Overview:

is a large complex of ancient temples and shrines located on the banks of the Mekong River in Nong Khai Province, Thailand. It is believed to have been originally built during the Ayutthaya period and boasts of many impressive monuments and statues, some of which are still intact today, including several Buddha images and a reclining Buddha. Wat Tham Pha Ngoen is also home to many sacred relics, such as a 10th century mural depicting the previous life of Buddha, a number of ancient wooden carvings, and religious artifacts. A large complex of meditation gardens, sacred caves, and a variety of meditation facilities also make up the premises. Visitors can partake in a variety of meditative and spiritual activities, such as Buddhist ceremonies, walking meditation, and yogic practices. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

• Agrandi Statue:The 3-meter-tall bronze statue of the Buddha, housed in a large stone pagoda, is the center of worship at Wat Tham Pha Ngoen. It is said to have been discovered in the mountain of Pha Ngoen, hence the temple’s name. • Ancient Murals:The walls around the temple courtyard feature several ancient murals depicting various scenes of Buddha’s life. Many of these have been damaged due to exposure to the elements over the years, but they are still worth seeing. • Viharn:The large viharn building at Wat Tham Pha Ngoen houses the image chamber and a number of Buddha statues. This is a place of solemn meditation and contemplation, and visitors can often be seen prostrating themselves in prayer at the Buddha image within. • Monks' Chambers: There are several monks’ chambers located around the temple grounds, each one containing a number of small wooden cubicles where the resident monks live and study. Visitors are welcome to observe the monks, although it is customary to keep quiet and to take off your shoes at the door. • Cave: A cave located on the grounds of Wat Tham Pha Ngoen is said to be the site where thea Goddess of Mercy, or Kuan Yin, appeared to answer the prayers of a faithful monk. The cave itself is small and can be reached via a steep set of stairs. Once inside, visitors can light candles and make offerings in homage to the deity. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Tham Pha Ngoen is a Buddhist temple located in Nong Khai, Thailand. Wat Tham Pha Ngoen is an ancient temple with a rich history that dates back to the Ayutthaya period (14th to 16th centuries). The temple was built during the time of King Naresuan to pay respect to his father, King Prasat Thong. This temple is believed to have been a stronghold for maintaining peace and harmony in the region. Originally known as Wat Thong Kam, it was damaged by the Burmese during the mid-16th century. When King Prasat Thong passed away in 1567, King Naresuan decided to rebuild the Wat and renamed it Wat Tham Pha Ngoen. In the early 19th century, the temple went through more renovations and additions under the rule of Sri Tri Thongkam, ruler of Nakhon Nayok. In 1948, the temple was declared an official temple by the then Prime Minister Some 1832. Today, it is well known in Nong Khai for its garden, ponds, and serene atmosphere. Wat Tham Pha Ngoen is the place where locals and visitors alike come to meditate, worship, and make offerings to Buddha. It is one of the most important and influential temples in the region. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Tham Pha Ngoen in Nong Khai is the only temple in the world that contains a statue of a beloved female elephant known as 'Blossom". 2. Every year in April, Wat Tham Pha Ngoen hosts an annual temple fair where monks and locals come together to pay homage to Blossom and her trainer. 3. The temple is renowned for its giant bronze Buddha statue that is said to have been placed by King Rama V when he came to free Nong Khai from the Thai-Lao War in 1893. 4. Tham Pha Ngoen is also home to a large reclining Buddha statue that is two meters high and seven meters long. 5. It's believed that if you make a wish for good luck at Wat Tham Pha Ngoen, you will have a good year ahead. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.