Wat Ratchakosa

Wat Ratchakosa, located at 154 Moo 1, Luang Paeng, Thap Yao Subdistrict, Lat Krabang District, Bangkok 10520, is a local temple affiliated with the Mahanikaya sect of Thai Buddhism. The temple holds significant historical and artistic value and has served as a spiritual center for the community for over a century. The temple occupies approximately 17 rai of land, with the sacred boundary (Throne of the Sangha) covering more than 7 rai. To the north, it borders the Pravet Burirom Canal, and to the east, it faces Khum Thong–Lam Toiting Road, making it easily accessible from both inside and outside Lat Krabang.

 

The history of Wat Ratchakosa began in 1903 (B.E. 2446) when Phraya Phetpichai and Chao Chom Linchee of King Rama V’s reign, along with Chaophraya Surabodin Surintralaichai, donated a total of 17 rai, 3 ngan, and 44 square wah of land to build the temple. The purpose was to provide a place for the local community to practice Buddhism and perform religious activities. The temple was completed in 1907 (B.E. 2450) and was initially named "Wat Phraya Phetpichai," after its founder.

 

Later, when Phraya Phetpichai was elevated to the rank of Phraya Ratchakosa during the tenure of Phra Ajarn Im as abbot, the temple was renamed "Wat Ratchakosa" to reflect his new noble title and to honor the founder’s prestige.

 

Wat Ratchakosa played an important role in the history of the Surabodin and Phraya Phetpichai families. Later, Khun Yai Phat Jaruchinda, the daughter of Chaophraya Surabodin and granddaughter of Phraya Phetpichai, along with Khun Ying Oun, visited the temple while searching for a temple associated with their ancestors. After speaking with Phra Khru Manit Thammakhun, the current abbot, they learned about their families’ contributions to the temple’s upkeep. Both committed to supporting the renovation and maintenance of the temple to ensure its continuity.

 

Wat Ratchakosa was officially granted its ecclesiastical boundary (Wisungkhamasima) on June 15, 1923 (B.E. 2466), formally recognizing the temple’s sacred area under Thai law. The temple also held the Phutthasima boundary-tying ceremony in 1956 (B.E. 2499) to sanctify the ordination hall and monastic areas.

 

The temple features a prominent ordination hall housing the main Buddha image, Luang Pho Dam, in the Mara Vichaya posture, enshrined within a decorated glass pavilion with intricate floral motifs, resembling Phra Buddha Chinnarat. Cast in bronze, Luang Pho Dam is revered by the local community, and amulets featuring his image have been produced since around 1917 (B.E. 2460), with subsequent generations of sacred items created to foster devotion.

 

Several abbots have presided over Wat Ratchakosa, including Phra Ajarn Phueak, Phra Ajarn Im, Phra Ajarn Chuen, Phra Ajarn Phit, Phra Ajarn Nu Chuea Ao, Phra Ajarn Tuan Tisanasaro, Phra Athikan Sawat Tinnapongko, Phra Khru Manit Thammakhun (Manop Chuea Ao), and Phra Khru Prasut Saratham (Phra Ajarn Dam), who is the current abbot, leading the temple in both religious and social development.

 

Wat Ratchakosa is not only a place for religious ceremonies but also serves as a learning center for the history and culture of the Lat Krabang community. Regular Buddhist activities are held, including chanting, sermons, annual merit-making ceremonies, and the preservation of Thai traditions, making the temple a spiritual hub for locals and devotees.

 

Architecturally, Wat Ratchakosa is distinctive, featuring elegant ordination halls, viharns, and glass pavilions housing Luang Pho Dam. The temple grounds are shaded by trees and include tranquil areas for relaxation and meditation, providing visitors with a serene environment.

 

Wat Ratchakosa is one of Lat Krabang’s significant temples, worthy of a visit for its historical, artistic, and spiritual value. Visitors can learn about the Phraya Phetpichai family’s contributions, pay respects to the sacred Luang Pho Dam Buddha image, and participate in the temple’s ongoing religious activities.