Legend whispers of a floating Buddha. This isn’t just any tale. It’s the story of Luang Pho To at Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai. This majestic temple stands proudly on the outskirts of Bangkok. Its history stretches back to the Ayutthaya period. Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai wasn’t always known by this name. It was originally called Wat Phlapphla Chai Chana Songkhram. This translates to ‘victory pavilion temple’. It commemorates King Naresuan’s triumph over the Burmese army in this very area.
Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai holds a special place in Thai hearts. Its claim to fame is Luang Pho To. This principal Buddha statue is one of the most revered in all of Thailand. Imagine the scene. Three brothers flee a brutal war with Burma. Amidst chaos and fear they see something incredible. A magnificent Buddha statue floats serenely on the Khlong Samrong canal. This is the Luang Pho To. Folklore tells various versions of its arrival. Some say it floated on the tides. Others speak of four or even two other sacred Buddha statues arriving alongside it. These other statues now reside in different temples across Thailand. Luang Pho Sothon is in Wat Sothonwararam in Chachoengsao. Luang Pho Wat Rai Khing is in Wat Rai Khing in Nakhon Pathom. Luang Pho Ban Laem sits in Wat Ban Laem in Samut Songkram. Finally Luang Pho Thong or Luang Pho Wat Khao Takrao is in Wat Khao Takrao in Phetchaburi.
Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai is more than just a stunning temple. It’s the heart of a vibrant community. The Old Bang Phli Market thrives next door. This traditional marketplace is over 100 years old. It boasts a charm that is increasingly rare today. Its quaint shops line the Khlong Samrong canal offering a unique cultural experience. This market isn’t some forgotten relic. It is a bustling place full of life and history. This unique market is a significant cultural treasure alongside the temple.
The temple and market sit peacefully. They are nestled behind the Big C Bang Phli supermarket on Thepharak Road kilometer 13. So as you stand here today you are witnessing a living testament to faith resilience and the enduring spirit of Thailand. You’ve not just visited a temple. You’ve witnessed a legend. You’ve explored a piece of Thai history. You’ve felt the pulse of a vibrant community. You’ve experienced Wat Bang Phli Yai Nai.