Wat Thammachak Semaram (Wat Phra Non Khlong Khwang)

History & Significance

Wat Thammachak Semaram was established as a modern temple in 1752 CE (2295 BE) and later received its royal boundary consecration (Wisungkhamsima) in 1975 CE. However, archaeological evidence reveals that this site was originally a sacred Dvaravati religious complex dating back to around the 13th Buddhist century (circa 657 CE / 1200 BE). In 1990 CE, the Fine Arts Department excavated and carefully restored the decaying sandstone Reclining Buddha. Later, in 1995 CE, a protective shelter building was constructed above the statue to safeguard it from weather exposure.

Highlights & What to See

The temple contains several extraordinary archaeological treasures:

• The Sandstone Reclining Buddha: Constructed by assembling several large sandstone blocks, this impressive Dvaravati-style statue measures 13.30 meters in length and 2.50 meters in height. The statue's head points to the south with its face turned to the east. Characteristic Dvaravati features include a square face, connected arched unibrow, prominent downcast eyes, flat nose, spiral snail-shell hair curls, and the right hand supporting the head. It is enshrined within a brick structure encircled by boundary stones (Bai Sema).
• Ancient Sandstone Dharmachakra (Wheel of the Law): Located in front of the Reclining Buddha within an open pavilion, this solid sandstone wheel features carved spokes and depictions of Kala on both sides, with the lower part carved in a motif resembling the Panasbadi figure (guardian spirit of the forest).
• Excavated Relics: Other ancient artifacts excavated from this historic site, including bronze Buddha statues, terracotta votive tablets, glass beads, clay spindle whorls, and stone inscriptions, are preserved and displayed at the Phimai National Museum.

Visitor Information

Wat Thammachak Semaram welcomes visitors daily from 09:00 to 16:00. Admission is completely free of charge. Facilities available at the site include on-site parking and public restrooms. When visiting, please wear modest attire covering shoulders and knees to respect the religious nature of the sanctuary.

How to Get There

The temple is located at Ban Khlong Khwang, Sema Subdistrict, Sung Noen District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. It can be reached conveniently by private vehicle or local transport within the Sung Noen area.