Rating: 3.8/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00–16.00

 

Wat Phai Lom, Nakhon Pathom Province, is an ancient temple of both historical and spiritual significance for local Buddhists. It is located near Phra Pathom Chedi, one of Thailand’s most important religious landmarks. The temple dates back to the reign of King Rama IV and reflects the settlement of Mon communities as well as the development of Buddhism in the Nakhon Pathom area.

 

During the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV), who had deep faith in Buddhism, a major restoration of Phra Pathom Chedi was undertaken. Mon people under royal patronage were brought in to assist with the restoration. These Mon communities settled temporarily in a bamboo forest area near the chedi, approximately 500 meters away. 

 

At that time, the area was covered with dense bamboo groves, creating a naturally shaded and peaceful environment. Over time, as residents moved away, the area became quiet and somewhat abandoned. Monks traveling on pilgrimage (thudong) discovered this place and recognized its suitability for meditation. They began to set up temporary shelters and practice meditation here, with different monks coming and going over time. 

 

Later, local villagers saw the potential of this peaceful area as a religious site and decided to establish it as a monastic residence. They invited monks from Wat Phra Pathom Chedi to stay during the Buddhist Lent. Although these stays were temporary, they marked the beginning of the site’s transformation into a temple. 

 

The Mon-descendant Thai community living in the area had strong faith in Buddhism and gradually developed the land. The once dense bamboo forest was cleared to make space for housing and temple structures. Only a small number of bamboo trees remained around the temple, which later became the origin of the name “Wat Phai Lom”, meaning “the temple surrounded by bamboo”.

 

 

At one point, Wat Phai Lom became abandoned due to the lack of an abbot and proper maintenance. In 1943, the Sangha council appointed Phra Ajarn Pool Attarakho, who was then residing at Wat Phra Ngam, to serve as acting abbot. Later, on 12 May 1949, he was officially appointed as the abbot of Wat Phai Lom. 

 

At that time, the temple did not yet have an ordination hall (ubosot) for conducting religious ceremonies. Phra Ajarn Pool collaborated with senior monks, particularly Phra Ratchathammaphorn (Luang Pho Ngern) of Wat Don Yai Hom, along with devoted lay followers, to build one. Construction began in 1947 and took approximately 3 years to complete.

 

In addition to the ubosot, Luang Pho Pool continuously developed the temple by constructing many important facilities, including a sermon hall, a Buddhist school, a crematorium, a floating meditation pavilion, a bell tower, monks’ residences, and Wat Phai Lom School. These developments greatly contributed to the temple’s growth and transformed it into a key religious center in the area.

 

Today, Wat Phai Lom remains an active place of worship where both devotees and tourists visit regularly. Many come to pay respect to the Buddha image inside the ordination hall for blessings and good fortune. A major highlight is the statue of Luang Pho Pool and his preserved body displayed in a glass coffin, which is deeply revered by followers. 

 

The atmosphere within the temple is calm and serene, making it suitable for merit-making, meditation, and quiet reflection. Despite being located near the center of Nakhon Pathom, the temple maintains a peaceful environment filled with spiritual energy. 

 

Getting There Traveling to Wat Phai Lom is convenient. From Bangkok, take Phet Kasem Road toward Nakhon Pathom, passing Nakhon Chai Si intersection and Ban Phaeo intersection. You will then reach a bridge leading into Nakhon Pathom city. After crossing the bridge, keep an eye on the left side. Continue for about 0.5 kilometers until you find Soi Phai Lom, then turn left. Drive for another 300 meters, and the temple entrance will be on the right-hand side. 

 

 

A: It is located near Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakhon Pathom Province, easily accessible from the city center.

 

A: It is famous for the preserved body of Luang Pho Pool in a glass coffin and its historical significance.

 

A: It dates back to the reign of King Rama IV.

 

A: Take Phet Kasem Road to Nakhon Pathom, then turn into Soi Phai Lom near the city center.

 

A: It is ideal for cultural tourism, religious visits, and those interested in Thai Buddhist heritage.