Wat Burapharam is a historic Buddhist temple located in the heart of Ubon Ratchathani, founded in 1854 (B.E. 2397) by the venerable monk Phra Ajahn Sao Kantasilo, the spiritual teacher of Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta. It is considered one of the most important origins of the Vipassana forest meditation tradition in Thailand.

Originally, the area was a sparse forest (locally called "Song-Seng") inhabited by various wild animals, rarely frequented by people, and considered ideal for meditative practice. Luang Pu Sao and Luang Pu Sitha used this location as a meditation retreat before it became a formal temple.

In 1915 (B.E. 2458), Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta traveled from Wat Boromnivasa in Bangkok to become a disciple of Luang Pu Sao and practiced Dhamma at this very site. With land and funds donated by Prince Sapphasitthiprasong, the temple was officially established and later became a major center for the Thai forest meditation tradition. Many great meditation masters from around Thailand have come here to practice.

The temple features simple yet dignified architecture. Notably, the main assembly hall (Uposatha) is adorned with traditional elements, while the original preaching hall, built in 1915, once stood on the grounds where Luang Pu Sao’s cremation took place. After the cremation, a new preaching hall was erected but was later destroyed by fire. Subsequently, Phra Khru Amornsitth initiated the construction of a large viharn (which is still under construction), intended to enshrine lifelike statues of five great meditation masters: Phra Ajahn Sitha Chaiseno, Phra Ajahn Sao Kantasilo, Phra Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta, Phra Yanavisit Singh Khantayakamo, and Phra Sitthidhamrangsikhamphi Methacharn (Si Dhammatharo).

The temple also houses a beautiful wooden library (Ho Trai) that preserves palm-leaf manuscripts and important religious scriptures, adding historical and cultural value.

In 1982 (B.E. 2525), the temple officially became part of the Ubon Ratchathani municipality due to the expansion of city boundaries. Much of the temple’s early history has been passed down through oral tradition, as no formal written records exist.

Wat Burapharam stands as a sacred space of religious, historical, and cultural significance—an enduring symbol of the Thai forest tradition.

• By private car: follow Chaeng Sanit Road into Ubon city and proceed toward Phalochai Road.

• Local transportation: take a songthaew (shared taxi) or motorcycle taxi from downtown.

• From the bus terminal: local public transport or taxis can easily reach the temple.

• Dress modestly to show respect for the sacred grounds.

• Consider visiting with a local guide or reading about the temple beforehand for deeper understanding.

• Keep noise to a minimum, as this is an active meditation and worship site.

Admission Fee: Free entry

Opening Time: Open daily from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM