Wat Don Mun

Rating: 4.2/5 (5 votes)

Operating day: Daily

Operating time: 08.00 - 17.00

 

Wat Don Mun Na Tha Nung, Na Mun, Nan. Wat Don Mun was originally a small monk’s residence located at house number 21, Ban Khang Oi, Village No. 6, Na Thanung Subdistrict, Na Muen District, Nan Province. As the village area was vast and the local faith in Buddhism grew stronger, a change in village leadership eventually led to the separation of Ban Khang Oi into a new settlement. This area later became known as Ban Don Mun, which is currently designated as Village No. 14.

 

Wat Don Mun is supported by a shared religious faith among six surrounding villages. The temple was established in B.E. 2444 (1901) and was originally called Wat Khang Oi. It is affiliated with the Mahanikaya sect of Theravāda Buddhism and occupies an area of 1 rai, 2 ngan, and 76 square wah. The land is bordered by private property to the north, south, and west, and by an irrigation canal to the east.

 

Wat Don Mun is considered a historic temple within Na Muen District. Built in the Lanna architectural style, it has maintained its aesthetic beauty for over a century and continues to uphold traditional cultural values. It serves as a place of both religious significance and cultural tourism, attracting visitors who come to pay respect and experience its heritage. The temple is easily accessible due to its location along a main road in the district, making travel convenient for devotees and tourists alike.

 

The vihara of Wat Don Mun was constructed in B.E. 2457 (1914) by Luang Pu Thepwong Thepwongso, the abbot at that time, with the help of local villagers. Built with brick and mortar, the vihara features a wooden shingle roof known locally as "pan-klet," along with intricately carved wooden gables and column tops. The structure reflects the Eastern Lanna style and is over 100 years old. Its design closely follows that of the smaller vihara at Wat Na Wai, which served as the model for construction. The use of wooden shingles demonstrates local wisdom in building design, helping to protect the interior from heat.

 

The ancient kuti, or monastic residence, at Wat Don Mun was built in B.E. 2491 (1948), also under the leadership of Luang Pu Thepwong Thepwongso, with support from the villagers. The pillars are made of brick and mortar, while the floor, walls, and roof are constructed from wood. The kuti follows a traditional local design, with a roof covered in teak wood shingles. A distinctive feature of the structure is the joinery technique used between the columns and the floor, where grooves are cut into the mortar columns and fitted with wooden tenons. The roof’s wooden shingles are both functional and beautiful, showcasing the craftsmanship of local builders.