Luang Pu Cha, Nong Pa Pong Temple

Wat Nong Pah Pong: A Dharma Place of Peace and Meditation by Luang Pu Cha Wat Nong Pah Pong is located in Warin Chamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. It is a forest temple in the meditation tradition founded by Luang Pu Cha Suphatto, a famous monk who practiced meditation and spread the original Theravada Buddhism. This temple has a simple identity, emphasizing peace and shade, and is a center for practicing meditation and Vipassana meditation. History and Background Wat Nong Pah Pong was founded in 1954. It was originally a deserted forest full of tall trees and wild animals. Luang Pu Cha chose this place to practice meditation and built a monastery for interested monks and laypeople to practice meditation. At first, there was only a small hut, but as Luang Pu Cha’s fame spread, the temple began to have disciples from all over the country and abroad traveling to study the Dharma. Atmosphere and Meditation When entering Wat Nong Pah Pong, the first thing you will notice is the peace and shade of the large trees covering the temple grounds. The temple itself does not have luxurious architecture. There are only simple wooden huts, a Dharma hall, and a solemn Ubosot. Important places in the temple include the Luang Pu Cha Chedi, which enshrines his ashes, and the Luang Pu Cha Museum, which exhibits his belongings and history. Wat Nong Pah Pong is a place open to the public to practice Dhamma in accordance with the Four Foundations of Mindfulness. It has strict discipline and emphasizes simplicity. Both monks and laypeople who stay here must follow the principle of “Aramikawat”, which means eating simply, staying quietly, and practicing Dhamma continuously. Highlights of Wat Nong Pah Pong • It is the center of Theravada Buddhism in the forest temple sect. Luang Pu Cha’s disciples have spread out to establish branch forest temples throughout the country and abroad. • It is suitable for true Dhamma practice. Those who want to practice meditation and Vipassana will have a simple and peaceful first-hand experience. • It has a shady, peaceful atmosphere, and is full of nature, suitable for cultivating mindfulness and learning Dhamma. Summary Wat Nong Pah Pong is a place that reflects the essence of Buddhism in a simple and strict form. Those who come here will experience the power of Luang Pu Cha’s Dhamma and be able to practice Dhamma to the fullest. If you are looking for a place of solitude and meditation, Wat Nong Pah Pong is a must-see destination.