Wat Tha Rong Tawan Ok is an ancient temple of historical and religious significance, located at No. 66, Ban Tha Rong Tawan Ok, Moo 2, Wat Phrik Subdistrict, Mueang Phitsanulok District, Phitsanulok Province. The temple belongs to the Mahanikaya sect of Thai Buddhism and occupies an area of about 12 rai and 3 ngan. The temple grounds lie on a low plain along the eastern bank of the Nan River, creating a fertile and serene environment that is highly suitable for Buddhist practices and religious activities. Its boundaries are clearly defined, with a school to the north, a public road to the south, private land to the east, and the Nan River to the west.

 

The temple compound houses several important structures. The ordination hall (ubosot), built in 1957, measures 7 meters in width and 12 meters in length and serves as the site for Buddhist monastic rituals. The sermon hall (sala kan parian), constructed in 1978, is a wooden structure measuring 14 meters wide and 24 meters long, used for religious instruction, meetings, and ceremonies. A wooden prayer hall (ho suat mon), built in 1964, is 8 meters wide and 16 meters long, serving as a space for chanting and other religious practices. In addition, there are three monks’ residences (kutis), also wooden, providing accommodation for the resident monks.

 

Inside the ubosot is the principal Buddha image of the temple, a stucco statue known as “Luang Pho Khao,” with a lap width of 5 sok (approximately 2.5 meters). This revered Buddha image has long been an object of faith and devotion for the local community. In the sermon hall stands another principal Buddha image with a lap width of 12 inches, donated in 1982 by Mr. Arun Phakpraiphai, which reflects the strong involvement of the community in supporting and preserving Buddhism.

 

The history of Wat Tha Rong Tawan Ok dates back to around 1857. Originally, it was an abandoned temple known as “Wat Tha Rong Tawan Khun.” After being restored, it was later renamed “Wat Tha Rong Tawan Ok.” The temple was granted its boundary of consecrated land (wisungkhamsima) on March 18, 1987, covering an area 40 meters wide and 80 meters long, signifying its recognition as a legitimate center for Buddhist ordination and ceremonies.

 

Over the years, the temple has been under the care of six abbots: Phra Thian, Phra Ajarn Dod, Phra Sot, Phra Nam, Phra Chat, and Phra Akarnbo Sumano, who has served since 1972. Each abbot has contributed to the temple’s preservation and development, ensuring the continuity of religious practices and community activities.

 

Wat Tha Rong Tawan Ok represents not only a sacred space for spiritual practice but also a cultural landmark of Phitsanulok. The temple’s riverside setting and simple yet serene atmosphere continue to attract worshippers and visitors seeking peace and blessings. It also serves as a testament to the devotion and cooperation of the local community in preserving their religious and cultural heritage through generations.