“Is this temple really under royal patronage?” some might ask. Indeed it is. Wat Bua Khwan holds many surprises for those who visit.
Wat Bua Khwan is an eclectic temple. It gained royal patronage in 2012. Typically temples with royal connections have classic designs. This is especially true in Bangkok. But Wat Bua Khwan’s monks enjoyed some creative freedom.
Near the entrance visitors are greeted by many deities. From Rahu to Dattatraya each has its own altar. Fortunetellers offer insights into the future. Monks also bless visitors.
Let us explore the monastery. We will discover the new Ubosot. It has a cruciform layout. It is also elevated.
Inside the walls are covered in colorful reliefs. The Ubosot is grand in scale and decor. Yet its main Buddha is most unique. It is a replica. It copies the Buddha from India’s Mahabodhi Temple.
This Buddha is named Phra Phutta Metta in Thai. It confirms Wat Bua Khwan’s originality. The temple certainly has no shortage of unique features.
Wat Bua Khwan is in Nonthaburi province. It is north of Bangkok. It seems far from central Bangkok. But it is easy to reach by taxi.
To save money on the trip take the purple metro line. Get off at Nonthaburi Civic Center. Taxis are also available from Kasetsart University BTS station.
Wat Bua Khwan has a long history. It became a temple around 2435 BE. This was thanks to Phra Kru Preecha Chelim from Wat Chelim Phra Kiat. He initiated the temple’s construction. It then became a revered place.
Later in 2491 BE Phra Athikarn Piyung Chattmalo from Wat Kamphaeng took over. He developed the temple. It became a revered place due to support from local people.
In 2506 BE it gained royal status. Phra Athikarn Boonchuay Dhammarongtam continued the work. He helped develop the temple consistently.
Wat Bua Khwan provides Dhamma education. It supports Pali studies. It also arranges religious activities for Nonthaburi province. Moreover it gives aid to other temples.
Wat Bua Khwan offers diverse education and activities. These support both the Sangha and the public. This makes it an important religious site.
The main Buddha image Phra Phutta Metta is in the Ubosot. Also present are Phra Sareeputra and Mokkhallana.
So as we conclude our visit remember Wat Bua Khwan. It blends tradition with unique creativity. It is a testament to faith and artistry.