Wat Phra Borommathat (Koei Chai Nuea)

History & Significance

Believed to have been built during the Sukhothai period (around 1363–1369 CE), the temple was originally known as "Wat Phra Borommathat". It was officially established in 1847 and received its royal boundary (Wisungkhamsima) in 1857. The temple's history is also linked to the Ayutthaya period; oral tradition connects its restoration to the reign of King Sanphet VIII (Phra Chao Suea), who ordered materials to be transported by boat for construction. The area of Koei Chai also holds historical military significance, having served as a campsite for King Taksin the Great's army during his campaign against Phitsanulok, where he was wounded in the shin by gunfire. In 1914, Supreme Patriarch Prince Vajirananavarorasa visited the temple by boat and documented its beautiful carved slate boundary stones and ancient chedi. In 1917, the temple was renamed "Wat Koei Chai Nuea (Borommathat)" to match administrative changes.

Highlights & What to See

• Phra Borommathat Chedi: A Sukhothai-style, Sri Lankan bell-shaped chedi with an octagonal base, standing 14 meters high. During a restoration in 1970 led by Luang Pho Thong Yu, a crystal-like red relic measuring 1 inch long was discovered inside, believed to be the relic of Angulimala, a famous disciple of the Buddha, alongside the Buddha's relics.
• Wihan Phra Phuttha Sri Sanphet (Old Ubosot): Situated right on the banks of the Nan River, this old ordination hall features exquisite stucco floral patterns on its doors and windows, and double slate boundary stones (Sema) carved with celestial assembly (Thepphanom) and floral designs. Inside, it houses the sacred Phra Phuttha Sri Sanphet (Luang Pho Rung Chai) image and a statue of Luang Pho Thong Yu.
• Phaya Dang Koei Chai Giant Crocodile Museum: A two-story building. The first floor displays exhibitions on the Thai monarchy, the history of the legendary giant crocodile "Phaya Dang Koei Chai", and multimedia displays about 23 crocodile species from around the world. The second floor features the massive statue of Phaya Dang Koei Chai, measuring 7.60 meters wide, 44 meters long, and 6.30 meters high—making it the largest crocodile statue in Thailand. The interior of the crocodile statue houses a shrine room for meditation and stuffed crocodile specimens.

Visitor Information

The temple is open daily from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM. Admission is free. Visitors should dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it is an active place of worship.

How to Get There

Located in Koei Chai Sub-district, Chum Saeng District, Nakhon Sawan Province, at the confluence of the Yom and Nan Rivers. Visitors can travel by car, and parking is available on-site.