Wat Nong Pah Pong

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About Wat Nong Pah Pong

The monastery is a serene and tranquil place, nestled in the heart of a beautiful forest. It is a tribute to Ajahn Chah, a revered teacher of the Thai Forest Tradition. The forest itself is a sight to behold, with the Stupa and museum/memorial dedicated to Ajahn Chah adding to its allure. The monastery also features walking meditation paths through the trees, just outside the Dharma Hall. The sounds of the forest are soothing, providing a perfect environment for relaxation. Day visitors are welcome to explore and experience the tranquility of the place. However, it's important to note that English is not widely spoken here, although there are a few posters in English in the museum.

The monastery is also home to Wat Pah Pong, a must-visit for disciples of Ajahn Chah or those interested in learning more about him. The temple is peaceful and inspirational, located on the outskirts of the city. It is a perfect place for those seeking a location for future meditation practice. The temple is best reached by taxi, as there is no regular bus service to the location.

The monastery grounds feature two main buildings, a museum and a large stupa. The museum houses old pictures, old money, and even some skeletons, providing a glimpse into the past. The stupa is a sight to behold, definitely worth a few camera clicks. The monastery does not have the amusement park feel that some temples have, providing a more authentic and serene experience.

The temple is also a significant place for westerners interested in Buddhism, as Ajan Chah, the Abbott of this temple, was famous for teaching western monks. His remains are housed here, making it a great place for meditation.

The monastery is a few kilometers from Ubon Ratchathani, alongside a quiet road. The well-kept park is a forest in itself, home to different kinds of plants and rare trees. The temple grounds are spread in many different directions, with the temple, modern pagodas, monk houses, and small teaching religious classes all nestled in a vast canvas of paths. The serenity of the place is striking, and visitors might feel as if they are alone in this immense place, save for a few monks and unafraid squirrels. The museum area is quite interesting, housing an assortment of items from different civilizations' past. This temple, founded by Achan Cha, a Buddhist monk, is a place of meditation, and many foreign monks come here to learn Thai Buddhism. It is certainly one of the most well-known temples in Ubon Ratchathani.

Visitors are advised to dress appropriately, with women recommended to wear long skirts/pants and 3/4 length white shirts, with no shoulders bared. It's also important to note that the monastery is far out of town and there are no real services. Visitors are advised to book a taxi before they come to take them back to the city and hotel at the end of the day. It's also recommended to bring water and snacks. The gates to the monastery lock at 6PM and there are no services once the local vendors close down their wares.

Overall, the monastery offers a peaceful and relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The walk from the road to the monastery is peaceful, with monks sweeping the leaves on wide concrete paths. However, it's important to note that the walk could be a problem for those in poor health. It's also recommended to bring water, especially for those with kids, as it can get very hot. Despite the heat, the monastery offers a serene and tranquil experience, providing a much-needed break from the noise and chaos of city life.