Wat Nong Ket Yai, located in Nong Pla Lai Subdistrict, Chon Buri Province, is an ancient temple with a long and rich history. It was first established in 1771 (B.E. 2314). According to local legend, a man named Saeng Thong, who was wealthy and owned vast farmlands along with many servants, lived in this area with his daughter, Thongkham. One day, while Saeng Thong was working in his fields, he encountered a wandering monk named Luang Ta Klap. They engaged in conversation, and the monk suggested building a temple to serve as a spiritual center for the local community.

 

Luang Ta Klap then invited two brothers who were skilled craftsmen and monks residing at Wat Nong Yai to help design and construct the temple’s ordination hall (ubosot). Gradually, the temple began to take shape and became a vital religious hub for the surrounding community. In its early days, the temple was simply called “Wat Yai,” meaning “Great Temple,” due to its size and importance.

 

Later, in either 1916 or 1917 (the exact year is uncertain), Somdet Phra Maha Samanachao Krom Phraya Vajirananavarorasa, the Supreme Patriarch at that time, visited various provinces and eventually arrived at this temple. After observing its significance and development, he decreed that the temple’s name be officially changed to “Wat Nong Ket Yai,” the name by which it is still known today. At that time, Luang Pu Sai served as the abbot and also held the position of the district ecclesiastical governor of Bang Lamung District, playing a key role in managing and developing the temple.

 

Today, Wat Nong Ket Yai covers an area of 3 rai, 2 ngan, and 99 square wah. Although not very large, it remains a place of deep spiritual and cultural value. The temple continues to be a focal point for community activities and religious ceremonies such as Visakha Bucha Day, Magha Bucha Day, Buddhist Lent, and the End of Buddhist Lent, fostering unity and faith among local residents.

 

The succession of abbots throughout the temple’s history reflects the continuity of its development and spiritual leadership. The first known abbot was Phra Khru Chan, who laid the foundation for the temple around 200 years ago. He was succeeded by Phra Khru Thammathon Lon Khet, commonly known as Luang Pu Phong, who was highly respected by the local community. Later, Phra Khru Wiboon Nawakan (Thong-In Charuwangso) became the abbot until his passing in 1992 (B.E. 2535). He also served as the deputy district ecclesiastical governor of Bang Lamung. The current abbot, Phra Khru Wimon Chariyasangkan, continues to lead the temple and concurrently serves as the ecclesiastical head of Nong Prue Subdistrict, Zone 1.

 

With a history spanning over 250 years, Wat Nong Ket Yai is not only a religious site but also a symbol of faith and community spirit. The story of its founding, sparked by a chance meeting between a wandering monk and a local villager, continues to be told through generations, preserving the temple’s historical legacy.

 

In the present day, the temple plays an important role in promoting Buddhism and serving as a venue for various public service activities. Locals maintain a close connection with the temple, regularly participating in merit-making, listening to sermons, and working together to preserve and renovate temple structures such as the ordination hall and sermon hall. Annual festivals and merit-making events further strengthen the bond between the temple and the community.

 

Architecturally, Wat Nong Ket Yai retains elements of its original design, including the ubosot built during its early years. These structures have been restored several times to maintain their beauty and integrity, showcasing a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern improvements. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere and spiritual serenity that the temple offers, surrounded by well-maintained natural surroundings.

 

Wat Nong Ket Yai stands as a testament to enduring faith and cultural heritage. Even after centuries, it continues to reflect the unity and devotion of the local people, serving as a living historical monument that preserves Thai art, tradition, and Buddhism for future generations.