Wat Huai Mongkol is located in the Tab Tai sub-district of Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. This temple is renowned for housing the largest statue of Luang Phor Toad in the world. The history of the temple dates back to its original name, "Wat Huay Khot," situated in the Huay Khot community. The name was later changed to "Wat Huai Mongkol" by His Majesty the King to honor and reflect the development in the area when a new road was constructed, transforming a dirt road into a paved one.

 

Phra Phitsan Sithi Khun, or Khun Phiroj Paphatsaro, the current abbot of the temple, is a revered monk known for his excellent ethics and dedication to community development. He collaborated with General Wiset Konguthai, the deputy royal bodyguard, on the project to create the largest Luang Phor Toad statue in the world. This was intended as a royal merit-making offering on the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King's 72nd birthday while also promoting the sustainable practice of Buddhism.

 

The strong belief in the miracles attributed to Luang Phor Toad has fostered cooperation from various organizations, both public and private, to construct this monumental statue. Her Majesty Queen Sirikit graciously presided over the ceremony for the bronze casting of the statue on August 27, 2004, and granted permission to display her initials "S.K." at the front of the statue.

 

The statue of Luang Phor Toad stands 9.9 meters wide and 11.5 meters tall, situated on a three-tiered base that measures 70 meters by 70 meters. Below the base, there is a large hall designated for religious ceremonies on significant religious days.

 

Additionally, Wat Huai Mongkol features a statue of Luang Phor Toad stepping on fresh seawater, crafted from a giant, over 1,000-year-old teak tree buried deep beneath the sand of the Yom River in Phrae Province. It is believed that trees with trunks of a certain height are inhabited by tree spirits, safeguarding those who come to pay their respects. The creation of sacred statues from teak wood, such as the Luang Phor Toad stepping on fresh seawater, is considered to carry profound sanctity and power.

 

Getting There Traveling to Wat Huai Mongkol is convenient by car or motorcycle, starting from Hua Hin:

 

From Hua Hin Town: Head towards the Hua Hin-Huai Mongkol Road and drive approximately 10 kilometers. At the intersection, turn right onto the Huai Mongkol Road and continue for about 3 kilometers, where you will see the sign for Wat Huai Mongkol on your right.

 

From Bangkok: Take Highway No. 4 (Phetkasem Road) heading towards Prachuap Khiri Khan. Continue driving until you reach Hua Hin. Once in Hua Hin, turn left onto the Hua Hin-Huai Mongkol Road and follow the aforementioned steps.

 

Wat Huai Mongkol offers various facilities for visitors, including a parking area, food and beverage shops, and resting areas.

 

Visiting Wat Huai Mongkol not only allows for merit-making and reverence towards sacred symbols but also provides an opportunity to learn about Thai culture and the history of Buddhism. This experience contributes to nurturing the spirit and promoting harmonious coexistence in society, filled with happiness and peace.