Wat Nang Nai Dhammikaram (Wat Nang Nai)

Wat Nang Nai Dhammikaram is a prominent Maha Nikaya monastery situated in the historic trading hub of Wiset Chai Chan, Ang Thong Province. Known locally as Wat Nang Nai, the temple serves as both an important spiritual anchor and a site of distinctive architectural heritage.

History & Significance

The temple was established around 1850 (2393 BE) following the passing of King Rama III (Phrabat Somdet Phra Nangklao Chao Yu Hua). Female palace attendants hailing from Wiset Chai Chan pooled their resources to build a place of worship in their native hometown to dedicate merit to the late monarch. The temple was granted royal boundary status (Wisungkhamsima) around 1910 (2453 BE). Extensive restoration and development began in 1925 (2468 BE) under the leadership of Phra Upajjhaya Num Dhammaramo (Luang Pho Num), an exceptional Buddhist scholar and master monk who developed the temple alongside local villagers.

Highlights & What to See

• Ho Buraphachan (Master Memorial Hall): A unique concrete structure designed by the faculty of King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL). Built directly over the original traditional hip-roof wooden residence (kuti) where Luang Pho Num and Luang Pho Chom lived for decades, it houses valuable historical objects, images, and tribute items commemorating both revered former abbots.
• The Historic Ubosot: The ordination hall was preserved in its original form and restored in 1963 (2506 BE). It features boundary marker stones (Bai Sema) uniquely embedded directly into the outer walls of the hall.
• Applied Traditional Sala Kan Parian: An open-air sermon hall located behind the main grounds, which houses various Buddha statues in different postures.
• Twelve-Indented-Corner Chedis: Two traditional stupas featuring classic twelve-indented corner architectural styling.
• Luang Pho Num Statue & Votive Traditions: Worshippers regularly come to pray before the sacred statue of Luang Pho Num. A distinct local custom involves offering bottled carbonated soft drinks when prayers are fulfilled. Every year during Chinese New Year, the temple hosts a major annual festival featuring a gold-leaf gilding ceremony on the statue of Luang Pho Num.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: Open daily from 07:00 to 17:00.
• Admission: Free entry.
• Dress Code & Etiquette: Please dress respectfully with covered shoulders and knees when visiting sacred buildings and memorial areas.

How to Get There

The temple is located at 99/7 Moo 7, Ban Nang Nai, San Chao Rong Thong Subdistrict, Wiset Chai Chan District, Ang Thong Province, right in the San Chao Rong Thong Market area.