Rating: 3.8/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00

 

Wat Wang Wa is an old temple and the spiritual center of the community in Klaeng District, Rayong Province. It was built on faith, beginning as a small hermitage by a canal under large shade trees before gradually growing into one of the East’s important temples. The temple became widely known nationwide as the residence and practice place of a highly revered monk, Phra Mongkhon Silachan (Luang Pu Khram Yosotharo), a great elder who lived simply, strictly observed the monastic discipline, and was manifestly compassionate. People therefore called him the “Deity of the East.” This devotion is not only rooted among Rayong locals but has spread to neighboring provinces and seekers from every region who stream in to pay homage throughout the year.

 

The name “Wang Wa” ties back to the area’s original landscape, where Java plum (wa) trees once grew thickly along the canal. Locals called the area “Wang Wa,” and the name was passed on to the temple. With land close to water and the shelter of big trees, the surroundings are cool, quiet, and airy—ideal for meditation. Passing through the gate, visitors often feel a calm that gently softens the heart, as if setting worries down outside. This tranquility makes Wat Wang Wa a place for “deep breathing,” in both body and mind.

 

The heart of Wat Wang Wa’s living story is the life and practice of Luang Pu Khram Yosotharo. Born in 1897 (BE 2440) in Thailand’s Eastern region, he grew up in a rural way of life intertwined with waterways and fields. As a young man he was ordained and earnestly studied the Dhamma and Vinaya, learning from many masters. He also went on forest pilgrimages through mountains and rural communities, persistently contemplating the Three Characteristics and cultivating mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom. His long, steady effort made him a field of merit. People said he possessed remarkable loving-kindness, evident in his gentle teachings and in how he supported those in hardship.

 

After he came to reside at Wat Wang Wa, the temple expanded in an orderly way—monks’ quarters, a multi-purpose pavilion, a Dhamma school, and open-air practice areas where people could sit in silence. He was not only a “teacher,” but also a “doer,” helping the community through charity, education, and the careful upkeep of sacred buildings. His development style was simple yet effective: build only what’s necessary, keep everything clean and tidy, and receive everyone with equal respect.

 

Regarding sacred objects, Luang Pu Khram is praised as one of the East’s great masters whose amulets are widely cherished. His first-issue coins, the “Charoen Phon” series, various Buddha images, and items consecrated by his firm resolve are renowned for charm, career and trade prosperity, and protection. These are not mere items to carry, but “symbols of the heart” recalling virtue, diligence, and compassion—the core of his teachings. Many recount that living by his guidance in mindfulness and effort gradually stabilized their lives; the coin is like a pass that brings the heart back to Dhamma.

 

His teachings were not complicated. He often spoke in simple, accessible language such as “When the mind is calm, wisdom arises.” Those seeking blessings thus received both encouragement and practical methods—mindfulness of breathing, continuous awareness in daily activities, and communal support grounded in kindness. This simplicity let his teachings travel across time; people of different eras could apply them without feeling distant.

 

Wat Wang Wa is therefore not just a “place,” but an “experience” nurtured by small things: the swept paths each morning, pavilions where one can sit quietly, birdsong at dawn, and the smiles of lay devotees welcoming visitors with warmth. Together, these create a “sense of safety” that lets visitors set aside urgency for a while and turn toward inner stillness.

 

Architecturally, Wat Wang Wa is never ostentatious. The ordination hall, monks’ quarters, pavilions, and stupa keep balanced proportions. The details are clean, emphasizing solidity and real use. Approaching the stupa where Luang Pu’s body is enshrined, reverent calm usually arises unforced. The surrounding area is well organized, with orderly spots for flowers, incense, and candles so everyone can pay homage quietly. This orderliness reflects the “discipline” deeply rooted in the temple’s and disciples’ ways.

 

Throughout the year, the temple holds Buddhist ceremonies in the major festivals—Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asalha Bucha, and Buddhist Lent. Candlelight processions at night are when the temple glows with hundreds of flames, and synchronized chanting sends a gentle vibration through participants’ hearts. At year’s end on December 1st—the anniversary of Luang Pu’s passing—the temple is especially lively. Disciples from near and far come to make merit, listen to Dhamma talks, set up charity kitchens, and pay homage to his body with gratitude. The event is not just a merit-making day; it’s also a gathering where people of different generations share memories of him, weaving collective remembrance forward.

 

Socially, Wat Wang Wa has long served as a community hub—once a place where monks taught local children to read and write, and a venue where villagers met to discuss communal matters. Many families are bound to the temple through life-cycle rituals from birth to death: the novice ordination blessing, ordination, house-blessing ceremonies, and funeral chanting. As long as the temple remains a refuge of the heart, the community maintains a common center of gravity. This closeness shows how faith in Luang Pu Khram has woven bonds that turn people toward each other with compassion.

 

Many visitors say their most memorable moment is early morning alms-rounds. Villagers line up with tiffins and hot rice, simple local dishes—vegetable soups, clear broths, boiled greens with chili paste. Smiles and a simple “sadhu” are exchanged. It’s a plain scene filled with inner beauty. Many then go to pay homage to Luang Pu’s body, sit quietly for a while, and stroll slowly around the grounds to let the silence do its work.

