Discover the rich historical legacy of Wat Phet Samut Worawihan, formerly known as Wat Si Champa, a sacred temple situated in the heart of the main town in Phetchaburi province. Steeped in the annals of Thai history, this temple holds a pivotal role in the aftermath of the Burmese invasion of Petchaburi in 1764.

Legend has it that the resilient Ban Laem villagers sought refuge in this temple, then called Wat Si Champa, after the Burmese forces attacked their city. These villagers, predominantly skilled fishermen, not only played a vital role in the temple’s restoration but also gifted two remarkable Buddha images they had serendipitously caught in their trawl net during their escape. Among these precious images, one, a seated Buddha, found its home in Wat Khao Takhrao in Amphoe Ban Laem, Phetchaburi, while the other, a standing Buddha, was enshrined here at Wat Ban Laem, affectionately known as Luangpho Ban Laem.

Over time, Wat Ban Laem flourished into a revered temple, drawing devout Buddhists who gather to make merit and pay homage to the enduring image. Recognizing its cultural and spiritual significance, the temple was honored with the designation of a royal temple of the third class and renamed Wat Phet Samut Worawihan.

To experience the tranquility and cultural richness of Wat Phet Samut Worawihan, prospective visitors must secure advance permission from the temple’s abbot for admission. Embark on a journey through time, where the echoes of Thai historical migration and the enduring spirituality of this revered temple converge in a harmonious blend of reverence and serenity.