Located in the centre of town, Wat Hua Hin is the main temple in Hua Hin and a significant landmark for both locals and visitors.
Known for its spiritual significance and historic roots, the temple offers a chance to experience local religious traditions and pay respect to one of the area’s most revered monks, Luang Pu Nak.
Originally established in 1896 during the reign of King Rama V, the temple was first known as Wat Amparam. Over the years, it was renamed Wat Hua Laem before finally becoming Wat Hua Hin, the name it holds today. The temple belongs to the Maha Nikaya monastic order and sits on more than 17 rai of land.
Wat Hua Hin’s first abbot was Luang Pu Nak, a respected meditation master originally from Phetchaburi. After studying Khmer script and Buddhist teachings in various provinces, he returned to monastic life in 1892 and became the temple’s abbot. Known for his practice of vipassana meditation and close connection to King Rama VI, Luang Pu Nak was widely respected. He passed away in 1929 and remains an important spiritual figure in Hua Hin to this day.
A place to make merit and seek blessings
Inside the temple, visitors can find a Buddha image in the Maravijaya posture, a Buddha relic, a replica of the Buddha’s footprint, and cast images of Luang Pu Nak and other respected monks. The interior walls are decorated with murals depicting Jataka tales – stories from the Buddha’s past lives – and the hall features open windows allowing for natural ventilation.
A key point of interest is the Viharn Luang Pho Nak, which houses many sacred objects and is open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors often try their luck with fortune sticks or make a wish by touching the temple’s elephant statue, believed to bring good fortune. The area next to the viharn is where visitors can make merit and offer sangkhathan (monk offerings). Monks are typically available to receive offerings until around 2 p.m.
The temple is also known for its association with blessings related to luck and career advancement. It is common for worshippers to offer boiled eggs to Luang Pu Nak as a gesture of thanks when their wishes come true.
Several key structures are located on the temple grounds, including the ordination hall (built in 1898), a two-storey sermon hall (built in 1978), a prayer hall, a monk’s residence, a three-storey multi-purpose pavilion, a funeral pavilion, and a bell tower.
Wat Hua Hin remains an active community temple and continues to be an important destination for those seeking spiritual connection. It also offers convenient facilities, including a spacious car park for visitors.
Whether you are living in Hua Hin or visiting the city, this historic temple provides a meaningful experience and insight into local culture.
📍 Wat Hua Hin
Open daily: 06:00 – 18:00
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Wat Hua Hin
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