Rating: 3.4/5 (20 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 17.00

 

Wat Pom is located in the municipal area of Phetchaburi Province. It is a local Buddhist temple with a long history dating back to 1587 (B.E. 2130). Although there is no clear historical record identifying the founder, historical information and community oral traditions indicate that the temple has continuously served as a religious and spiritual center for local residents for several centuries.

 

The boundaries of Wat Pom are clearly defined. To the north, it borders Thahin Road; to the south, Khlong Wat Ko Canal; and to the east and west, public roads. The temple has monastic land consisting of 2 plots with a total area of approximately 29 rai. This extensive area reflects the long-standing importance of the temple as a central institution within the urban community of Phetchaburi since the past.

 

In earlier periods, Wat Pom fell into a state of deterioration due to the passage of time. A major restoration was later undertaken by Phra Khru Phiphitthakhunakon, with strong support from local residents. This restoration brought the temple back into good condition, enabling it once again to fully function as a center for religious activities and community life.

 

The temple’s monastic buildings include an ordination hall measuring approximately 6 meters in width and 20 meters in length, and an assembly hall measuring about 10 meters in width and 27 meters in length, constructed as a Thai-style reinforced concrete building. The chanting hall, built in 1995, is a raised Thai-style structure. There are 5 wooden monks’ residences, as well as a multipurpose pavilion built in 1977, two reinforced-concrete funeral pavilions, and supporting facilities such as a kitchen and restrooms to accommodate monks and lay visitors.

 

Sacred objects within the temple include Buddha images of various sizes and an ancient stupa, which symbolize devotion and the continuity of Buddhism in the area. Wat Pom is therefore not only a place for religious ceremonies but also a site that preserves the cultural heritage of the Phetchaburi urban community.

 

In terms of administration and governance, Wat Pom has had a succession of abbots whose names are recorded as follows: Phra Athikan Tun, Phra Athikan Chit, Phra Athikan Chim, and Phra Khru Sangwon Watcharakhun (Im), who served from 1955 to 1993. The current abbot is Phra Khru Phiphitthakhunakon, who has held the position since 1987 and has played a key role in the temple’s development and its connection with the local community.

 

Regarding education, Wat Pom established a Buddhist Scripture School (Dhamma Division) in 1983 to promote the study of Buddhist doctrine and discipline. This institution provides a strong religious foundation for monks and novices and represents an important role of the temple in systematically sustaining Buddhism.

 

Getting There Wat Pom is easily accessible from Phetchaburi town, as it is bordered by public roads on several sides. It is well suited for travel by private vehicle, and visitors can conveniently combine a visit to the temple with other important attractions within the city on the same route.

 

 

A: Wat Pom was founded in 1587 (B.E. 2130).

 

A: There is no clear historical record identifying the founder.

 

A: It serves as a religious, educational, and community center of Phetchaburi.

 

A: The current abbot is Phra Khru Phiphitthakhunakon.

 

A: Yes. The temple is located within the city and bordered by public roads, making access convenient.