Wat Prachanat

Rating: 3.4/5 (7 votes)

Operating day: daily

Operating time: 08.00 - 17.00

 

Wat Prachanat Khun Kaeo, Nakhon Chai Si, Nakhon Pathom. Wat Prachanat is a Buddhist temple located in the Khun Kaew Subdistrict, Nakhon Chai Si District, Nakhon Pathom Province. It is a temple under the Maha Nikaya sect and has a long history, holding both religious and cultural significance, particularly concerning historical landmarks and its connection to the Phra Pathom Chedi.

 

History of Wat Prachanat Wat Prachanat was originally named Wat Tai Mueang and later changed to Wat Khok Khaek. It is believed that the area once housed a community of Muslims, commonly referred to by the Thai people as "Khaek" (a term used for Muslims in the region). The term "Khok" refers to the elevated land area that has been subject to erosion from the riverbank over time. The temple is mentioned as one of the four sites that protected the Phra Pathom Chedi, especially on the southern side, where it was called Wat Khok Khaek.

 

The temple is believed to have been built during the Ayutthaya period and was officially permitted to become a temple in 1830 (B.E. 2370). The temple was granted its official ecclesiastical boundary (visungkhamasima) in 1922 (B.E. 2465).

 

Inside Wat Prachanat, there are several significant historical structures, including the Bodhi Hall, Vihara, Bell Tower, Sala for Eating, Sermon Hall by the River, and the Stupa in the Prang Style. The stupa has a large circular base and is designed in the Ayutthaya style. There are stairs leading up to the base of the stupa, allowing visitors to walk around it, much like the Phra Prathon Chedi.

 

The stupa is located behind the original Ubo Thot (ordination hall), which follows the traditional architectural style. However, the original ordination hall is no longer standing, as it has been replaced by an asphalt road. The current ordination hall is positioned next to the stupa, facing the road. The Fine Arts Department registered the temple's historical sites on December 30, 1988, to preserve and recognize its cultural and historical value.

 

Abbots of Wat Prachanat Throughout the years, the temple has had several abbots who played key roles in overseeing the temple and community activities: Phra Athikarn Khun, Phra Suweth, Phra Athikarn Wong, Phra Kru Thawornsantikhun (Saman) and Phra Kru Chira Watthamm (Somporn Chiratthammo).

 

These abbots have contributed to the development and preservation of the temple, maintaining its historical sites and fostering religious activities within the local community.

 

In addition to its religious and historical significance, Wat Prachanat also hosts the long-boat racing tradition during the annual End of Buddhist Lent Festival. This festival, held every year on the day of the end of the Buddhist Lent, is one of the most significant events in the area. Teams from local communities participate in the long-boat races, competing for the prestigious Royal Trophy from Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The races are a vibrant and colorful tradition that celebrates both the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region.

 

Wat Prachanat is not only a place of religious and cultural importance, but it also serves as a vital site for preserving historical landmarks and traditional practices. The temple plays a significant role in maintaining local cultural heritage, including the preservation of architectural styles from the Ayutthaya period, and hosting the important long-boat racing festival. Visitors to Wat Prachanat are not only invited to experience the spiritual atmosphere but also to engage with the rich history and cultural traditions that have shaped the local community for centuries.