Wat Udom Khongkha Khiri Khet, historically known as "Wat Pa Phatthana Tham," holds profound spiritual significance as the residence of the late Venerable Luang Pu Phang Jittakutto, a prominent master of the Thai Forest Tradition (the lineage of Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatta). The history of the temple began in 1949 when Luang Pu Phang, during his solitary pilgrimage (Thudong), arrived at this secluded forest near the Phu Meng Mountains. At the time, the area was known by locals as "Dun," referring to a natural spring that flowed year-round. It was a wild, untamed forest feared for its mystical legends and spirits. Recognizing the site's "Sappaya" (suitability) for intensive Vipassana meditation due to its isolation and natural tranquility, Luang Pu Phang decided to establish a monastic residence here.

The spiritual and architectural heart of the monastery is the "Luang Pu Phang Memorial Pagoda" (Chedi Kaew). This Thai-contemporary bell-shaped stupa is intricately decorated with reflective glass mosaics that shimmer brilliantly under the sunlight, symbolizing the illumination of wisdom. Inside the sanctuary, it enshrines the Holy Relics of the Lord Buddha and the bone relics of Luang Pu Phang himself. Remarkably, his relics have transformed into clear, crystalline spheres—a phenomenon highly revered by Buddhists as a physical testament to his attainment of Arahatship (enlightenment). The interior also features a lifelike wax figure of the master and a museum displaying his "Atthaparikkan" (the eight monastic requisites), including his original alms bowl, worn robes, and bamboo umbrella tent, reflecting his life of extreme simplicity and detachment.

The temple's geography is unique, nestled between the rugged terrain of the Phu Meng mountain range and the winding Chi River. The landscape is characterized by vast, flat rock outcroppings amidst ancient groves, providing a natural setting for walking meditation. Unlike typical tourist temples, Wat Udom Khongkha Khiri Khet maintains a strict atmosphere of silence and mindfulness. A notable site within the compound is the "Original Wooden Pavilion," preserved in its rustic state, where Luang Pu Phang once received disciples and delivered Dhamma talks. Today, the monastery remains a primary center for Buddhist practice, attracting practitioners who seek to escape the chaos of urban life to experience the profound stillness of the forest tradition and honor the legacy of one of Thailand’s most compassionate and disciplined spiritual masters.

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How to Get There

• From Khon Kaen city center, take Highway 12 (towards Chum Phae District), then turn left onto Highway 2062 heading towards Mancha Khiri District. From there, take the Mancha Khiri-Chaiyaphum route (Highway 229) for approximately 12 kilometers. There will be a left turnoff to the temple (clearly marked). The road is paved all the way to the temple.

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Travel Tips

• As this is a strict forest monastery dedicated to meditation, modest attire is required (women should wear long pants or skirts that cover their knees; no tank tops or crop tops) to respect the sanctuary and avoid disturbing the meditation of those practicing.

• Please maintain respectful behavior and refrain from making loud noises in all areas of the temple, especially near the monks' quarters and the meditation area, as this may disturb the monks who are practicing Vipassana meditation.

• Upon arrival, proceed directly to the glass pagoda to pay respects to the relics of Luang Pu Phang for good fortune before exploring other parts of the temple.

• Don't miss a walk along the Chi River, where there is a wooden pavilion and a line of large trees. The atmosphere here is cooler and more peaceful than other areas, ideal for a calm rest.

• The temple is located quite far from the district, and there are no shops within the temple grounds. It is recommended to bring drinking water or light snacks. Please maintain cleanliness and dispose of all trash outside the temple afterwards.

• If you wish to visit Luang Pu Phang's original wooden quarters, please look for signs or inquire with temple staff, as access may be restricted for renovations.

• Because the temple is located near a forest area, wild monkeys may occasionally be present. Tourists should keep valuables and food in their cars or sealed bags and should refrain from feeding the animals, as this disrupts the natural balance.

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Admission Fees:

• Free Admission

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.