Description
Wat Ban Bon (วัดบ้านบอน) is a nice example of an old, rural Isaan temple in Sakon Nakhon. The main structure is an old pavilion with a cement bottom floor and an upper floor made with inexpensive wood. That is, at the time of its construction the wood was inexpensive, as all Thai wood has increased in price a lot over the past decade.
The wooden doors of the bottom cement floor are flanked by two murals depicting the life and death of the Buddha. The upper wooden floor is where local villagers go to listen to sermons and receive blessings. A main Buddha image with smaller Buddha figurines is placed at the front of the room, with drapes placed behind to make the presentation more attractive.
Twenty years ago, one would see many such temple pavilions throughout Sakon Nakhon and Northeastern Thailand (Isaan). However, these old cement/wood pavilions (Viharn) are becoming rare, as increased community wealth has enabled many rural Isaan temples to undergo complete renovation with new buildings, landscaping, large Buddhist statues, etc.
Wat Ban Bon is located in Tambon Huai Yai, about 20 minutes from Sakon Nakhon city. You will pass the temple, if you are on your way to the Kiang Din Coffee Bar (which as of Oct. 2022 is closed for an unknown duration) or Wat Somyot Charoen Tham.
