🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Wat Pak Khlong Makham Thao sits right at the mouth of Khlong Makham Thao where it joins the Chao Phraya River, in Makham Thao sub-district, Wat Sing district, Chai Nat province, about 25 kilometers from Chai Nat town. The temple dates back to around 1889, originally named "Wat U Thong Pak Khlong Makham Thao" before the name was shortened to match its spot at the canal mouth. Most people come here for two main reasons: to pay respects to Luang Pu Suk, and to see the old wall murals in the chapel said to have been painted by Prince Chumphon.
Luang Pu Suk, a monk revered across the country
Luang Pu Suk, or Phra Khru Wimon Khunakon (Suk Kesaro), was the abbot of this temple. Born in Makham Thao sub-district, he lived from 1847 to 1923 and was a monk respected nationwide for his knowledge of sacred lore and amulets. What truly spread his name across the land was that Prince Chumphon (Krommaluang Chumphon Khet Udomsak), a son of King Rama V and the founding father of the Royal Thai Navy, became his disciple. The story of this teacher and student has been passed down for generations, and it's the reason this small riverside temple became known throughout the country.
Inside the temple there's a statue of Luang Pu Suk to pay respects to, and his relics are enshrined here as well. Most visitors come to ask for protection, safety, and good fortune. People who hold him in deep respect tend to return regularly: some come to make a vow, others to fulfill one, so the place gets especially lively on weekends and important religious days.
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Murals painted by the hand of Prince Chumphon
Another thing that makes this temple special is the wall murals in the ordination hall, believed to have been painted by the hand of Prince Chumphon. They were created around 1890, during the time he came to study with Luang Pu Suk. What's intriguing is that one of the walls carries an inscription in Khmer script, a historical trace that's hard to find in provincial temples. The paintings have weathered more than a hundred years, so the colors and lines show their age, but you can still clearly make out the detail and the care that went into them.
Before you go in
The ordination hall with the paintings is a sacred and very old space, and it may be closed or open only at certain times. If you're coming specifically to see the murals, it's best to ask the temple staff or a monk first, and avoid using flash when photographing them to help preserve the old paintings.
What's worth a stop inside the temple
- Luang Pu Suk statue — the main spot where people pay respects, asking for protection and good fortune
- Chapel / ordination hall with old murals — wall paintings by the hand of Prince Chumphon, along with a Khmer-script inscription
- Mondop (spired pavilion) — built around 1913, an old structure that has stood with the temple for a long time
- Prince Chumphon shrine — for those who revere "Sadet Tia," it's a common stop to pay respects alongside
- Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy) — another spot inside the temple to pray and make wishes
- Riverside terrace on the Chao Phraya — a breezy corner with a wide view of the river, a nice place to pause after visiting
Getting to the temple
The temple is in Wat Sing district, about 25 kilometers from Chai Nat town, set along Highway 3183 near the 36–37 km markers. Driving yourself is the easiest way, and there's parking at the temple. If you don't have your own car, you can charter a songthaew (shared pickup truck) or a hired vehicle from Chai Nat town, but arrange a pickup time in advance since public transport out this way doesn't pass by often.
Driving from Chai Nat town
About 25 km, roughly 30–40 min, with parking at the temple. The most flexible option.
Charter a songthaew / hired vehicle
For those without a car. Agree on the price and a pickup time before you set off.
Offerings and prayers
Basic offerings are available at shops within the temple: incense, candles, flowers, gold leaf, and other items to choose from. Most people who come to ask Luang Pu Suk for blessings pray for protection and safety, success in work, and good fortune. If you intend to obtain amulets or sacred objects, it's best to get them directly from the temple for peace of mind, and remember that the stories of sacredness are a matter of personal belief: coming with a respectful heart is enough.
Best time to visit
The temple is open daily from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Mornings are cooler and less crowded, ideal for paying respects and taking your time with the murals. Long weekends draw bigger crowds than usual.
More to explore nearby
- Chao Phraya Dam — a major water-diversion dam on the Chao Phraya basin and a popular viewpoint and photo spot in Chai Nat
- Chai Nat Bird Park — a large walk-in bird aviary, good for families and kids
- Wat Thammamun — an old temple set against a hill by the river, another important temple of Chai Nat
Want to plan a full trip of temples and places to stay in Chai Nat?
See the Chai Nat travel guide →