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Wat Sai Ngam Temple, Suphanburi, Thailand
Wat Sai Ngam, located in Suphanburi, Thailand, is a lesser-known but beautiful temple known for its peaceful environment and connection to local Buddhist traditions. While it may not have the same fame as larger or more historic temples, it offers a charming and authentic experience for visitors interested in Thai culture and spirituality.
Meaning of Name
‘Temple of beautiful banyan trees.’ Also known as Wat Trai Ngarm.
Address
Tambon Donmasang, Amper Muang, Suphanburi 72000. Telephone – (035) 522-005.
Directions
From Bangkok, take a bus from the Northern (Moh Chit) Bus Terminal to Suphanburi, 100 km to the northwest, then take a local bus northeast 15 km on the road to Ang Thong. The wat is a short walk of 0.5 km.
Wat Sai Ngam is situated in Suphanburi, a province known for its rich history and connection to the ancient kingdom of Ayutthaya. The temple is surrounded by natural beauty, including trees and green spaces, providing a tranquil atmosphere for meditation and reflection.
Meditation System
Ajahn Dhammadharo developed a vipassana technique using hand movements that gave good results in his practice. After 9 years of using this method, he felt confident in teaching it to others. Sitting meditation typically begins with some metta practice (benefits include helping to clear the mind of hindrances) followed by anapansati (to calm the mind).
One then begins the prescribed hand and finger movements, using either arm, while directing attention to the palm or fingers. Sensations arising in the hand, then extending along the arm to the chest, back, and head are used in the development of clear comprehension leading to penetrating insight. Touch-point sensations are used too.
The meditation system instructions have been translated into English in the book, The Manual of Insight Meditation. Practicing Clear Comprehension in Accordance with the Maha Satipatthana Sutta, by Pannavuddho Bhikkhu. This book should be available at the wat.
While Wat Sai Ngam may not be a large meditation center, it provides a peaceful environment for those seeking to practice meditation or mindfulness in a quiet, natural setting. Visitors can experience walking meditation around the temple grounds or participate in traditional Buddhist rituals with the local community.
Teaching Method
Lectures (occasionally by Ajahn Dhammadharo) and by asking questions. Books and tapes in Thai can be purchased, as can the English book by Pannavuddho.
You can likely engage in self-directed meditation practice at Wat Sai Ngam by just following these suggestions.
Joining Local Meditation Sessions – Many local temples allow visitors to participate in meditation alongside monks during morning or evening chanting sessions. While the sessions may not be guided, the peaceful environment allows for personal practice.
Walking Meditation – With a tranquil temple setting, visitors are welcome to do walking meditation around the temple grounds, often practiced in the early morning or evening in Thai temples.
Private Time for Meditation? You can ask the temple monks if it’s possible to spend time meditating quietly within the temple or in a designated area of the temple grounds. Some temples will offer guidance if requested, though it may not be formalized.
Meditation Teachers
Ajahn Dhammadharo, abbot (Thai) assisted by senior monks.
Language
One should speak good Thai in order to take advantage of the teachings here. Some monks and nuns can speak a little English.
Description
A large temple of 70 rai (28 acres) surrounded by rice fields. Trees shade the central area. On arrival at the main entrance, you’ll find the office in the raised building on the left just past the abbot’s house; the large sala ahead, also on stilts, is used for eating and meditation; turn left at the junction and follow the path for the //bot//, exceptionally beautiful even by high Thai standards. The Buddha image inside sits in a teaching pose under a large artificial tree.
Size
- monks: about 100-120
- novices: 15-20
- nuns: 80-100
- laymen: about 10
- laywomen: 20-30
Daily Routine
4 am. chanting in “bot;” 5 am. monks and novices leave for pindabat by bus; 8 am. first meal; 11 am. second meal; 2-4 pm. sitting and standing meditation; 4-5 pm. walking meditation; 5 pm. drink; 6:30 pm. sitting and standing meditation; 8 pm. lecture; 9-10 pm. walking meditation.
Food
Good quality and variety. Monks and novices take a temple bus to Suphanburi, Ang Thong, or other nearby towns for pindabat; laypeople are welcome to come along and help collect food. Two meals in the morning; nuns and laypeople eat after monks and novices.
Accommodations
Monks and novices stay in individual kutis of stone or wood; fairly close together. All have electricity and running water; newer kutis have Thai-style bathrooms. Laymen have shared rooms or dormitories; nuns and laywomen usually share rooms.
Write in Advance?
Not necessary.
Ordination
Can be requested for novices, monks, or magee.
Other Information
Ajahn Dhammadharo began teaching about 1954. His first center was Wat Chai Na (Wat Tow Kote) in Nakhon Sri Thammarat Province in the south. In the 1970s he moved to his home province and founded Wat Sai Ngam. Discipline is left mostly to the individual.
Laypeople observe 8 precepts and wear white; they also wear a white sash over their shoulder. The sash pah sabay chieng can be purchased in the temple shop. Unless entering or leaving the temple grounds, residents walk barefoot everywhere.
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