How to Visit Wat Saman Rattanaram from Bangkok
If you are searching for how to get to Wat Saman Rattanaram from Bangkok, the simplest answer is: take a train to Chachoengsao Junction, then a songthaew or taxi to the temple. The whole trip takes about 1.5–2 hours each way, making it an easy day trip or a relaxed overnight stay. This guide covers the logistics, plus a fun and affordable place to stay if you decide to linger.
Getting to Wat Saman Rattanaram
Wat Saman Rattanaram is famous for its giant pink reclining Ganesha statue, the largest in Thailand. It sits on the Bang Pakong River in Chachoengsao province, about 80 km east of Bangkok. Here is the most straightforward route:
- Train from Bangkok to Chachoengsao Junction: Trains depart from Hua Lamphong (Bangkok Railway Station) several times daily. The journey takes roughly 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Fares are around ฿30–50 per person. Check the SRT schedule online or at the station on the day, as times change seasonally. Arrive 30 minutes early to buy tickets.
- From Chachoengsang Junction to Wat Saman Rattanaram: The temple is about 12 km from the station. Take a songthaew (shared pickup truck) or a taxi. Songthaews run along the main road; tell the driver “Wat Saman” and expect to pay around ฿20–30 per person. A private taxi costs about ฿150–200. The ride takes 20–30 minutes.
- Alternative by bus: Buses from Bangkok’s Ekkamai or Mo Chit terminals go to Chachoengsao town, then you need a local songthaew or taxi. The train is simpler and more scenic.
- By car: Drive via Highway 304 (Bang Na–Trat) or Motorway 7, then follow signs to Chachoengsao. Free parking is available at the temple.
Once at the temple, you will see the giant pink reclining Ganesha immediately. It is 16 metres tall and 22 metres long, beautifully painted and surrounded by smaller statues, shrines, and a market. Allow 1–2 hours to explore, take photos, and make offerings. The temple is open daily from early morning until around 6 p.m.
Why Stay Overnight in Chachoengsao
Chachoengsao is a quiet, riverfront town with a relaxed pace. Staying overnight lets you visit Wat Saman Rattanaram early (before crowds) and also explore other nearby attractions. The best budget option is Krazy Home by Mama Sue, a charming guesthouse run by a 67-year-old Catholic host named Mama Sue. She ran Krazy Kitchen in Pai for 30 years and now welcomes guests to her home in Chachoengsao.
Krazy Home is about 10 minutes by taxi from Chachoengsao Junction station. Rooms cost ฿500 per night, cash only on arrival. Booking is done exclusively through Facebook: Mama Sue’s Facebook page. The accommodation is simple, clean, and homely, with a shared bathroom and kitchen access. Mama Sue is known for her warm hospitality and can help you arrange transport to temples or markets.
Other Temples and Spots Near Chachoengsao
If you have a day or two, add these places to your itinerary:
- Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan: The most revered temple in the province, home to the Luang Phor Sothon Buddha image. It is in the town centre, about 15 minutes from the station. The temple is large, ornate, and always busy with Thai pilgrims. A short walk from the riverfront.
- Wat Pho Bang Khla: Known for its bat cave and thousands of fruit bats that fly out at dusk. The full name is Wat Pho Bang Khla; locals sometimes call it the bat temple. It is about 20 km from town, so a taxi or songthaew is needed. Best visited around 5–6 p.m. to see the bats emerge.
- Baan Mai Riverside Market: Also called Ban Mai 100-Year Market, this is a charming wooden market along the Bang Pakong River. It has old shophouses, street food, and local crafts. Open weekends and public holidays. About 15 minutes from the station by songthaew.
- Bang Pakong River: You can take a longtail boat tour from the market or near Wat Sothon. Tours are informal; ask at the pier. The river is scenic, with stilt houses and temples along the banks.
Sample Itinerary for a Day Trip from Bangkok
- 8:00 a.m.: Take the train from Hua Lamphong to Chachoengsao Junction.
- 9:30 a.m.: Arrive, take a songthaew to Wat Saman Rattanaram.
- 10:00 a.m.: Explore the pink Ganesha, surrounding shrines, and market.
- 12:00 p.m.: Lunch at the temple market or a riverside restaurant.
- 1:30 p.m.: Songthaew back to town, visit Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan.
- 3:00 p.m.: Walk to Baan Mai Riverside Market (if weekend) or relax by the river.
- 4:30 p.m.: Train back to Bangkok (check schedule; there are afternoon departures).
If you stay overnight, add Wat Pho Bang Khla at dusk and a morning boat ride on the Bang Pakong River.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Saman Rattanaram free to enter?
Yes, entry to the temple is free. Donations are welcome. Parking is also free.
How long do I need at the temple?
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours. The main attraction is the giant pink reclining Ganesha. There are also smaller shrines, a market, and food stalls. If you want to make offerings or take many photos, allow 2 hours.
Can I visit Wat Saman Rattanaram and Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan in one day?
Yes, they are about 15 minutes apart by songthaew or taxi. Start at Wat Saman in the morning, then head to Wat Sothon in the afternoon. Both are open daily. A day trip from Bangkok is very doable.
Note: Train and bus schedules can change. Always check SRT or Google Maps on the day for accurate times. Cash is essential for local transport and Krazy Home.
Stay with Mama Sue · ฿500 / night
Private room in Chachoengsao (~1 hr from Bangkok, ~10 min from the railway station). Cash only on arrival. Book by messaging Facebook only: