Wat Chaiyo Worawihan, also known as Wat Ket Chaiyo, sits gracefully on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, showing the beauty of a second-class royal monastery, constructed during the reign of King Rama IV. Crafted from white plaster, its inception traces back to the venerable Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To Phromrangsi) a revered monk of Wat Rakhangkhositaram in Thonburi, who brought forth the majestic meditation posture Buddha image or Luang Pho To among the open expanse. In 1887, the strong shaking during the foundation-laying ceremony caused the original statue to collapse, prompting King Rama V to commission a new Luang Pho To, modelled after the one at Wat Kalayanamit. This new Luang Pho To statue, measuring lap width of 16.10 metres and the height (from radiance to feet) of 22.65 metres, was bestowed the name “Phra Mahaphutthaphim”. Its consecration marked the grandest celebration in the history of Ang Thong province at that time. The resplendent Luang Pho To statue is enshrined in a majestic image hall, drawing devout Buddhists from far and wide to pay their respects. Adjacent to the front of the hall stands a magnificent ubosot, constructed in traditional Thai architecture, with its front facing towards the Chao Phraya River. Within the ubosot, mural paintings depicting the life of the Buddha, created by artisans during the reign of King Rama V, adorn the walls. Presently, Wat Chaiyo Worawihan has undergone extensive renovations, enhancing its beauty and grandeur even further.
