Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Revisited (BE2568) Wat PhaKho (Wat Ratchapraditsathan) ~ Somdet Chao Pha Kho LP Thuad - SongKhla - Thailand - (Part 2/2).

Having the opportunity to visit Wat Pha Kho again, one can truly appreciate why it is a place worth returning to. The atmosphere is both peaceful and refreshing, offering a spiritual and cultural retreat from everyday life.
This edition of our Temples Journey column presents a travel route tracing the history of Luang Pu Thuad in Sathing Phra, Songkhla. It is an ideal itinerary for those who love local cultural tourism or for devotees seeking to combine faith with learning, exploring the life, teachings, and sacred sites associated with this highly revered monk.
Visitors can experience not only the historical and architectural treasures of the temple but also the spiritual aura that has made Luang Pu Thuad a beloved figure for generations.
Wat PhaKho was originally built in 1514 and underwent major renovations in 1610. It was the residence of the highly revered monk Somdet Chao Pha Kho, also known as Luang Pu Thuad Yiap Nam Thalav Chuet, famous monk for walking on fresh water. Wat PhaKho is renowned for its rich history, spiritual significance, and architectural treasures. Chedi Phra Suwanna Malika (Chedi Sri Rattana Mahathat), a pagoda housing relics of the Buddha, built between BE2048–2100 with contributions from Phraya Damthamrongkasat (or Phraya Thammarangkhan) and monks who retrieved relics from Sri Lanka. The Chedi stands 40 meters high and is accompanied by a Wiharn (assembly hall), Ubosot (ordination hall), and Thammasala (sermon hall).

The magnificent Chedi Phra Suwanna Malika rises gracefully over the temple grounds, housing sacred relics of the Buddha brought from Sri Lanka. Its base is adorned with numerous venerated Phra Buddha statues, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere for devotees. This sacred structure symbolizes faith, devotion, and the enduring legacy of Thai Buddhist heritage.
Pay homage to Luang Pu Thuad Yieb Nam Talay Chuet at Wat Phakho, Somdet Chao Pha Kho (Luang Pu Thuad, who walking on fresh water).
This old Pavilion was built during the Ayutthaya period. During the reign of King Phra Kho, it was used as a place for oath of allegiance ceremony of the governer of Phatthalung and also as a place for settling legal cases at the time.
This sacred Lean Chedi was built alongside the Chedi Phra Suwanna Malika and carries a timeless moral lesson for future generations by story telling:
Long time ago, giants attempted to build Chedis to rival human construction. Humans, driven by faith and devotion, constructed the Chedi Phra Suwanna Malika. The giants, despite their strength, built their pagoda as well, but it could not stand as tall or as upright as the human-built one. Today, the giants’ Chedi appears smaller and leans to the ground — a lasting reminder that true strength comes from faith and sincerity, not just power or size.
This story embodies the Buddhist teaching that spiritual devotion and moral integrity outweigh mere physical might.
The sacred Ubosot ordination hall of Wat PhaKho in southern Thailand, showcasing traditional Thai Buddhist architecture with an ornate gabled roof, intricate gold and red decorations, and a peaceful temple atmosphere. At the front stands a powerful Tao Wessuwan guardian statue, furious and imposing, symbolizing protection.
Inside the main altar of the Ubosot at Wat PhaKho, showcasing a stunning golden altar adorned with intricate traditional Thai patterns. A majestic golden Phra Buddha sits at the center, radiating serenity, surrounded by gilded decorations, sacred ornaments, and red carpet floors.
Inside the ubosot (ordination hall) of Wat PhaKho. The interior features rich reddish and maroon decorations with traditional Thai Buddhist motifs and subtle gold accents. Rows of small Buddha statues are embedded along the walls, evenly spaced and serene. The atmosphere is sacred and peaceful, with soft natural light illuminating the hall, polished floors, and a sense of deep spiritual reverence. The Ubosot at Wat PhaKho is adorned with sacred ropes (Sai Sin) and Phayant tied above, used in ceremonial blessings to transmit merit and protection to devotees.
The stunning bell tower of Wat PhaKho, rising gracefully above the temple grounds, a symbol of faith, tradition, and timeless Thai Buddhist craftsmanship.
The Shrine for elephant tethering post (a tie-down post), believed to have belonged to the governor of Sathing Phra, was found in the Pang Lung area of Sathing Phra district by Mr.Charoon Kanjanaphen, who then presented it to Wat PhaKho.
Stunning Phra Pikanet statue in Wat PhaKho.
Banner invitation for Kathina event BE2568 at Wat PhaKho. We're invite to the Kathina robe offering ceremony at Wat PhaKho each year to join in making merit and preserving the Buddhist tradition.
A realistic photo taken at Wat PhaKho featuring revered Luang Pu Thuad (LP Thuad) statues.

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See more LP Thuad  amulets from Wat PhaKho at:

👉 http://thaiamulets-dhammapath.blogspot.com/search/label/Wat%20PhaKho?m=0

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See more other Thai amulets at:

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Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Revisited (BE2568) Wat PhaKho (Wat Ratchapraditsathan) ~ Somdet Chao Pha Kho LP Thuad - SongKhla - Thailand - (Part 1/2).

