Wat Phai Lom is a third-class royal monastery under the Maha Nikaya sect, located at No. 17, Moo 6, Chanthanimit Subdistrict, Mueang Chanthaburi District, Chanthaburi Province. The temple covers an area of more than 45 rai along the Chanthaburi River. It is regarded as one of the most important temples in the province, rich in history, art, and religious devotion that has been cherished by the local community for centuries.

 

The temple was originally founded in 1777 (B.E. 2320) and received royal consecration of its boundary (Wisungkhamsima) in 1782 (B.E. 2325). Historical evidence suggests that Wat Phai Lom dates back to the late Ayutthaya period. Later, in 1996 (B.E. 2539), the temple was elevated by royal command to the status of a third-class royal monastery. This distinction stands as a great honor for both the temple and the people of Chanthaburi who have helped preserve it as a center of Buddhism and cultural heritage.

 

One of the highlights of Wat Phai Lom is its ancient structures and artistic treasures. The old ordination hall (ubosot), though its original date of construction is unknown, was restored during the reign of King Rama III. The hall is surrounded by a boundary wall (kampaeng kaeo) on all four sides, with entrances on each side. At the rear, there is a cloister supported by five pillars without lotus-bud finials, while the building itself sits on a straight base. Within the boundary wall lies a small twelve-cornered pagoda. The ubosot also preserves exquisite mural paintings depicting bonsai-like trees, Chinese-style floral motifs, the Ten Jataka Tales, and the life of the Buddha. The style of painting suggests it was created after the reign of King Rama III, as numerous foreign figures appear in the artwork.

 

Equally remarkable is the vihara that enshrines the largest reclining Buddha image in Eastern Thailand. This monumental figure is a stucco sculpture covered in gold leaf, created in the Rattanakosin style. It measures 32.49 meters in width across the lap and 54.19 meters in length. The reclining Buddha was built in 1976 (B.E. 2519) under the direction of Mr. Manas Klin-kachorn from the Fine Arts Department. Today, it serves as a spiritual landmark and a place of deep reverence for both local devotees and visiting pilgrims.

 

Other structures within the temple compound are also notable, such as the monks’ residences and sermon halls, beautifully adorned with intricate gingerbread-style wood carvings. These architectural details reflect the craftsmanship and artistry of the past, adding to the temple’s cultural value.

 

Over the years, Wat Phai Lom has played a significant role not only in religion but also in education and cultural development. It was recognized as a model temple in 1966 (B.E. 2509) and again in 1971 (B.E. 2514), later receiving further distinction as an outstanding model temple in 1967 (B.E. 2510). In 1996 (B.E. 2539), it was officially designated as a royal monastery, and in 2008 (B.E. 2551), it was appointed as the 6th provincial Dhamma practice center of Chanthaburi, further affirming its importance at both provincial and national levels.

 

The temple’s lineage of abbots includes Phra Athikan Ahn, Phra Upachaya Pheng, Phra Upachaya Miang, Phra Khru Phisan Thammakhun, Phra Khru Inthakachan, Phra Khru Prasit Thammanat, and Phra Thammavongmuni (Vichai Mettiko), who also served as the provincial monastic chief. The current abbot, Phra Attamoli (holder of Pali Studies, Level 7), has led the temple since 2014 (B.E. 2557).

 

Wat Phai Lom is located only about 500 meters from KP Grand Hotel, making it highly accessible for both tourists and worshippers. A visit here not only offers a tranquil atmosphere for paying respect and engaging in Buddhist practice but also provides insight into centuries of history, art, and culture preserved within its grounds. As a spiritual and cultural landmark of Chanthaburi, Wat Phai Lom is truly a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the province and seeking to experience Thailand’s enduring heritage.