Wat Sothonwararam

Wat Sothonwararam is a first-class royal Buddhist temple located on the Bang Pakong River in Na Mueang, Mueang Chachoengsao, Chachoengsao Province. Originally called Wat Hong and dating to the late Ayutthaya period, it enshrines Luang Pho Sothon, one of Thailand's most highly revered Buddha images. The temple is notable for its large white marble ubosot, riverside setting, and status as a major pilgrimage destination in eastern Thailand.

Visitors can expect a large, active riverside temple complex centered on an ornate white marble ubosot housing the Luang Pho Sothon Buddha image. The grounds include prayer halls, offering areas for eggs and garlands, amulet and souvenir markets, food stalls along the river, and open courtyards. The interior features murals, marble decoration, and devotees making merit. The temple is busy with worshippers, especially on weekends, and offers views of the Bang Pakong River.

Originally known as Wat Hong, the temple was built in the late Ayutthaya period. It became famous for enshrining Luang Pho Sothon, a Buddha image believed to have floated down the Bang Pakong River along with two other brother images. The temple was later renamed Wat Sothonwararam and was elevated to a royal temple of the third class, Worawihan type, in 1958. The present large marble ubosot was constructed in the late 20th century to accommodate growing numbers of pilgrims.

Wat Sothonwararam is one of the most important pilgrimage temples in eastern Thailand due to the deep reverence for Luang Pho Sothon. Thai Buddhists believe the image brings good fortune and fulfills wishes, leading to traditions of offering boiled eggs, garlands and votive dances. The temple plays a central role in local religious festivals and daily merit-making for residents of Chachoengsao and visitors from across Thailand.