Somdet Chao Pha Kho (LP Thuad) is the most revered of the great monks of Southern Thailand, and for good reason. According to legend, a band of pirates once sailing near the coast noticed the monk walking along a hillside in his distinctive manner and decided to put him to the test. They abducted him and carried him aboard their ship, but as they attempted to sail away, the wind died and the vessel would not move. The pirates were forced to anchor for many days until their supply of fresh water was exhausted. Taking pity on them, Somdet Chao Pha Kho (LP Thuad) extended his left foot into the salty sea, which then miraculously turned into clean, drinkable fresh water. Amazed and deeply grateful, the pirates immediately returned him safely to shore. From that day onward, both the pirates and the local people paid homage to the venerable monk.
Phra Leela guardian figures at top of the stairway.
A long stairway leading from the main road up to Wat PhaKho on the hilltop.
Photo taken with statue of Somdet Chao Pha Kho ~ LP Thuad and Phra Phutthacharn Toh.
The surrounding landscape of Wat Phakho with the Phra Sivali statue.
Hall building for general assembly use by novice monks for learning and chanting.
Small Sala and Wiharn at Wat PhaKho.
The ancient well where the monk's robes were washed in the past.
The Gong and the baby Buddha statue with one hand pointing to the sky and the other to the earth depicts the legendary moment of Prince Siddhartha's birth, symbolizing his declaration of supreme spiritual attainment and universal guidance.
The Main Pavilion for Paying Respects to Luang Pu Thuad. Visitors to this temple will come to understand that Luang Pu Thuad is truly a spiritual center for the people of Southern Thailand and for devotees throughout the country. Paying respects here is an important and meaningful part of the visit.
Photo taken inside the Pavilion building and altar venerated LP Thuad statues.
The Buddha's Footprint is imprinted on a rock slab on Khao Phiphat Singh. It existed before the establishment of the temple, as shown by the area’s former name, Khao Phutthabat (Mountain of the Buddha’s Footprint). Later, local villagers came to believe that this footprint belonged to Somdet Chao Pha Kho (Luang Pu Thuad), who is said to have prayed and left the imprint for his descendants to venerate before departing from the temple.
A collection of photographs featuring Luang Pu Thuad statues in many different postures.
Amulet counter of Wat PhaKho.

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See more LP Thuad  amulets from Wat PhaKho at:

👉 http://thaiamulets-dhammapath.blogspot.com/search/label/Wat%20PhaKho?m=0

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See more other Thai amulets at:

👉 http://www.thaiamulets-dhammapath.blogspot.com/?m=0

Sunday, January 11, 2026

Visiting Wat Rang Man (Wat Pracharat Bamrung) - LP Paew Pavaro - Nakhon Pathom - Thailand.