 

The temple suits gradual Dhamma practice. Beginners can start with 10–15 minutes of mindful breathing, walk slowly in meditation, then sit again—just staying with the present, not pushing thoughts away or forcing calm. If done consistently, each return to the temple often brings growing familiarity and inner quiet. Many practitioners’ stories affirm that having such a place nearby is a blessing, connecting daily life to Dhamma almost without noticing.

 

For those interested in amulets, even as famous series draw many seekers, the temple and disciples gently remind: “Do not let objects replace Dhamma.” A coin or Buddha image is only a reminder of a teacher’s virtue. What truly steadies life is practice—mindfulness, kindness, effort, and right livelihood. Elders often recount stories of Luang Pu while weaving in practical maxims—saving, honesty in work, caring for others—all aligned with fundamental Buddhist principles.

 

Walking the grounds reveals many quiet corners—verandas by the pond, paths under tall trees, and small breezy pavilions. These are kept spotless, with bins and signage for basic etiquette: dress modestly, keep voices low, don’t climb on structures, and don’t touch the enshrined body. Shared care for these small rules preserves the temple’s orderliness and its capacity to host peaceful hearts over time.

 

Unintentionally, the temple also boosts the local economy. On big festival days, visitors stream in; community stalls become lively—local dishes, Thai desserts, seasonal fruits, woven crafts, and local clothing. Circulating income helps younger generations value their roots. Many stay in their hometowns, extending local wisdom alongside modern skills.

 

To prepare well, visitors should dress modestly and avoid flashy or tight outfits. Bring an umbrella or raincoat in the rainy season; in the hot season, a hat and a personal water bottle are helpful. Silence phones and speak softly. If bringing children, teach basic temple etiquette—how to bow, to walk slowly, and not to run around near the stupa. Small things like these keep the overall atmosphere calm, beautiful, and mutually respectful.

 

Beyond devotion, the temple is also pleasant in landscape terms. It lies not far from Klaeng’s main route, making cultural-day itineraries easy: pay respects to Luang Pu in the morning, then sample seasonal fruits at local orchards, or head to nearby coasts for a sunset view. Blending a “route of faith” with a “route of nature” balances stillness and freshness in a full day in Rayong.

 

Returning to the place’s core, some may think “sacredness” is elusive. At Wat Wang Wa, it often appears in ordinary ways—laywomen quietly picking fallen flowers, chairs placed just right for elders, water prepared for travelers, or a young monk politely guiding visitors. These little things add up to a gentle atmosphere that invites our hearts to soften. Faith isn’t grand; it’s meeting “everyday goodness” again and again until the heart consents.

 

Luang Pu Khram passed away on December 1, 1997 (BE 2540), at the age of 100 (80 rains-retreats). After dignified funeral rites, his body was enshrined in a stupa at the temple for close homage ever since. The enduring beauty of the annual anniversary ceremonies reflects unwavering faith. More importantly, disciples across generations continue to apply his teachings—caring for family, honesty in work, and guarding the heart against the world’s haste.

 

As visitors step out of Wat Wang Wa, many turn back to look quietly at the stupa, as if to imprint the scene—not just the architecture, but the calm unfurling within. A visit here is not only a trip to “see,” but a journey to “hear” the heart’s quiet voice. That may be the true gift this place offers to everyone who passes through.

 

Getting There You can come by private car or public transport. From Rayong city, take Highway 3 (Sukhumvit Road) toward Klaeng—about 65 km—then turn into Wang Wa Subdistrict following clear signs along the way. Once in the community, the temple is not far from the main road. From Bangkok, use the Bangkok–Rayong motorway and connect to Sukhumvit; travel time is roughly 2.5–3 hours, depending on traffic and departure time.

 

If using public transport, vans and buses run from Ekkamai Bus Terminal to Rayong/Klaeng. Get off at Klaeng Market, then take a motorcycle taxi or local cab to the temple—the final leg is about 8 km. Signs are clear and roads are good year-round. For overnight stays, community lodgings within 3 km offer quiet, simple, friendly atmospheres—ideal if you wish to spend more time with the temple, such as morning meditation and evening walks in the Dhamma garden before leaving the next day.

 

 

A: It is a key temple in the East and in Rayong because it was the residence and enshrined body of Phra Mongkhon Silachan (Luang Pu Khram Yosotharo), revered as the “Deity of the East.”

 

A: The stupa enshrining Luang Pu’s body is the main spot. There are also multi-purpose pavilions, open-air practice areas, and many quiet corners for meditation.

 

A: Dress modestly, keep voices low, silence phones, assist elders, and guide children to respect the sacred area.

 

A: Candlelight processions on Makha, Visakha, and Asalha Bucha, and the memorial event for Luang Pu on December 1 each year.

 

A: Very much so. It is quiet and shaded, with spaces to sit, walk meditation, and cultivate mindfulness.

 

A: Take a van/bus from Ekkamai to Klaeng/Rayong, get off at Klaeng Market, then continue by motorcycle taxi or local cab to the temple (about 8 km).

 

A: Early morning and late afternoon offer cooler weather and fewer crowds—great for quiet practice and leisurely walks.

 

A: Yes. The temple welcomes all ages. Bringing children to offer alms, listen to Dhamma, and learn temple etiquette is a wonderful way to cultivate virtue.