Wat Nong Pho (Luang Pho Doem Museum)

History & Significance

Wat Nong Pho, located in Takhli District, Nakhon Sawan Province, was originally an abandoned temple dating back to the Ayutthaya period. It was officially established as a temple in 1831 (B.E. 2374) and received its royal consecration (Wisungkhamsima) in 1915 (B.E. 2458). Originally, a massive Bodhi tree with seven spreading branches grew on the site, leading locals to call it "Wat Somphot Pho Krachai" and later "Wat Somphot Pho Yen." During a regional inspection, Somdej Phra Mahasamanachao Krom Phraya Vajirananavarorasa renamed the temple "Wat Nong Pho" to match the name of the surrounding village.

The temple is highly significant as the former residence of Luang Pho Doem Phutthasaro (Phra Khru Niwasthammakhan), the fifth abbot of the temple. Revered as the "God of the Four Rivers" (Thep Chao Haeng Mueang Si Khwae), he is legendary in the amulet community. He is especially famous for his "Mit Mor" (ivory-handled exorcist knives, also known as Mit Thepsattra), which are believed to possess divine protective powers feared by evil spirits.

Highlights & What to See

The main highlight is the Luang Pho Doem Museum, located inside a striking white chedi. The museum is divided into two floors:

• Upper Floor: Houses four Buddha images facing the four cardinal directions.
• Lower Floor: Features exhibits detailing the life and teachings of Luang Pho Doem, along with historical artifacts discovered in the Ban Nong Pho area. These artifacts, including ancient human skeletons, jewelry, and utensils, date back 4,000 to 8,000 years, proving that the area has been inhabited since prehistoric times and the Sukhothai era. It also displays ancient manuscripts written on traditional Thai black paper and western paper, covering literature, administration, Buddhism, and local laws.

Additionally, visitors can pay respects to a life-sized metal statue of Luang Pho Doem housed inside a dedicated Mondop. An annual temple fair is held on the 13th waxing moon of the 3rd lunar month for devotees to gild and pay homage to his statue.

Visitor Information

The temple and museum are open from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays) from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM. The admission fee is 40 THB for adults and 20 THB for children. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it is an active place of worship.

How to Get There

Wat Nong Pho is located in Nong Pho Sub-district, Takhli District, Nakhon Sawan Province. It is easily accessible by car, and parking facilities are available on-site for visitors.