Wat Thippawas

Wat Thippawas is a private Buddhist temple affiliated with the Dhammayutika Nikaya sect, located in Lam Pla Thio Subdistrict, Lat Krabang District, Bangkok. The temple covers an area of 20 rai (approximately 32,000 square meters), surrounded by natural landscapes and waterways. The boundaries of the temple are as follows: North: Adjacent to monastic land. East: Adjacent to the canal beside Wat Thippawas. South: Adjacent to Chalong Krung Soi 53. West: Adjacent to Lam Kor Phai Canal. Additionally, the temple owns a 36-rai 92-square-wa plot of monastic land, used for public benefit and Buddhist activities.

 

Wat Thippawas was established in 1886 (B.E. 2429), though the identity of its founder remains unknown. Locals have historically referred to the temple as Wat Lam Kor Phai due to the large bamboo grove visible from the Lam Kor Phai Canal. Another common name is Wat Ton Sai, inspired by a prominent banyan tree within the temple grounds that was a distinctive landmark.

 

The temple received its royal charter for consecration (Wisungkhama Sima) on April 4, 1889 (B.E. 2432), cementing its status as a significant religious site for the surrounding community.

 

Since 1947 (B.E. 2490), Wat Thippawas has served as a center for Buddhist studies, offering education in Pali scripture and Buddhist teachings to monks and novices. The temple also supports community development by allocating 2 rai (3,200 square meters) of land for the construction of a primary school and 1 rai (1,600 square meters) for a public health station.

 

Architectural Highlights Wat Thippawas features several important structures, including:

- Ordination Hall (Ubosot): Measuring 9.60 meters wide and 16.50 meters long, the hall is built in a traditional Thai architectural style, with teakwood used extensively in its construction, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.

Monastic Residences: Eight monk residences (kuti), a prayer hall, and a sermon hall (sala kanprian) support both religious ceremonies and community activities.

 

The area surrounding Wat Thippawas is home to a significant Mon population. Historical records suggest the Mon community migrated to Thailand during the era of Chao Phraya Maha Yotha (Jeng Kotchaseni). Initially settling in Phra Pradaeng (Samut Prakan Province), some Mon families later moved to the Lat Krabang area.

 

The Mon community continues to preserve its rich cultural heritage, most notably through the celebration of Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year. Every year, Wat Thippawas hosts a Mon-style Songkran festival, featuring traditional activities such as almsgiving, water blessings for monks, and saba, a traditional Mon game that reflects the community's unique cultural identity.

 

The abbots of Wat Thippawas have contributed significantly to the preservation of Buddhism and the temple’s development. Notable abbots include: Phra Ajahn Lui, Phra Ajahn Yu Tikkhanyano, Phra Ajahn Mi, Phra Khru Chakkra Thanapalo, Phra Khru Thaworn Thammavong, Phra Wachirawutcharan Wisit (Khluap Thammatecho).

 

Wat Thippawas is not merely a religious site; it is a vibrant cultural and educational hub that fosters the community's well-being. It plays an essential role in preserving the traditions of the Mon people and supporting the surrounding area's social development. With its deep historical roots, cultural significance, and contributions to society, Wat Thippawas remains a treasured landmark in Lat Krabang District.