Wat Tha Ko Muang

Rating: 3.7/5 (7 votes)

Operating day: Daily

Operating time: 08.00 - 17.00

 

Wat Tha Ko Muang Nong Pla Sa Wai, Ban Hong, Lamphun. Wat Tha Ko Muang, affiliated with the Mahanikaya sect, occupies a land area of 12 rai, 1 ngan, and 37 square wah.

 

The temple's religious buildings include the ordination hall (vihara), sermon hall (sala), alms hall, monks' quarters (kutis), kitchen, drinking water station, rest area, and the important Phra Phuttharup (statue) called "Phra Phuttha Muang Kham."

 

Wat Tha Ko Muang was founded in 1971 (B.E. 2514) because, previously, the villagers of Tha Ko Muang had to travel to Wat Phutthanimit in Chongthong District, Chiang Mai, for religious observances. This involved crossing the Ping River, which was a difficult journey, especially during the rainy season when the river swelled, making travel even more challenging.

 

As a result, the villagers decided to build their own temple by purchasing land from residents to the east of the village. The construction started in 1971, led by Uai Nan Puang Lhakham, the temple's layman, and Mr. Dee Jin Tung, the village head at the time. They also created the "Phra Muang Kham" statue and the principal disciples' statues carved from mango wood from the Ping River.

 

The temple has had several abbots since its establishment. Phra Thawatchai Panyavaro served from 1971 to 1972, followed by Phra Kham Baen Panyaweso from 1973 to 1974, and Phra Sawang Dhammaitiko from 1975 to 1977. Phra Prasit Aphinnatho was the abbot from 1978 to 1986, and Phra Mon served at the temple, though the exact years and title are unclear. The current abbot is Phra Biddhi Kham Phrometh (Boon Teng) Chitpunyo, who has been serving since 1995.