Wat Pa Khao Noi, Phichit Province, is a private temple under the Dhammayutika Nikaya with significant importance in both Buddhism and Vipassana meditation practice. The temple is located in Ban Noen Hua Lo, Moo 5, Wang Sai Phun Subdistrict, Wang Sai Phun District. Surrounded by peaceful nature, it has become a suitable place for mindfulness cultivation and inner peace. At present, Phra Sathian Kantasilo serves as the abbot, with around 15–25 monks residing at the temple.

 

The establishment of the temple began in 1993 (B.E. 2536) when the government issued a land title deed (Nor Sor 3 Kor) to Mr. Wongduean Asayo, who had great faith in founding a temple. He donated more than 14 rai of land around Nong Faep for its construction. Later, permission to establish the temple was requested, and in 1995 (B.E. 2538), it was officially recognized as “Wat Pa Khao Noi,” with Luang Pu Am Thammakamo (Phra Khru Santivorayan) as its first abbot. In 1996 (B.E. 2539), the temple was granted Wisungkhamsima (a consecrated boundary for the ordination hall), marking its full legal establishment.

 

The temple’s history is also closely tied to the revered meditation master, Luang Pu Chanda Thavaro. Though he initially declined the abbot position, in 2006 (B.E. 2549), during his old age, he accepted it and remained in the role until the end of his life. During his residence, the temple flourished, with 50–70 monks and meditation practitioners gathering each year, reflecting its strong following and devotion from people across the country.

 

Within the temple grounds, there are many remarkable structures and sacred sites, such as the ordination hall built in the middle of Nong Faep pond, a Tripitaka library, a dining hall, over 60 permanent monastic dwellings, meditation facilities, a hot water hall, a donation storage building, a crematorium, and utility structures like ponds, water tanks, and artesian wells. Other highlights include a cave housing a replica of Luang Pho Phet, a vihara for Buddha images, Phutthamonthon Mongkolbophit, and the Chedi Si Opas Phra Borommathat. In addition, the temple features beautiful stucco works depicting the Buddha’s life, serving as an artistic way to learn the Dhamma.

 

Wat Pa Khao Noi is widely known for preserving the forest-monk tradition of Vipassana meditation. The monks here strictly observe discipline, living simply and humbly according to the Vinaya. Practitioners who come to the temple learn mindfulness in daily life and in religious activities such as walking meditation, sitting meditation, and daily chanting.

 

Those who have practiced meditation at the temple often describe it as a life-changing experience. The serene atmosphere of its 280-rai grounds, surrounded by trees and streams, helps calm the restless mind. Many discover how to cope with suffering and let go of attachment. Daily routines, such as joining monks on alms rounds and living close to their example of simplicity, reinforce the value of humility. Practicing meditation by walking or sitting near the ordination hall in the middle of the pond is often described as a deeply peaceful and transformative experience.

 

Beyond being a meditation center, Wat Pa Khao Noi also serves as a spiritual and cultural hub of Phichit Province. Locals and devotees from near and far come to worship and practice meditation. Visiting the temple is not only an act of merit-making or a search for peace but also a form of religious tourism that opens new experiences in both spirituality and culture.

 

Thus, Wat Pa Khao Noi is not merely a temple with an interesting history, but also a source of spiritual strength and a center for learning the Buddhist way of life. It connects the community with the Dhamma and stands as a spiritual heritage that ensures Buddhism remains strong and enduring in Phichit Province.