Wat Phipat Mongkhon is located at No. 464, Moo 9, Ban Tha Chum, Thung Saliam Subdistrict, Thung Saliam District, Sukhothai Province. The temple is under the Mahanikaya order of Thai Theravada Buddhism and sits approximately 3 kilometers from the Thung Saliam District Office. It is one of the most significant temples in Sukhothai, established on the grounds of a former abandoned temple in the middle of Ban Tha Chum’s fields.

 

The temple complex comprises a variety of religious buildings and facilities, including a Rattanabophit-style ubosot (ordination hall), a gold-decorated Phutthawihan (Buddha hall), stupas, the Suwan Ho Kham Luang building, monk residences, a sermon hall, a Dhamma training pavilion, a multipurpose hall, a Pali learning center, satellite pavilions, a kitchen, a miniature Buddha mandapa, and a meditation garden dedicated in honor of the monarchy. Within the temple grounds, numerous Sukhothai-era Buddha images and the revered Phra Phuttha Rattanamanee were discovered during construction. Additionally, sacred relics brought from Sri Lanka are enshrined here, adding spiritual significance and historical value.

 

Originally, the site of Wat Phipat Mongkhon was overgrown and abandoned, with remnants of a stupa base, ordination hall foundation, and other artifacts found within ancient reliquaries. Archaeological evidence suggests it was once a royal monastery, likely built during the Wiang Mok period around 1129 CE, making the site approximately 881 years old. The current abbot, Phra Kru Worakhun Prayut, happened to rest at this location while on a Buddhist ascetic pilgrimage and initiated the restoration and reconstruction of the temple.

 

The temple was officially named “Wat Phipat Mongkhon” on January 17, 1985. Later, on June 28, 2005, a Royal Decree granted the temple the Wisungkhamasima, formally recognizing its sacred boundary of 7 meters in width and 35 meters in length. The decree was executed with the support of Mr. Chaturon Chaisang, then Deputy Prime Minister, and published in the Royal Gazette, Volume 22, Part 66 Ng. These milestones formally established Wat Phipat Mongkhon as a recognized center of Buddhist practice and heritage in the region.

 

Beyond its religious significance, Wat Phipat Mongkhon plays an essential role in the local community, culture, and education. Under the guidance of the abbot, the temple facilitates Dhamma training, Pali studies, and preservation of ancient artifacts, encouraging community engagement in religious and cultural activities. The meditation garden provides a serene environment for practitioners of all ages, promoting mindfulness, meditation, and the study of Buddhist teachings in harmony with nature.

 

Wat Phipat Mongkhon exemplifies the restoration of a historic temple into a thriving center of Buddhist culture, integrating ancient heritage with modern practices. Its historical significance, evidenced by the discovery of Buddha images and ancient artifacts, attracts both devotees and cultural tourists who seek to experience Thailand’s rich spiritual and artistic legacy. The temple’s thoughtful design, including diverse religious buildings and a meditation space, meets the needs of both monastic education and community participation.

 

Today, Wat Phipat Mongkhon is not only a place for religious ceremonies but also a destination for cultural tourism and historical learning. Its proximity to the Thung Saliam District—just 3 kilometers away—makes it easily accessible for visitors interested in exploring Sukhothai’s Buddhist heritage. Visitors can observe sacred artifacts, participate in meditation and Dhamma training, and immerse themselves in the temple’s serene atmosphere.

 

Wat Phipat Mongkhon remains a central pillar of Sukhothai’s religious and cultural identity. Its significance arises not only from its ancient architecture and sacred artifacts but also from the continuous efforts of the abbot and local community to sustain the temple as a living center of faith, culture, and education. The temple provides a unique opportunity for both locals and international visitors to connect with Thailand’s historical and spiritual heritage, experience meditation, and appreciate centuries-old Buddhist art and architecture. Its blend of historical authenticity and contemporary religious practice makes it a must-visit site for anyone seeking to understand the depth of Thai culture and Buddhism in Sukhothai.