Wat Phra Dhammakaya
Facts and practical information
Wat Phra Dhammakaya, Thailand, is an emblematic and vast Buddhist temple complex known for its distinctive architecture and sprawling meditation spaces. Located in the Khlong Luang District of Pathum Thani Province, this temple has gained international recognition for its grandiose size and its focus on the Dhammakaya meditation method.
The temple was established in 1970 by the Venerable Maechi Chandra Khonnokyoong and her student, the Venerable Dhammajayo Bhikkhu. It is characterized by its central stupa, known as the Dhammakaya Cetiya, which is adorned with hundreds of thousands of Buddha statues. This glittering structure represents the three jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dharma (his teachings), and the Sangha (the monastic community).
Wat Phra Dhammakaya covers an area exceeding 1,000 acres, making it one of the largest temple complexes in Thailand. It is renowned for its large-scale meditation events, which can accommodate hundreds of thousands of participants in a single gathering. The temple's approach to Buddhism emphasizes personal transformation through inner peace and mental discipline.
The site has not been without controversy, with the temple's leadership facing legal challenges and criticism over fundraising practices. Nevertheless, Wat Phra Dhammakaya continues to be a beacon for many seeking spiritual growth, offering a unique blend of traditional Theravada Buddhism and modern organizational methods.
Wat Phra Dhammakaya – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: National Science Museum, History of Wat Phra Dhammakaya, Southeast Asian Ceramics Museum, Golden Jubilee Museum of Agriculture.
Pathum Thani