maintained grounds, discover hidden shrines, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Beat the crowds by arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Many visitors come during peak hours, especially for special events like Songkran. Check local schedules for any festivals.

Respectful Attire

As a sacred Buddhist temple, dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees. This is a common courtesy observed by locals and recommended by visitors.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
During Songkran
Why
Unique cultural experience
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

MAHA SONGKRAN NONGKHAI Wat Pho Chai, Nong Khai, Thailand ☺️😆 (Daydreaming))) - a pound #หลวงพ่อพระใส #พระใส #ศิลปะล้านช้าง #วัดโพธิ์ชัย #หนองคาย #สงกรานต์ #songkarn #Watphochainongkhai #watphochai #nongkhai
ppoundsp
20 likes • 929 views

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:

Explore the Grounds

Don't miss hidden shrines tucked away behind buildings. :camerawithflash:

Today we took a tuk tuk to see Wat Pho Chai which is Nong Khai’s largest and most significant temple. The bronze Buddha image with a solid gold head known as Luang Phor Phra Sai, is one of three that were made at the request of a Lao King’s daughter many centuries ago. One now resides in Bangkok, the second was lost on the Mekong River during a storm and the third resides in Wat Pho Chai. This str...
balenciavan
23 likes • 111 views
✨ Wat Pho Chai ✨ is located on Pho Chai Road, Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai Province. 💠 Luangpho Phra Sai, a sacred Buddha image of the town which is respected by the people of Nong Khai, is housed here. This Buddha image sitting cross-legged, which was cast from bright yellow gold in the posture of subduing Mara, has graceful features. 💠 Every year on the full moon day in the seventh ...
1672travelbuddy
1.5K likes • 27.3K views

Visit During Festivals

Experience vibrant cultural events like Songkran for a unique perspective. :tada:

Photography Opportunities

Capture beautiful murals and the golden Buddha. Nicely decorated walls near the entrance. :iphone:

Wat Pho Chai Nong Khai Thailand วัดโพธิ์ชัย พระใส
phoumykeopraseuth
0 likes • 9 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site. :pray:

Explore the Grounds

Don't miss hidden shrines tucked away behind buildings. :camerawithflash:

Visit During Festivals

Experience vibrant cultural events like Songkran for a unique perspective. :tada:

Photography Opportunities

Capture beautiful murals and the golden Buddha. Nicely decorated walls near the entrance. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Wat Pho Chai is widely praised as a must-visit temple in Nong Khai, celebrated for its impressive golden Buddha statue and beautifully detailed murals depicting Buddhist life. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds and the serene atmosphere, though some note ongoing landscaping work. It's considered a significant cultural and spiritual landmark.

"Wat Pho Chai, the most famous temple in town, is spacious and well-maintained. Inside, you’ll find a grand Buddha statue in the Lan Xang style, a true cultural treasure. If you visit Nongkhai, this temple is a must-see at least once in your life."

Kitsada Saleumxay

"Nice little temple in the centre of nong khai
Worth a visit if your in the area"

Dan

"Finally, it's finished. The magic flower I've been waiting for... The room is filled with a sweet and juicy scent, enticing me to try it.
I believe fresh trichomes are 100% better than farm-made ones, judging by the flower clusters, which have been trained by growers who know how much water plants consume per minute. Everyone needs to try them to know that what I've said is absolutely true."

ปลาวาฬ สีชมพู

What People Like

Impressive golden Buddha
Detailed wall murals
Well-maintained grounds

What People Dislike

Ongoing landscaping work

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wat Pho Chai is located on Pho Chai Road in Mueang Nong Khai District. It's easily accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi from anywhere in Nong Khai. Many visitors arrive by minibus and coaches, as indicated by the large parking area. InstagramReddit

Yes, Wat Pho Chai is situated in Nong Khai, a city known for its proximity to the Mekong River. Some tours also include visits to the RTN Mekong Riverine Unit. Instagram

While there isn't a direct bus route mentioned, Nong Khai is a transport hub, and local transport like tuk-tuks can easily take you from bus stations or other points in the city to the temple. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no mention of an entrance fee for Wat Pho Chai, suggesting it is free to enter. It's a popular tourist spot, so it's well-maintained for visitors. Reddit

Specific opening hours are not widely published, but temples in Thailand are generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours. Instagram

No advance booking is typically required for Wat Pho Chai as it's a public temple. You can usually visit at your leisure during opening hours. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the revered Luang Phor Phra Sai, a large golden Buddha image in the Lan Xang style, housed within the main temple hall. InstagramReddit

