Wat Pa Phu Pha Sung (Phrathat Chom Pha)

History & Significance

Wat Pa Phu Pha Sung was established as a forest meditation center in the lineage of Venerable Luang Pu Man Phuritatto. Between 1985 and 1987, Luang Pho Phuth Thaniyo sent his disciple, Phra Ajarn Chet Thikhayuko, to practice dhutanga meditation in the area. Later, in 1994, Phra Maha Theeranat Akkhatheero journeyed to Phu Pha Sung and found the forest heavily damaged by deforestation. He decided to reside there alone in solitary retreat, collaborating with senior military officers to protect the ecosystem and wildlife. Initially granted 10 rai of land by the Royal Forest Department, the sanctuary's forest care expanded over time to 2,656 rai of dry evergreen forest within a total area of 2,800 rai. The site officially attained full temple status on July 24, 2009.

Highlights & What to See

The primary architectural landmark of the monastery is Phrathat Chom Pha (also known as Phra Maha Borommathat Chedi Sri Phu Pha Sung), a grand pagoda constructed on the cliffside that houses holy Buddha relics. Beyond its religious monuments, the temple sits on the unique geological terrain known as the Khorat Cuesta—a sandstone mountain ridge of the Phra Wihan formation shaped like a traditional Thai cleaver knife, featuring one steep cliff side and one sloped side. From this high elevation, visitors can take in stunning, unobstructed views of the entire Pak Chong valley.

Visitor Information

Admission to Wat Pa Phu Pha Sung is free of charge. As an active forest monastery dedicated to strict Buddhist meditation practice, all visitors are kindly asked to dress respectfully (covering shoulders and knees) and maintain quiet, mindful behavior throughout the temple grounds.

How to Get There

Wat Pa Phu Pha Sung is located in Khlong Muang Subdistrict, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The site sits on Khao Chang Luang within the Phu Luang mountain range at 760 meters altitude. Access is best achieved by private vehicle or local transport from downtown Pak Chong, heading toward the mountainous area of Khlong Muang.