Tucked away in Chachoengsao province, just east of Bangkok, Wat Saman Rattanaram is one of Thailand’s most visually stunning and spiritually rich temples. Its massive pink reclining Ganesha statue is the largest of its kind in Thailand and a magnet for both tourists and devout Thai Buddhists.
With colorful shrines, riverside markets, family-friendly vibes, and nearby attractions, this temple makes for a perfect day trip from Bangkok. In this blog, we’ll explore how to get there, what to see, places to eat, and how much it costs to visit.
📍 Where Is Wat Saman Rattanaram Located?
Wat Saman Rattanaram is located in Chachoengsao Province, about 80 kilometers east of Bangkok, nestled on the banks of the Bang Pakong River.
- 📌 Google Maps location: Wat Saman Rattanaram
- 🕒 Open daily from 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- 💰 Entrance fee: Free (donations are welcome)
The temple grounds are vast and beautifully maintained, often bustling with worshippers, families, and curious tourists, especially on weekends and religious holidays.
🚗 How to Travel from Bangkok to Wat Saman Rattanaram
There are several ways to reach Wat Saman Rattanaram from Bangkok, depending on your budget and comfort preferences:
🚘 1. Private Car / Taxi / Grab
- Time: 1.5 – 2 hours (depending on traffic)
- Cost: 1,000–1,500 THB one-way (Grab or taxi)
- Best for families or groups who want to travel comfortably and visit multiple attractions.
🚌 2. Public Bus from Ekkamai or Mo Chit Terminal
- Take a bus to Chachoengsao City (เมืองฉะเชิงเทรา)
- From Chachoengsao Bus Terminal, take a local songthaew or tuk-tuk to the temple.
- Total cost: ~100–150 THB per person
- Travel time: 2.5–3 hours
- Budget-friendly but takes longer and involves transfers.
🚆 3. Train from Hua Lamphong Station
- Take a train to Chachoengsao Junction Station
- Tickets range from 13–40 THB (3rd to 1st class)
- From the station, hire a tuk-tuk (100–200 THB) to the temple.
- Total travel time: ~3 hours
- Scenic and charming, though not as flexible.
🛕 What to See at Wat Saman Rattanaram
🌸 1. The Giant Reclining Ganesha
- The star of the show: A massive pink reclining Ganesha stretching over 16 meters in length.
- Surrounded by 32 smaller deities believed to grant different types of blessings.
🕉️ 2. Multi-Religious Shrines
This temple is uniquely inclusive, featuring:
- Chinese gods like the Jade Emperor and Guan Yin
- Hindu deities including Shiva, Lakshmi, Vishnu, Hanuman, and Brahma
- Buddhist relics, giant Naga statues, and spiritual pavilions
🌈 3. Colorful Statues and Offerings
- Giant animal statues, zodiac shrines, and lucky numbers for lottery hopefuls
- Lotus ponds, blessing trees, and charm sellers along the river
🛍️ 4. River Market & Floating Shops
- Lined with vendors selling Thai sweets, amulets, grilled seafood, coconut ice cream, herbal drinks, and souvenirs
- Great for local snacks and photos!
🍽️ Where to Eat Nearby
After a day of spiritual exploration, you’ll be glad to find plenty of food options both inside and near the temple:
🥢 Top Picks Nearby:
- Rim Nam Restaurant – Riverside eatery with fresh Thai seafood and river fish
- Chao Phraya Food Market (inside temple) – Dozens of food stalls selling grilled meats, noodles, coconut desserts, and more
- Thaweesin Boat Noodle – Local favorite for boat noodles and Thai-style soups
- Local street vendors – Don’t miss the fresh sugarcane juice and fried bananas
📸 Other Places to Visit Nearby
Why not make it a full-day trip? Here are more places you can add to your itinerary:
- 🏯 1. Wat Pho Bang Khla (The Bat Temple): Famous for fruit bats hanging from trees around the peaceful temple grounds.
- 🐢 2. Bang Pakong Riverside: Scenic river area great for boat rides, markets, and family picnics.
- 🐉 3. Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan: The most sacred temple in Chachoengsao, with a stunning white marble pagoda and large golden Buddha statue.
- 🍋 4. Local Fruit Orchards: Visit a durian or mangosteen farm depending on the season (especially May–August).
💰 Approximate Cost of a Day Trip from Bangkok
| Item | Estimated Cost (THB) |
|---|---|
| Private Taxi (round trip) | 2,000 – 2,500 |
| Public Bus + Tuk-tuk | 150 – 200 |
| Train + Local Ride | 100 – 250 |
| Meals/Snacks | 150 – 300 |
| Souvenirs/Offerings | Optional (100–300) |
💡 Budget tip: Go in a group and split the cost of a private car or van for comfort and flexibility.
