Wat Pa Kung, officially known as Wat Prachakom Wanaram, is one of the most famous Vipassana meditation forest temples in Roi Et Province, Thailand. Located amid peaceful woodland in Si Somdet District, the temple was founded by Luang Pu Sri Mahawiro, a highly revered meditation monk and direct disciple in the lineage of Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta, one of Thailand’s most respected forest meditation masters.Originally established as a quiet forest meditation retreat, the temple later developed into an important Buddhist spiritual center. Its most remarkable highlight is the massive sandstone pagoda inspired by Borobudur, the world-renowned Buddhist monument on Java Island, Indonesia. After visiting Borobudur, Luang Pu Sri was deeply impressed by its sacred atmosphere and magnificent architecture, inspiring him to create a similar structure in Thailand as a place for Buddhist worship and Dharma propagation.

The pagoda is constructed entirely from natural sandstone and designed according to Buddhist cosmological beliefs. Each level symbolizes stages of spiritual liberation from worldly desires toward ultimate enlightenment. The walls are beautifully carved with scenes from the Buddha’s life, the Vessantara Jataka, and sacred Buddhist motifs. The craftsmanship blends Javanese artistic influences with traditional Northeastern Thai aesthetics in remarkable harmony.Inside the pagoda are sacred Buddha relics, important Buddha images, and statues of Luang Pu Sri Mahawiro. The atmosphere within the temple grounds is calm, cool, and serene, making it ideal for meditation and spiritual practice. Large trees and walking meditation paths throughout the area further enhance the peaceful forest-temple environment.

Beyond being a major religious attraction in Northeastern Thailand, Wat Pa Kung also serves as a spiritual sanctuary for Buddhist devotees from across the country. During important Buddhist holidays, visitors gather here to make merit, practice meditation, and pay respects to Luang Pu Sri. Today, the temple stands as a valuable center of Buddhist art, architecture, and Thailand’s forest meditation tradition.

• By Car: From Roi Et city center, take Highway No. 2044 toward Wapi Pathum District, then turn right onto Highway No. 2322 heading to Si Somdet District. The temple is located about 20 kilometers from downtown Roi Et, with clear directional signs along the route.

• Visit during the morning or late afternoon to enjoy beautiful lighting around the pagoda and avoid the midday heat.

• Dress respectfully, as this is an important religious site. Sleeveless shirts and short pants are not recommended.

• The quiet area behind the temple features walking meditation paths, ideal for meditation and spiritual practice.

• Bring drinking water and a hat if visiting during the daytime, as the pagoda area is quite open and sunny.

• Visitors are welcome to make merit or offer donations according to their faith.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission (donations are welcome)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:00 AM – 06:00 PM