In May BE2568, I learned that Luang Pu Paew Pavaro was in Siriraj Hospital. When I visited the temple, I was still able to pay my respects to his statue and obtain his amulets. Sadly, after my visit, I heard that Luang Pu Paew Pavaro had passed away in December BE2568.
Portrait of LP Paew Pavaro (Phra Ratchamongkol Wicharakom) ~ Wat Rang Man (official name is Wat Pracharat Bamrung) located in Kamphaeng Saen district, Nakhon Pathom province. 
Luang Pu Paew Pavaro, a renowned monk and revered figure in Kamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom Province, was born on Wednesday, October 7, BE2466, the 14th waning moon of the 11th lunar month in the Year of the Pig, in Lak Met Village, Thung Khwang Subdistrict, Kamphaeng Saen District. His father was named Phan and his mother Jui.
When he was two years old, his family moved to Thung Khwang Subdistrict, Kamphaeng Saen District, where they primarily engaged in rice farming. His parents were known for their generosity and frequently participated in Dhamma discussions with monks. In BE2475, his father invited him to become a disciple at Wat Nong Muang, Tao It Subdistrict, to study with the monks. At that time, schools were often situated within temples, with monks serving as teachers. The boy (LP Paew Pavaro), nicknamed Ka Lae, was placed under the care of Luang Por Hong, the abbot of Wat Nong Muang. However, he had to leave school midway to assist with household chores.
At the age of 20, on June 27, BE2486, he was ordained as a monk at Wat Nong Pla Lai, Kamphaeng Saen District. His preceptors were PhraKru Sukit Thammasorn (Phra Athikan Huang Thammasaro) of Wat Kamphaeng Saen, Phra Athikan Pan Arakho of Wat Nong Pla Lai, and Phra Sanan of Wat Nong Pla Lai.
In BE2497, he resided at Wat Sawang Chat Pracha Bamrung in Kamphaeng Saen Subdistrict under Phra Ajahn Sunthon Chitamaro, the abbot. During this period, Luang Pu Paew Pavaro dedicated himself to studying the Dhamma and Vinaya, ultimately achieving the highest level of the Naktham Ek examination. He also taught Dhamma to monks and novices. Later, when the abbot disrobed, the position remained vacant for one to two years. Villagers, monks, and novices encouraged Luang Pu Paew to become abbot, although he initially hesitated.
From BE2502 until BE2551, Luang Pu Paew Pavaro resided at Wat Kamphaeng Saen. On March 31, BE2551, he moved to Wat Pracharat Bamrung (Wat Rang Man) in Rang Phikun Subdistrict, Kamphaeng Saen District, Nakhon Pathom Province, where he remained for the rest of his life.
Luang Pu Paew Pavaro passed away on Wednesday, December 17, BE2568, at the age of 103, leaving behind a profound spiritual legacy and enduring influence on the local community.
The charisma of Luang Pu Paew Pavaro makes Wat Rang Man, also known as Wat Pracharat Bamrung, beautiful and stunning. Exquisite stucco work can be seen throughout the temple, from the statues of angels, serpents, and dragons to the pavilion’s walls and pillars. Wat Pracharat Bamrung was originally known as Wat Rang Man. The temple was first located near a drainage area surrounded by tamarind trees, which led the villagers to call it Wat Rang Man. Later, a request was made to formally establish the site as a temple and its name was changed to Wat Pracharat Bamrung. The temple was officially established on March 31, BE2494. It was founded by PhraKru Sukit Thammasorn (LP Huang), the former abbot of Wat Kamphaeng Saen, who at that time served as the abbot of Thung Khwang subdistrict.
The Phra Sivali statue and the statue of Luang Pu Paew Pavaro, both exquisite works of art, are venerated in front of the pavilion.
The majestic Phayanak Naga statue and the stairway flanked by Phayanak Naga and Singha guardians.
The magnificent pavilion and wihan of Luang Pu Paew Pavaro reflect the temple’s spiritual and architectural grandeur.
Wax statue of LP Paew Pavaro.
Inside the Pavilion, there are also cast statues of sacred Buddha images such as Phra Sotorn, Phra Phuttha Chinnaraj, Phuttha Luang Pho RaiKhing, and Phuttha Luang Pu Dam, a Rattanakosin style Buddha image in royal attire that people respect and worship.etc.
The Holy Phayant with LP Paew Pavaro image. In BE2550, he traveled to Wat Rang Man (also known as Wat Pracharat Bamrung) a temple that was not only dilapidated but also surrounded by wilderness. To raise funds for its repairs, he began blessing amulets at the temple. At that time, temples were often in rural areas, making fundraising for construction extremely difficult. LP Paew Pavaro frequently meditated in the cemetery behind the temple, contemplating ways to support its restoration. Eventually, he decided to create a batch of his own image amulets to raise funds. Because Thailand already had a vast number of Buddhist amulets, his new amulets were initially not well-known and few people sought them, leading to a fundraising crisis. Later, a kind-hearted roadside stall owner near the temple donated money, and LP Paew Pavaro gifted him an amulet bearing his image. The stall owner happily gave the amulet to his children. During the New Year celebrations, some reckless individuals, after drinking, fired guns instead of fireworks. That night, the stall owner's son was struck by a stray bullet and immediately lost consciousness. Miraculously, he was completely unharmed, only temporarily unconscious. The stall owner realized that the amulet his son had been wearing had protected him. News of this miracle quickly spread throughout the town, and LP Paew’s amulets became famous almost overnight.
LP Paew Pavaro was renowned for crafting protective amulets as well as amulets that attract wealth. The story of the devotee surviving a gunshot while wearing one of his amulets greatly enhanced his reputation. The Master often said: “Whenever we go out, if we wear a Buddha amulet, our wishes will be fulfilled, and our desires granted. Upon returning home safely, we should remove the amulet and place it on our forehead, sincerely giving thanks. Maintain this mindset every day, following the Buddha’s correct thoughts and actions”. LP Paew Pavaro's amulets and sacred objects have been highly recommended. He also adhered strictly to the Dhamma and Vinaya.
Inside the pavilion, there is an amulet counter where visitors can obtain sacred amulets.
Visitors will find additional statues of Mae Nang Kwak, Phra Buddha, and Wooah Tanoo, with offering items conveniently arranged for worshippers to present offerings.
Delicate stucco artwork can be seen on the walls and around the Gong.
The Wihan features a magnificent, venerated statue of Luang Pu Paew Pavaro as its spiritual focal point.
In the open-air shrine of Wat Rang Man, a golden Phra Buddha stands alongside statues of Tao Wessuwan, creating a striking spiritual focal point.
The Shrine of King Thaksin and the beautifully maintained area around it.
The Ubosot Ordination Hall of Wat Rang Man ~ Wat Pracharat Bamrung.
Inside the Ubosot Ordination Hall, visitors can pay respect to the Phra Buddha Tanjai and admire the stunning mural paintings that adorn the walls.
The sacred Golden Phra Buddha and LP Paew Pavaro statue.
The impressive large Chedi at Wat Rang Man, currently under construction.
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See amulets by LP Paew Pavaro ~ Wat Rang Man at:
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