Wat Non Kum is a beautiful temple located just off the Mittraphap Road, about 280 km from Central Bangkok. The Mittraphap Road is the main road from Bangkok to Khon Kaen and, along with Lumtakong Lake, is one of the attraction worth stopping to see during the journey.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:00 to 16:30
- Entrance Fee: Free
About Wat Non Kum
The assembly hall at Wat Non Kum is a striking building in a shape of cross, with a tall golden spire in the centre. The golden spire of the temple forms the roof of the tallest room within the temple designed to accommodate a 8 metre tall statue of Somdej Toh. Somdej Toh was the illegitimate son of King Rama II of Thailand who went on to achieve even greater notoriety as Thailand’s most famous Buddhist monk. Some Thai people believe that Somdej Toh possessed magical powers and that the amulets he blessed during his lifetime (1788 to 1872) have been imbued with his magical powers. Some visitors come to this temple under the belief that worshipping before this giant statue of Somdej Toh will bring them good luck. Other attractions at the temple include a lake, very kept gardens, and a series of interesting sculptures. The temple also operates a kitchen and offers all visitors a basic meal free of charge, although a donations to the temple are welcomed.
Wat Non Kum, which is in a sense a temple devoted to Thailand’s most famous monk, has been built largely with funds supplied by Thailand’s most famous actor, Sorapong Chatree. Sorapong Chatree’s film career has spanned five decades with the ageing star still acting as recently as 2018 in a supporting role in the popular TV series ‘The Legend of King Naresuan’. Sorapong, along with other donors, are still making contributions to the temple and building work is ongoing making it likely that there will be even more for future visitors to see on a trip to this temple.
Location of Wat Non Kum
- Wat Non Kum is located 48.9 km by road from Nakhon Ratachasima Railway Station.
