Wat Phikun Sokhan

Rating: 3.6/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wat Phikun Sokhan is located in Moo 2, Ban Khlang, Phra Khao Subdistrict, Bang Ban District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. It is a local temple under the Mahanikaya order with a long history dating back to the Ayutthaya period. The temple is an ancient community temple that has continuously played an important role in the lives and beliefs of the people of Ban Khlang and Phra Khao Subdistrict, serving as a religious site, a spiritual center, and a place for important community rituals.

 

According to historical records, Wat Phikun Sokhan was established around 2245 BE during the Ayutthaya period and was officially granted Wisungkhamsima in 2454 BE. This reflects the temple’s continuous existence through several historical eras, from the late Ayutthaya period through social and community changes, and into the present day as an active community temple.

 

The temple occupies an area of approximately 19 rai, 3 ngan, and 40 square wah, making it a relatively spacious community temple. The temple grounds include essential religious structures designed for practical use, such as a brick-and-mortar ubosot, a sermon hall measuring about 10 meters wide and 15 meters long, and a chanting hall. These structures reflect the traditional design of community temples in Thailand’s central plains, emphasizing simplicity and functionality rather than grandeur.

 

The most important sacred object that makes Wat Phikun Sokhan widely known among local residents is the reclining Buddha image enshrined inside the viharn. Locally known as “Luang Pho Sokhan,” this reclining Buddha measures approximately 21 wa in length, making it one of the most prominent reclining Buddha images in Bang Ban District. It has long served as the spiritual focal point of the local community.

 

Luang Pho Sokhan is not merely a physical sacred object but a profound spiritual symbol for the local people. Villagers commonly visit to pay respects and pray for peace, calmness, and blessings in their lives, especially during times of uncertainty or when seeking encouragement. Paying homage to this large reclining Buddha in the calm atmosphere of a community temple offers visitors a deeply simple yet meaningful spiritual experience.

 

In addition to Luang Pho Sokhan, the temple also houses a statue of Luang Pho Pan, a revered monk who is deeply respected by the local community and closely connected to the temple’s history. This statue is another important site of worship, often visited alongside the reclining Buddha, reflecting the continuity of faith and reverence passed down through generations.

 

In terms of its social role, Wat Phikun Sokhan continues to function as a center for religious activities and traditional ceremonies within the community. Merit-making events commonly held at community temples include Kathin ceremonies, Pha Pa ceremonies, and observances on important Buddhist holy days, as well as various community rituals. Although these events are not organized on a large tourist-oriented scale, they clearly demonstrate the strong relationship between the temple and the local community.

 

The overall atmosphere of Wat Phikun Sokhan is calm, simple, and welcoming, making it ideal for visitors seeking merit-making, worship, or quiet reflection. Located outside Ayutthaya Island, the temple allows visitors to experience another side of Ayutthaya through the lens of rural community life, where traditional ways of life and long-held beliefs are still well preserved.

 

Getting There Traveling to Wat Phikun Sokhan is most convenient by private car. Visitors can use a navigation app and pin “Wat Phikun Sokhan, Bang Ban.” From Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya city, head toward Bang Ban District, then enter Phra Khao Subdistrict. The temple is located in Moo 2, Ban Khlang. The route is relatively straightforward, and visitors can plan a one-day trip combining several temples in Phra Khao Subdistrict.

 

Visitors are advised to dress modestly, respect the temple grounds, and avoid making loud noises during religious activities. If ceremonies or community events are taking place, visitors should follow the guidance of monks or the temple committee to ensure their visit remains appropriate and respectful of local customs.

 

 

A: It is located in Moo 2, Ban Khlang, Phra Khao Subdistrict, Bang Ban District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province.

 

A: Luang Pho Sokhan is a large reclining Buddha image enshrined in the viharn, measuring approximately 21 wa in length and serving as the spiritual center of the local community.

 

A: The temple was established around 2245 BE during the Ayutthaya period and was granted Wisungkhamsima in 2454 BE.

 

A: The highlights include the large reclining Buddha Luang Pho Sokhan, the statue of Luang Pho Pan, and the peaceful atmosphere of a traditional community temple.

 

A: Visitors can combine their visit with Wat Phra Khao, Wat Santikaram, and Bang Ban Market within a single day.