Wat Pa Salawan (Burapachan Chedi)

History & Significance

Wat Pa Salawan was established in 1931 as a small monastic residence. Somdet Phra Maha Weerawong (Uan Tisso), who then held the title of Phra Phrommuni, named the temple "Wat Pa Salawan" because the surrounding area was originally a dense Shorea obtusa forest (known in Thai as Pa Mai Teng Rang). The temple grew significantly after Luang Pho Phut Thaniyo arrived to practice Dhamma and became the abbot in 1970. He dedicated himself to developing the temple's facilities to support Dhamma practitioners.

For over 90 years, Wat Pa Salawan has stood as a crucial spiritual sanctuary and a major base for the "Dhamma Army" of Vipassana meditation monks. It is deeply connected to some of Thailand's most revered forest tradition masters, including Luang Pu Sao Kantasilo, Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatto, Luang Pu Singh Khantayakhamo, Phra Achan Phon Sumano, and Luang Pho Phut Thaniyo. Following the passing of Luang Pho Phut in 2000, the Burapachan Chedi was constructed as a lasting tribute to these spiritual guides.

Highlights & What to See

The main highlight of the temple is the Burapachan Chedi, a beautiful memorial built to honor Luang Pho Phut Thaniyo and the other founding master monks. Inside the chedi, visitors can pay respects to the sacred Lord Buddha's relics, as well as the ashes and relics (Athi Thatu) of Luang Pho Phut and other revered master monks. The interior also features lifelike statues of Luang Pho Phut Thaniyo, Luang Pu Singh, Luang Pu Sao, and Luang Pu Mun.

On the exterior of the chedi, visitors can admire detailed low-relief sandstone carvings. These exquisite artworks depict the portraits of Luang Pho Phut, the master monks, and various stories from Buddhist teachings, offering both artistic beauty and spiritual inspiration.

Visitor Information

Wat Pa Salawan is open daily to visitors and practitioners from 07:00 to 16:00. There is no admission fee to enter the temple grounds. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, in accordance with temple etiquette. On-site parking facilities are available for those traveling by private vehicle. For inquiries, you can contact the temple at 0 4425 6173.

How to Get There

The temple is located on Suebsiri Road, Nai Mueang Subdistrict, in the city center of Nakhon Ratchasima Province. It is easily accessible by local transport, tuk-tuks, or private cars, with convenient parking available on the premises.