Wat Khok Khi Non

Wat Khok Khi Non is located in Khok Khi Non Subdistrict, Phan Thong District, Chonburi Province. It is an ancient temple with a history of more than 200 years, founded around 1912 (B.E. 2455). According to the accounts of local elders, the temple was initially established when Mr. Bua and Mrs. Wan donated approximately 7 rai of land for its construction. Later, the temple purchased additional land, expanding its total area to 15 rai, 3 ngan, and 50 square wah. In addition, there are two plots of temple land (throne land) totaling 35 rai. The temple has long served as the spiritual center of the local community in Khok Khi Non and surrounding areas.

 

The name of the temple comes from the natural features of the area. “Khok” means a small hill, and the area once had many trees known locally as “Khi Non trees” growing on the hill, giving rise to the name Khok Khi Non. Over time, the temple gradually developed, both in terms of its buildings and religious activities. The ordination hall (ubosot) was built in 1950 (B.E. 2493) as a reinforced concrete structure measuring 6 meters wide and 10 meters long, serving as the main location for important Buddhist ceremonies. The sermon hall (sala kan parian) is a Thai-style reinforced concrete building, 14 meters wide and 30 meters long, used for teaching Dhamma and holding community events. There are nine monk residences (kutis), as well as a multipurpose pavilion built in 1986 (B.E. 2529), which is 6 meters wide and 26 meters long. Additionally, a primary and secondary school is located on approximately 10 rai of land within the temple grounds, providing education for local youth.

 

In 1916 (B.E. 2459), Wat Khok Khi Non was officially granted royal consecration boundaries (Wisungkhamsima), with a boundary area measuring 30 meters wide and 60 meters long. This marked an important milestone, officially recognizing the temple’s religious status and allowing it to conduct formal Buddhist rituals. Throughout its history, the temple has had several abbots. The first known abbot was Phra Suk, followed by Phra Ngern, Phra Bai, and Phra Yom. The current abbot, Phra Khru Udom Wisutthikhun (Rhum Jitnako), has served since 1956 (B.E. 2499). Each abbot has played a vital role in guiding the temple and community, strengthening its role as a spiritual hub.

 

Education has always been a priority for the temple. In 1952 (B.E. 2495), it opened a monastic school teaching Buddhist scriptures (Pariyatti Dhamma School) for monks, novices, and laypeople. Later, in 1989 (B.E. 2532), the temple established an early childhood development center to provide care and education for young children in the community. These efforts reflect the temple’s role not only as a place of worship but also as a center for learning and social development.

 

Wat Khok Khi Non has long been closely connected with its surrounding community. It serves as the venue for various Buddhist ceremonies and traditional events, such as ordination ceremonies, kathin and pha pa robe offering festivals, and celebrations on major Buddhist holidays like Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, and Asalha Bucha Day. These events bring the community together, fostering a strong sense of unity and shared faith.

 

The temple’s development has also been supported by the late Phra Wisutthathibodi (Phra Maha Sawai Jitwiro), former abbot of Wat Traimitr Withayaram in Bangkok. His contributions helped improve the temple’s facilities and promote its religious and educational missions.

 

Today, Wat Khok Khi Non is also a cultural tourism destination for visitors interested in exploring local traditions and ways of life in Phan Thong District, Chonburi. Its Thai-style architecture, particularly the ubosot and sermon hall, reflects traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The temple is also a place for meditation and spiritual practice, making it ideal for those seeking peace and inner reflection.

 

Getting to the temple is convenient, as it is located not far from Phan Thong town and is easily accessible from both Bangkok and Chonburi city. Visitors can experience the serene rural atmosphere, participate in merit-making activities, listen to Dhamma teachings, and learn about the area’s history all in one visit.

 

Wat Khok Khi Non is not only a place of religious significance but also a vital institution for preserving and passing down local culture. Through its continuous activities and community engagement, the temple represents a harmonious balance between physical development and the preservation of traditional Thai values. It remains a sanctuary of faith, knowledge, and tranquility, deeply rooted in both Buddhism and local heritage.