Ancient Bodhi & Healing Heritage

🌳 Ancient Bodhi & Healing Heritage: Wat Ton Pho Si Maha Pho & Phra Abhaibhubejhr Building, Prachinburi Prachinburi is a province where ancient spirituality and Thai wellness culture come alive. Two must-visit landmarks—Wat Ton Pho Si Maha Pho and the Phra Abhaibhubejhr Building—offer a journey through time, faith, and healing. Wat Ton Pho Si Maha Pho (วัดต้นโพธิ์ศรีมหาโพธิ) Entrance Fee & Hours: Free entry Open daily (typically sunrise to sunset) Getting There: Located in Khok Pip, Si Mahosot District, about 23 km from Prachinburi city. By car: Take Highway 319, turn at km 130–131, then 1 km to the temple. By motorcycle: Easy access and parking available. Public transport: Local buses or songthaews from Prachinburi city. History & Highlights: This temple is home to Thailand’s oldest and most sacred Bodhi tree, believed to be over 2,000 years old and a direct descendant of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, India. The tree’s trunk is about 20 meters in circumference and 30 meters tall. According to legend, the tree was planted during the Dvaravati period by a Khmer king who sent a delegation to India to bring back a cutting. The temple also features a chedi modeled after the Mahabodhi stupa, with beautiful stucco angel motifs. The Bodhi tree is a registered national heritage site and a symbol of Prachinburi. On Visakha Bucha Day, locals gather here for a special worship ceremony. Must-Do: Stand in awe beneath the ancient Bodhi tree and reflect on its spiritual significance. Explore the chedi and admire its intricate stucco work. Visit during Visakha Bucha for a unique cultural experience. Take a peaceful walk around the temple grounds, soaking in the history. Phra Abhaibhubejhr Building (ตึกพระยาอภัยภูเบศร) Entrance Fee & Hours: Free entry Open daily: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Getting There: By car: From Bangkok, take Rangsit–Nakhon Nayok–Prachinburi route, then Highway 2033 (Prachin Anusorn Road). By bus: Buses from Mo Chit (Bangkok) to Prachinburi (2–3 hours, 100–150 THB). From the bus station, take a songthaew or tuk-tuk (15–20 min, 30–50 THB). History & Highlights: Built in 1909 in European Baroque style by Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr as a royal residence for King Rama V (who passed away before visiting), the building later hosted King Rama VI and royal family members. It became a hospital and, in 1994, was transformed into the Abhaibhubejhr Thai Herbal Medicine Museum. The museum features 13 exhibition halls, including displays on Thai herbal medicine, royal history, and Prachinburi’s heritage. The building itself is a national historic monument and architectural gem. Must-Do: Tour the museum’s herbal medicine exhibits and learn about traditional Thai healing. Admire the European Baroque architecture and period furnishings. Shop for herbal products, natural cosmetics, and teas at the on-site store. Stroll the tranquil gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Travel Tips: Both sites are suitable for all ages and accessible by car or public transport. Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Allow at least half a day to enjoy both locations. From the shade of a 2,000-year-old Bodhi tree to the elegant halls of a royal-era wellness museum, Prachinburi invites you to discover its living heritage.