Wang Sukkhatidham Santinakorn Khao Ok Talu
Khao Ok Thalu is one of the most iconic landmarks in Phatthalung, Thailand. This towering limestone mountain stands as a symbol of the province, attracting visitors who admire its natural beauty and panoramic views. In addition to its famous trail, the path that goes to Khao Ok Thalu also leads to the serene monastery of Wang Sukkhatidham Santinakorn. All of the sacred buildings, structures, and artifacts in the monastery have been constructed and maintained by the Sangha community and its members. This tranquil and magnificent monastery, surrounded by exquisite nature, offers the perfect escape from the rush, bustle, and stress of everyday life. Individuals can engage in traditional Buddhist practices, cultivate mindfulness, and achieve inner peace at the monastery.
The Monastery’s Background
Wang Sukkhatidham Santinakorn Khao Ok Talu was established on August 12, 1993, led by Phra Ajarn Sarasilp Sarasiropakorn and supported by various sectors, including Phra Khru Satit Thammakan (the abbot of Nikrotharam Temple at the time), Mr. Prasit Phanpisut (the governor of Phatthalung Province at the time), the Isuzu Hat Yai team, the electrical engineering group, the volunteer group, soldiers from Kok Suea Camp, teachers, police, nurses, students, and the general public.
Wang Sukkhatidham Santinakorn is located on the eighth peak in the Nine Peaks Valley, which is only second in height to Ok Thalu peak. This location was previously abandoned and forlorn for an extended period of time. It was gradually developed with the goal of becoming a center for religious advancement and a Buddhist place of worship that spreads Tripitaka’s Dharma, serves as a model of righteous practice for monks, cultivates and refines the mind, and strengthens believers’ faith in doing good deeds. It also serves as a symbol for Phatthalung Province.
Wang Sukkhatidham Santinakorn has previously supported the youth in a variety of ways, including the Phatthalung Juvenile Court, military camps, schools, and government agencies; it also provides facilities for the Phatthalung Provincial Probation Office to conduct community service activities with personnel and probationers for approximately three years. Furthermore, the monastery has continually and consistently provided Dharma teachings to students, youths, staff, civil servants from several agencies, and interested individuals.
In 1998, the Forest Department began surveying and recording the establishment and activities of Wang Sukkhatidham Santinakorn Monastery, which resulted in the approval of a project to establish a monk’s residence in the forest area under the Forest Act of 1941. The Phatthalung Provincial Forest Center, the 12th Forest Resource Management Office (Nakhon Si Thammarat), Forest Department, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, certified Wang Sukkhatidham Santinakorn Monastery’s monk’s residence on June 14, 2017, according to Forest Department letter No. TS.1604.32/10794 LV.