Wat Ban Rai
It is said that the elephant head is weight 520 tons.
You can feed fish in the lake.
Front the top, you can have a fantastic view on the temple and all around.
This is a statue of Naga with 7 heads.
Statue of Luang Pha Khoon at Wat Ban Rai.
This is a map of how to Dan Khun Tot. It takes about 1 hour from Korat city.
You can do much more than only see that elephant building on the lake. For example, there is a museum dedicated to Luang Phor Khoon.
For more information, you can call here: 08-1828-7616 They have a website at: www.watbaanrai.comUseful Legal Resources for Expats in Thailand
- Usufruct Agreement in Thailand
- Divorce in Thailand: Complete Guide
- Social Security in Thailand for Expats
- Same-Sex Marriage in Thailand
About Luang Pho Koon
Luang Pho Koon Parisuttho was one of Thailand’s most beloved monks. Born in 1923 in Nakhon Ratchasima province, he became famous throughout Thailand for his role in amulet culture and his reputation as a monk with spiritual powers. His amulets – small metal or clay charms blessed during special ceremonies – are still among the most sought-after in the country. He passed away in May 2015 at the age of 91, and Wat Ban Rai, the temple he helped build and develop, became a major pilgrimage site in his memory.
The Main Attraction: Wihan Thep Witthaya Khom
The centrepiece of Wat Ban Rai is the striking Wihan Thep Witthaya Khom – a large pavilion built over a lake, carried on the back of a colossal elephant statue named Airavata. In Hindu mythology, Airavata is the divine white elephant who serves as the mount of Indra, the king of the gods. The enormous elephant head alone is said to weigh 520 tonnes. The entire structure is decorated with approximately 20 million pieces of ceramic tile, creating an intricate mosaic that sparkles in the sunlight. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views across the temple grounds.
Things to Do
Beyond marvelling at the architecture, visitors can feed fish in the lake that surrounds the main pavilion. The grounds also contain a number of smaller shrines, garden sculptures, and buildings with religious iconography blending Buddhist and Hindu traditions. The temple shop sells amulets blessed in the tradition of Luang Pho Koon – a popular purchase for Thai devotees and curious visitors alike.
Visitor Information
Wat Ban Rai is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00. Admission is free, though a small donation is always appreciated. It is located in Dan Khun Thot district of Nakhon Ratchasima province, roughly 80–90 km northwest of Korat city. The temple is well-signposted from the main highway. Modest dress is required – shoulders and knees should be covered when entering the temple buildings.
