Wat Khlong Ho Thong, located in Moo 6, Bang Toei Subdistrict, Ban Sang District, Prachinburi Province, is an old temple with long-standing importance in both religious and community life. It has served not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural landmark where local traditions and Buddhist practices converge. Set by a canal that gives the temple its name, the surrounding atmosphere is serene and shaded, making it a meaningful destination for both locals and visitors seeking spiritual retreat and cultural exploration.

 

The temple was established in 1920, originally known as Wat Bang Takok, situated at the mouth of Khlong Bang Takok, a small canal branching from Khlong Ho Thong. Later, the name was changed to Wat Khlong Ho Thong to reflect the surrounding geography. From its early years, the temple has been a center of local faith and has played a vital role in communal rituals and religious activities.

 

Wat Khlong Ho Thong occupies more than ten rai of land, with additional monastic land holdings covering over one hundred rai. The northern boundary meets Khlong Ho Thong, while the western edge meets Khlong Bang Takok. This location has always tied the temple closely to the water-based lifestyle of the local people. Over the years, the temple has been developed and expanded through the dedication of the community, which led to the construction of its important structures such as the ordination hall, preaching hall, and chanting pavilion. The temple was officially granted Wisungkhamsima, the consecrated boundary for its ordination hall, on June 24, 1998, confirming its full recognition as a Buddhist monastery under Thai law.

 

The temple has had several respected abbots throughout its history. One of the most revered was Phra Khru Panyapatthanakun, known as Luang Pho Sakorn Phuripanyo, a close disciple of the famous monk Luang Pho Chad of Wat Bang Krabao. Luang Pho Sakorn was widely admired for his spiritual charisma, meditative practice, and sacred amulets believed to hold protective powers. Today, the abbot of Wat Khlong Ho Thong is Phra Khru Wimonpanyanukit (Thawisak Techapanyo), who continues to oversee both religious functions and community development activities at the temple.

 

The temple contains several significant structures. Its ordination hall, built in 1982, is a reinforced concrete building in Thai style and houses the principal Buddha image. The preaching hall, built in 1990, is a large hall used for sermons, ceremonies, and community gatherings. The chanting pavilion, completed in 1978, is a traditional Thai wooden structure that remains one of the temple’s unique highlights. There are also monks’ residences, a funeral pavilion, and a small museum where ancient objects and local artifacts are displayed, providing insight into the history and daily life of the community.

 

Wat Khlong Ho Thong is also associated with stories of sacred power and long-standing traditions. Amulets created by Luang Pho Sakorn are still cherished by devotees, who believe in their power for loving-kindness, protection, and resilience. The temple’s spiritual lineage is also connected to Luang Pho Chad of Wat Bang Krabao, a legendary monk whose amulets were famously used by soldiers during the Indochina War. These beliefs and traditions continue to draw worshippers and collectors alike, strengthening the temple’s reputation as a place of both religious and cultural significance.

 

In addition to being a place of worship, the temple plays an active role in the local community. Annual festivals such as Kathin, Buddhist Lent, and the End of Buddhist Lent are celebrated here with strong participation from local residents. The temple also serves as a place of Buddhist education, offering Dhamma training for children and young people, and supporting various community service activities that foster unity.

 

Visitors to Wat Khlong Ho Thong will immediately notice its tranquil setting. Being close to the canal, the air is cool, especially in the early morning and late afternoon, making it an ideal time to visit for worship or quiet reflection. Large trees provide shade and peaceful corners for meditation or rest. The ordination hall and chanting pavilion offer excellent photo opportunities, retaining traditional Thai characteristics that make them stand out in a natural setting.

 

Traveling to Wat Khlong Ho Thong is convenient. By private car, one can drive from Bangkok along Rangsit–Nakhon Nayok Road (Highway 305) toward Ban Sang District in Prachinburi. Upon reaching Bang Toei Subdistrict, turning into Moo 6 will lead directly to the temple. Public transportation is also available by minibus or buses running from Bangkok to Ban Sang, with local transport or motorcycle taxis providing connections to the temple. Searching for “Wat Khlong Ho Thong, Prachinburi” on Google Maps will display the exact location and directions.

 

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, avoiding attire that may be deemed inappropriate for a sacred place. During the rainy season, it is recommended to bring insect repellent and an umbrella due to the proximity to the canal and high humidity. Photography is allowed, but mindfulness should be observed in areas where religious ceremonies are held.

 

In summary, Wat Khlong Ho Thong is not only an important Buddhist temple but also a cultural landmark in Prachinburi Province. It embodies the devotion of the local community, preserves religious traditions, and provides a tranquil space for visitors seeking spiritual enrichment. Whether to pay respects, make merit, admire architecture, or learn about local life, this temple is a place worth visiting.

 

 

Wat Khlong Ho Thong was founded in 1920, originally called Wat Bang Takok, and was renamed to reflect the nearby canal. It was granted Wisungkhamsima in 1998.

 

The temple features an ordination hall, preaching hall, chanting pavilion, monks’ residences, a funeral pavilion, and a museum with ancient artifacts.

 

The current abbot is Phra Khru Wimonpanyanukit (Thawisak Techapanyo).

 

The temple is renowned for sacred amulets created by Luang Pho Sakorn, believed to bring kindness, protection, and resilience, continuing the lineage of Luang Pho Chad of Wat Bang Krabao.

 

Travel by car from Bangkok via Rangsit–Nakhon Nayok Road to Ban Sang, then turn into Moo 6, Bang Toei. Public transport options include buses and minibuses with local connections.

 

The temple is open daily from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM.

 

Important festivals include the annual Kathin ceremony, Buddhist Lent, and the End of Buddhist Lent celebrations.

 

Visitors should dress respectfully, wearing modest clothing to show respect for the sacred site.