It's important to dress modestly out of respect for the sacred nature of the temple. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Instagram

Yes, Wat Pho Chai offers many photography opportunities, from the intricate wall murals inside the Ordination Hall to the golden Buddha statue and the temple grounds. Reddit

Wat Pho Chai is known to be a focal point for local festivals, notably Songkran, where the Luang Pho Phra Sai image is brought out for the public. Instagram+1

Luang Phor Phra Sai is considered the sacred Buddha image and guardian of Nong Khai, deeply respected by the local population. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the temple itself is focused on religious activities, there are often vendors or small eateries near popular tourist sites in Thailand. It's advisable to explore the surrounding area for dining options. Reddit

Yes, Nong Khai has a vibrant food scene, especially along the Mekong River. You can find local restaurants and street food stalls offering Isan specialties in the vicinity of the temple. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The interior of the Ordination Hall with its detailed murals is a prime spot. The golden Luang Phor Phra Sai statue is also a must-capture. The temple grounds and decorated walls near the entrance offer further photo opportunities. Reddit

While generally permitted, it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially of the Buddha images. Check for any specific signage within the temple. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wat Pho Chai offers a visually engaging experience for families. The vibrant painted murals inside the Ordination Hall can capture children's imaginations, telling stories in a colorful way. Reddit While the temple is a place of worship, the spacious grounds allow for a gentle exploration, and the impressive golden Buddha statue is often a point of awe for younger visitors. Instagram Remember to dress modestly to ensure comfort and respect for all visitors. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Wat Pho Chai is a treasure trove. The intricate murals within the Ordination Hall offer incredible detail and storytelling, perfect for capturing unique shots. Reddit The Luang Phor Phra Sai statue itself, with its golden sheen, is a striking subject. Instagram Beyond the main hall, explore the temple grounds for interesting architectural details, serene spots, and even some nicely decorated walls near the entrance. Reddit The late afternoon light can also add a beautiful glow to your photos. Instagram

🧘 Spiritual Seekers

Wat Pho Chai is a significant spiritual site, home to the revered Luang Phor Phra Sai, the guardian Buddha of Nong Khai. Instagram+1 Visitors often describe a sense of peace and reverence within the temple grounds. Reddit The detailed murals offer a contemplative visual journey through Buddhist teachings. Reddit Whether you're seeking a moment of quiet reflection or a deeper connection with Thai Buddhist culture, this temple provides a serene and meaningful experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Luang Phor Phra Sai

The centerpiece of Wat Pho Chai is the magnificent Luang Phor Phra Sai, a sacred Buddha image cast in gold. Its origins are steeped in legend, with stories suggesting it was created centuries ago at the request of a Lao princess. Instagram It's considered the guardian Buddha of Nong Khai, deeply revered by locals and visitors alike for its spiritual significance and the blessings it is believed to bestow. Instagram+1

During significant festivals like Songkran, the image is often brought out from the Ubosot (ordination hall) for the public to pay their respects, creating a vibrant and communal spiritual experience. Instagram+1 The statue's graceful features and the aura of sanctity make it a compelling sight for anyone visiting the temple. Instagram

Artistry of the Ordination Hall Murals

Step inside the Ordination Hall (Ubosot) at Wat Pho Chai and prepare to be mesmerized by its walls, which are adorned with beautifully painted murals. These artworks are not just decorative; they tell stories, depicting the life of the Lord Buddha and various scenes from the daily lives of the lay townsfolk. Reddit The detail and artistry involved in these paintings offer a fascinating glimpse into Buddhist narratives and local culture. Instagram

These murals are a significant cultural treasure, providing a rich visual experience that complements the spiritual atmosphere of the temple. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the vibrant colors and intricate details, making a walk around the entire hall a rewarding experience. Reddit The artistry serves as a testament to the skill of the artists and the enduring importance of these stories within Thai Buddhism. Instagram

Temple Maintenance and Development

During recent visits, observers noted that Wat Pho Chai is an active site with ongoing landscaping and development. While this might make parts of the site appear a bit messy temporarily, it indicates a commitment to maintaining and enhancing the temple's beauty and facilities. Reddit Trees are being installed, and earthworks are underway, suggesting future improvements to the grounds. Reddit

Despite any ongoing work, the temple remains a popular tourist spot, with a large parking area accommodating many visitors. Reddit The core attractions, like the Ordination Hall and the Luang Phor Phra Sai statue, are always accessible and continue to draw visitors. The dedication to upkeep ensures that Wat Pho Chai remains a well-preserved and welcoming place of worship and cultural interest. Reddit

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