Phra Phutthabat & Phra Phutthacha
Saraburi in One Day

✍️ By Doctor Chat

🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026

Wat Phra Phutthabat Ratchaworamahawihan and Wat Phra Phutthacha are the two temples Saraburi locals and merit-makers think of first. The first enshrines a footprint of the Buddha believed to be one of five according to the Theravada Lankan tradition. The second holds the Phra Phutthacha — a shadow-like image of the Buddha on a rock face — along with a right footprint relic and prehistoric rock paintings at the base of the cliff. Completely different draws, but just a 30-minute drive apart, which makes them perfect for a single trip.

Before you plan the day, note two key times: Wat Phra Phutthabat opens around 06:00, while Wat Phra Phutthacha opens at 07:00 and closes earlier, around 17:00. So this itinerary starts at Phra Phutthabat in the morning, then loops back to Phra Phutthacha in the afternoon — it's also closer to Saraburi town and on the way back to Bangkok, so leaving from there in the evening works out perfectly.

Full-Day Schedule — No Rushing Required

This plan is built for people driving from Bangkok. If you're coming by bus or train, the temple order stays the same — just adjust your departure time.

Getting There Without a Car

Both temples are doable without your own vehicle, but you'll need to factor in extra connection time. The easiest approach is to take a bus or train to Saraburi first, then arrange local transport from there.

• Train — Northern and Northeastern line trains stop at Saraburi and Phra Phutthabat stations. From Phra Phutthabat station, take a songthaew (shared pickup truck) or motorcycle taxi to the temple.
• Bus (BKS) — Frequent departures from Mo Chit terminal to Saraburi. From the Saraburi town terminal, charter a songthaew or red-plate taxi to both temples. Works especially well if you're in a group.
• Charter a local vehicle — Once you're in Saraburi town, hiring a songthaew or local driver to cover both temples in one run is better value than paying per trip. Agree on a price before you get in.
• Rent a car from Bangkok — The most flexible option for a one-day plan, since the two temples are in different districts. Driving yourself means you control the clock.

What to Prepare Before You Go

• Dress modestly — Both are royal temples. Cover shoulders and knees. Shoes come off before entering the pavilion.
• Comfortable walking shoes — Wat Phra Phutthacha has a staircase up the hill and some slippery stone sections. Sneakers are a safer call than sandals.
• Watch out for monkeys at Phra Phutthacha — Keep bags, food, phones, and glasses secure. Don't tease them.
• Bring water and a hat or umbrella — Temple courtyards and the hillside path get direct sun around midday.
• Carry cash — Incense, offerings, merit-making donations, and small stalls near the temples are mostly cash only.

Extra Stops If You Have Time

If you get through both temples faster than expected and still have energy, Saraburi has a few easy add-ons that don't pull you too far off route.