Wat Ban Rai

Wat Ban Rai is a prominent Buddhist temple located in Kut Phiman Subdistrict, Dan Khun Thot District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. Widely known as the temple of revered monk Luang Por Khun Parisuttho, it is notable for the Viharn Thep Wittayakhom, an elephant-shaped mosaic shrine set in a lake. The temple complex combines religious devotion, elaborate ceramic art, and museum displays dedicated to the monk's life and teachings.

Visitors can expect a large temple compound centered on a lake with the distinctive elephant-shaped Viharn Thep Wittayakhom decorated with colorful ceramic mosaics. The interior features murals, sculptures and exhibitions about Buddhism and the life of Luang Por Khun. Surrounding areas include prayer halls, statues, landscaped grounds, bridges over the lake, and souvenir and merit-making areas. The setting is open and spacious with walkways connecting the main shrine to other buildings.

Wat Ban Rai is historically associated with Luang Por Khun Parisuttho (1923-2015), one of Thailand's most revered monks, who served as abbot and developed the temple into a major religious center. The Viharn Thep Wittayakhom was constructed as a tribute to his teachings and to serve as a center for Buddhist education, combining traditional beliefs with artistic mosaic craftsmanship.

The temple is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site and cultural landmark in Nakhon Ratchasima, reflecting Isan Buddhist devotion and respect for Luang Por Khun. It serves as a place for merit-making, religious ceremonies, and learning Buddhist principles through art and exhibitions, attracting devotees and visitors from across Thailand.