“A Thammayut Forest Temple focusing on meditation and spiritual retreat, set amidst the serene Nam Un Mountains, near Pang Sila Thong.”
Wat Pa Thammathara (Wat Nam Un) was founded in 1984 (B.E. 2527) by local villagers from Ban Khao Nam Un: Phor Yai Tan and Mr. Kamploi donated 6 rai each, and Mrs. Noi donated 1 rai, totaling 13 rai. The temple is located in the Nam Un Mountain range, Moo 4, Ban Khao Nam Un, Hin Dat Subdistrict, Pang Sila Thong District, Kamphaeng Phet Province.
Originally, the area was a lush forest, but it was cleared and degraded due to land encroachment and annual forest fires. Later, the site was rehabilitated through the “Small House in the Big Forest” project, initiated under the royal initiative of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, with collaboration from local villagers and government agencies. Phra Kru Thammathorn Wichai Apithano, the abbot, led efforts to raise awareness of environmental conservation and coordinated reforestation and restoration activities during important occasions.
Location and Setting
The temple is located along the Khlong Lan – Lat Yao road, approximately 500 meters from Pang Sila Thong Hospital, 2 kilometers from the Small House in the Big Forest Project, and 7 kilometers from Pang Sila Thong town center. Its position on the mountain provides a peaceful environment ideal for meditation and mindfulness surrounded by nature.
Activities and Services
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Merit-making and Worship: Open to visitors for making merit and paying respects to sacred objects.
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Meditation Retreats: Suitable for both short-term and long-term meditation, including sitting meditation and walking meditation.
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Landscape Viewing: Visitors can enjoy the scenic and tranquil forest surroundings.
Nature and Environment
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The temple is surrounded by evergreen forest, featuring a variety of local plants and trees.
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Local birds and small wildlife, such as squirrels, can be observed.
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Areas that were once degraded have gradually recovered into lush, serene forest.
Abbot’s Role and Community
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Phra Kru Thammathorn Wichai Apithano has played a key role in promoting environmental conservation and guiding the local community in forest restoration.
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The Ban Khao Nam Un community participates in tree planting and temple maintenance, making the temple a spiritual and meditation center for locals.
How to Get There
By Private Car:
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From Kamphaeng Phet city, take Phahonyothin Road (Highway 1) toward Khlong Lan District.
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Upon reaching Pang Sila Thong District, turn into Hin Dat Subdistrict.
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The temple is located along the Khlong Lan – Lat Yao road, near Pang Sila Thong Hospital, and about 2 km from the Small House in the Big Forest Project.
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Parking is available for visitors.
By Public Transport:
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Take a minibus or local bus from Kamphaeng Phet city to Pang Sila Thong.
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From the district center, hire a local taxi, motorbike, or songthaew for the 7-km ride to the temple.
Travel Tips
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Dress Code: Wear modest clothing suitable for a forest temple.
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Behavior: Maintain silence and mindfulness, as this is a meditation-focused temple.
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Best Visiting Time: Open year-round; early mornings are recommended for the most peaceful experience.
Admission Fee:
- Free of charge
Opening Hours:
- Open daily, generally 06:00 – 18:00. For exact times, contact Hin Dat Subdistrict Office for additional information.