ไทย
Mahathart Vajiramongkol Temple, located in Ban Bang Tong, Na Nua Sub-district, Ao Luek District, Krabi Province, was built in 1940 on a land plot donated by Mr. Plao Thongsiri, Mr. Man Pengkit, and Mr. Nuam Dampun. Originally known by the locals as ‘Wat Bang Tong’ following its location. The temple received the royal consecration (Wissungkam Sema – in Thai) on February 13, 1953, the consecration area is 30 meters wide and 70 meters long. The ceremony to tie the boundary stones took place on March 14, 1976.
In 2002, when the public and various organizations from different sectors in Krabi province collaborated to establish the ‘Project to Build a Buddhist Monument and Great Stupa, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Maha Vajiralongkorn’ at this temple.
The objective was to honor His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who at that time held the royal title of Crown Prince, the reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Thailand. On November 16, 2549, His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn bestowed a new name upon the temple, renaming it ‘Wat Mahathart Vajiramongkol,’ and also graciously abbreviated it as ‘M.W.K.’ The consecration took place in front of the main Buddha image, while the Buddha’s sacred name ‘Phra Phutthataksin Chaiya Mongkol’ was bestowed for regular use in Buddhist ceremonies.
Pra Mahathart Chedi (The Great Stupa) at Wat Bang Tong in this context refers to the influence derived from the Mahabodhi Temple, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site in Bodh Gaya, Bihar State, India. The Mahabodhi Temple is the place where the Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. At Wat Bang Tong, this influence is reflected in the presence of a prominent stupa, standing tall in the center of the temple, with a height of 95 meters, making it the tallest stupa in the southern region.
Surrounding the main stupa, there is a walkway or “Rabiang Rai,” encircling the stupa on all four sides. Along this pathway, there are various Buddha statues placed at intervals, allowing Buddhist devotees to engage in worship and pay their respects.
Inside the Mahathart Chedi, a large central Buddha image stands prominently and exudes a sense of majesty. This image serves as the main focal point, revered by locals and tourists alike who visit this Buddhist site. In addition to this, there are exquisite mural paintings on the wall that narrate stories related to the life of Buddha. The walls are adorned with delicate Thai patterns and intricate details, creating a visually captivating experience for those who gaze upon them.
The Mahathart Chedi at Wat Bang Tong is open for worship and visits from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm. Proper attire is required, with men dressed modestly and women wearing knee-length skirts or pants with covered shoulders. It is prohibited to wear hats inside the stupa.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/a4kDoRkX1Q8YkFsk7