Wat Khlong Toei Nok

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Operating day: Daily

Operating time: 08.00 - 17.00

Wat Khlong Toei Nok is located at 36 Kasem Rat Road, Khlong Toei Subdistrict, Khlong Toei District, Bangkok. It is an ancient temple with historical and cultural significance in the Khlong Toei area. Although the exact date of its establishment is unknown, records from the Department of Religious Affairs indicate that the temple was founded in 1827.

The original name of the temple was “Wat Ku Kasem Khongkharam,” reflecting the collaboration of those involved in its creation. The name derives from the contributors: the land donor, “Ku,” and the financial donor, “Kasem.” Their names were combined to form “Ku Kasem,” and the suffix “Khongkharam,” referencing its riverside location, was added. This resulted in the full name “Wat Ku Kasem Khongkharam,” meaning “The riverside temple built by Ku and Kasem.”

Later, the temple’s name was changed by local residents to “Wat Ban Lao.” It is believed that this change stemmed from the temple’s location near the mouth of Ban Lao Canal. This area was once home to a significant number of Mon and Laotian migrants, who established their community there. The term “Ban Lao” (“Laotian village”) might have evolved over time into “Ban Lao.” This name reflects the ethnic diversity that played a key role in shaping the local community.

The temple’s current name, “Wat Khlong Toei Nok,” corresponds to its location in the Khlong Toei district. To differentiate it from the nearby “Wat Khlong Toei Nai” (Inner Khlong Toei Temple), the name was adjusted to highlight its position as the “outer” Khlong Toei temple.

Wat Khlong Toei Nok is not only a religious site for Buddhist ceremonies but also a spiritual center for the local community. It serves as a symbol of the history and transformation of Khlong Toei, reflecting the blending of cultures and the stories of diverse peoples who have lived in the area.

As such, Wat Khlong Toei Nok stands as an important temple that goes beyond its religious role to serve as a historical monument of Khlong Toei. It is worthy of further study, preservation, and appreciation in the years to come.

Travel To reach the temple, take Rama IV Road and enter Kasem Rat Road. Parking is available within the temple grounds, but space may be limited, particularly during major religious events.