Wat Pa Lelai Woraviharn (Wat Pa Lelai Worawihan)
Wat Pa Lelai Woraviharn is a significant temple integral to the community of Suphanburi province and also the place where Khun Phaen, a character from the famous Thai literature work "Khun Chang Khun Phaen," ordained as a novice monk, known as Nen Kaew.
This ancient temple is located on Malaiman Road, Tambon (sub-district) Rua Yai, Mueang Suphanburi district, Suphanburi province, situated on the western bank of the Suphanburi River. Locals commonly refer to it as "Wat Pa." Inside the vihara (or main hall) is the principal Buddha image, Luang Pho To, in the Pa Lelai posture. The original statue was in the posture of giving the first sermon, similar to the white stone Buddha image, or Luang Pho Prathan Porn at Wat Phra Pathom Chedi. Later on, it was restored and transformed into the Pa Lelai posture, as seen today.
Wat Pa Lelai Woraviharn is classified as a royal monastery of the third class, at the level of Worawihan. It is an ancient temple with a pediment on the vihara that features the royal insignia of King Mongkut (Rama IV) between a pair of Royal Umbrellas. King Mongkut visited the temple during his time as a monk before his ascension to the throne and later returned to restore it.
Additionally, behind the ordination hall housing Luang Pho To, there is a small pavilion that enshrines Luang Pho Dam, another revered and sacred Buddha image, highly respected by the local community.
Address: 321 Malaiman Road, Tambon Rua Yai, Mueang Suphanburi District, Suphanburi 72000, Thailand