Wat Chongkho

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00

 

Wat Chongkho is located in Moo 6, Wang Chan Subdistrict, Wang Chan District, Rayong Province. It is an ancient temple estimated to be around 200 years old and serves as a spiritual and cultural center for the local community. The temple lies along the Ban Bueng – Klaeng Highway (Route 344), making it easily accessible from both Chonburi and Rayong. The grounds are shaded by large trees, including the blooming chongkho (Bauhinia) trees that gave the temple its name. When in full bloom, their soft pinkish-purple flowers color the entire area beautifully.

 

The sacred image of the temple is Luangpho Phikunthong, an ancient Buddha image revered by villagers for centuries. Estimated to be around 200 years old, it is enshrined inside the ordination hall and serves as a spiritual anchor for the people of Wang Chan and travelers passing through. Locals believe the image possesses benevolence and grants protection to the faithful.

 

The temple’s architecture preserves the characteristics of traditional eastern Thai temples. The ordination hall is modest in size, featuring a two-tiered gable roof and stucco decorations of dok phikun and chongkho motifs on the pediment—symbolically linked to both the image and the temple’s name. Surrounding the area are old chedis, wooden monk dwellings, and a Dharma pavilion, all of which reflect the humble yet artfully significant craftsmanship of early Rattanakosin-period rural temples.

 

Getting There – To reach Wat Chongkho, take Highway 344 (Ban Bueng – Klaeng). Upon arriving in Wang Chan District, look for the sign directing you to Moo 6, where the temple is located. From Rayong city, the journey takes about one hour. Visitors from Bangkok can take Motorway Route 7 to Chonburi, then continue along Highway 344 toward Wang Chan. The temple provides spacious parking and is easily accessible by private car.

 

 

A: Wat Chongkho is in Moo 6, Wang Chan Subdistrict, Wang Chan District, Rayong Province, along Highway 344 (Ban Bueng – Klaeng). It is easily accessible from both Rayong and Chonburi.

 

A: Luangpho Phikunthong is an ancient Buddha image believed to be over 200 years old. Locals regard it as highly sacred and believe it brings blessings and protection to devotees.

 

A: The temple is estimated to be around 200 years old, dating back to the early Rattanakosin period, built by villagers as a communal place of faith and merit-making.

 

A: Highlights include the old ordination hall decorated with stucco floral motifs, Bauhinia trees surrounding the temple, and an ancient chedi showcasing traditional eastern Thai art.

 

A: From Rayong city, the trip takes about one hour via Highway 344. From Bangkok, take Motorway Route 7 to Chonburi, then continue on the Ban Bueng – Klaeng Highway toward Wang Chan District.