Wat Prachum Khongkha, commonly known among locals as Wat Rong Po, is an ancient temple located in Moo 3, Bang Lamung Subdistrict Municipality, Chonburi Province. This temple has long been a spiritual center for the local community, especially since the area has been closely connected to the sea and fishing activities for generations. In the past, most villagers earned their living through fishing, and the temple was built through the collective effort of the community to serve as a place for religious practice and important Buddhist ceremonies. Although the exact year of its establishment is unknown, the temple is considered to be very old, as the surrounding area has historically been a vital center of trade and livelihood along the coast.

 

The name Prachum Khongkha, which translates to “gathering of water,” reflects the temple’s close relationship with the natural environment and local way of life. In earlier times, there was a freshwater well within the temple grounds that was crucial for villagers. Because the area near the sea mainly had brackish or salty water, locals depended on this well as a source of clean water for drinking and cooking. It became an essential part of the community’s survival, and the temple’s name symbolizes the meeting place of both pure water and people. The nickname Wat Rong Po comes from the presence of rong po, or fish trap stations, which were used for storing and repairing fishing gear. These structures were common in the area, making the name stick in the minds of locals over time.

 

Located just 250 meters from Sukhumvit Road, at the 135-kilometer marker, the temple is easily accessible by a four-meter-wide connecting road. Today, Wat Prachum Khongkha is recognized as one of the most important Buddhist cultural attractions in Bang Lamung District. The temple’s architecture is striking, having been well-maintained and restored through the years. One of its most significant features is the grand stupa enshrining the sacred relics of the Buddha, which draws countless devotees seeking blessings and spiritual merit.

 

The temple also houses a beautifully designed ordination hall (ubosot), with intricate craftsmanship both inside and out. Inside the ubosot, a revered Buddha image is enshrined, serving as a focal point for meditation, prayer, and worship. Throughout the year, especially on major Buddhist holidays such as Visakha Bucha Day, Asalha Bucha Day, and the beginning of Buddhist Lent, the temple becomes a hub of spiritual activity where people gather to make merit, meditate, and participate in traditional ceremonies. The peaceful and sacred atmosphere makes it a place of solace for both locals and visitors.

 

Another highlight of the temple is the Four-Faced Brahma Shrine located within its grounds. This shrine has become particularly popular among Chinese tourists, who visit to pay respects and seek blessings for prosperity and good fortune. As a result, Wat Prachum Khongkha has become a unique spiritual destination, blending Thai Buddhist traditions with broader cultural and religious practices that appeal to both Thai and international visitors.

 

In 1999 (B.E. 2542), the temple was under the leadership of Phra Khru Phiphatthammasakun (Charin Wijittako), who played a key role in maintaining the temple’s spiritual integrity while also developing it as a cultural landmark. Under his guidance, the temple continued to be a center for community activities, local festivals, and Buddhist teachings, fostering unity and preserving the cultural heritage of Bang Lamung.

 

Today, Wat Prachum Khongkha stands not only as a sacred site of worship but also as a living testament to the history and traditions of the coastal community. Visitors can explore its stunning architecture, experience its tranquil surroundings, and learn about the deep connection between faith, water, and the fishing culture that shaped the region. A visit to Wat Prachum Khongkha offers both spiritual enrichment and a deeper appreciation for the unique heritage of Chonburi’s seaside communities.