Wat Tan Lom

Wat Tan Lom is a private Buddhist temple under the Mahanikaya sect, located in Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang Chonburi District, Chonburi Province. It has a long and meaningful history, serving as both a spiritual sanctuary and a cultural landmark for the local community.

 

The temple was originally called Wat Narong Chomsuwan, named after Khun Narong Chomsuwan, the headman of Bang Sai Subdistrict at the time. In 1874 (B.E. 2417), Khun Narong donated 31 rai, 2 ngan, and 32 square wah of land for the construction of the temple. That same year, it received official permission to be established as a temple. Later, on January 1, 1976 (B.E. 2519), Wat Tan Lom was granted Wisungkhamsima, or consecrated boundary for the ordination hall, covering an area 40 meters wide and 60 meters long.

 

Over time, the temple was relocated to a new site directly across from its original location, which was also part of Khun Narong’s donated land. The new site was surrounded by sugar palm trees, leading locals to call it “Wat Tan Lom,” which translates to “the temple surrounded by palm trees.” The name reflects both the natural environment and the lifestyle of the community in earlier times when sugar palms played a vital role in daily life, from food production to cultural practices.

 

One of the most important historical structures within the temple is the ancient ordination hall (Ubosot), which has been officially registered as a historical site. It was announced in the Royal Gazette on March 27, 1998 (B.E. 2541), covering an area of approximately 3 rai, 2 ngan, and 20.5 square wah. The ordination hall is constructed with brick and mortar in a rectangular layout. Its roof features a traditional gable style made of wood and covered with sharp-tipped clay tiles. The eaves are extended with a distinctive “winged” design. The front and rear gables are beautifully decorated with stucco carvings of Chinese-style swans, surrounded by intricate floral scroll patterns, showcasing the artistic fusion of Thai and Chinese influences during that period.

 

Inside the ordination hall sits the principal Buddha image in the Maravijaya posture, symbolizing the Buddha’s victory over Mara. This stucco image is covered in gold leaf and placed on a tiered base, flanked by two disciples representing spiritual wisdom and devotion. A standing Buddha image in royal attire is also housed inside, reflecting the stylistic influence of royal court art and the community’s deep reverence for Buddhism. The walls are adorned with murals depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life, painted by local artisans. These murals are not only religiously significant but also offer a glimpse into the region’s artistic heritage and storytelling traditions.

 

Surrounding the ordination hall are two ancient pagodas, built in the “twelve indented corners” architectural style. Over time, parts of the bases have sunk into the ground. The main body of the pagodas is decorated with elaborate stucco designs resembling ornamental necklaces (Sai Sangwan). The upper sections are designed with a square base that supports lotus motifs, though some of the uppermost parts have been damaged or lost through the passage of time. Despite this, the remaining structures still exude elegance and showcase the architectural mastery of their era.

 

Today, Wat Tan Lom remains a vibrant center for religious and cultural activities. The temple hosts major Buddhist ceremonies, including merit-making events and candlelight processions on significant religious holidays. It also plays a role in cultural preservation, with the local community working hand-in-hand with the temple to maintain and restore its historic structures and artifacts.

 

Visiting Wat Tan Lom offers more than just a chance to make merit. It provides a journey into the history, art, and traditions of Chonburi Province. Visitors can explore its ancient architecture, admire its sacred relics, and gain insight into the spiritual life of the community. To respect the temple’s sanctity, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and follow temple guidelines during their visit.

 

With its rich history and enduring cultural value, Wat Tan Lom stands as both a sacred religious site and a living museum of heritage. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the spiritual depth and artistic legacy of Chonburi.