Profiles of Sak Yant Monks of Wat Bang Phra

The Sak Yant Monks of Wat Bang Pra In the Western world have reached international fame. While very little is known about the Sak Yant Monks who practice tattooing at Wat Bang Pra. Even among Thais, many are unaware of the specific monks from whom they received their tattoos.

We first visited WBP 20 years ago, and while some things have changed – some monks have left, more visitors have come, and younger Ajarns have emerged – LP Nan still serves about 50 people each day for a 100 Bht offering and a donation the guest deems suitable.

Below, we highlight some of the monks who have contributed to the legacy of WBP since the passing of Head Monk LP Pern.

Founding Figure Luang Phor Phern

The temple’s founding is attributed to Luang Phor Phern, a legendary monk whose life and teachings have left an indelible mark on Thai Buddhism. Luang Phor Phern’s reputation for his wisdom, compassion, and mastery of Sak Yant tattoos drew followers from far and wide, establishing Wat Bang Phra as a hub of spiritual activity.

The Famous Sak Yant Monks of Bangkok's Temple

Monk LP Sam Ang of Wat Bang Phra Temple

LP Sam Ang After LP Pern’s passing, LP Sam Ang became the Head Monk. Although he does not tattoo, he blesses disciples with gold foil blessings in the main viharn. Regardless of where you received your yant at WBP, we recommend visiting him afterwards

Monk LP Ya of Wat Bang Phra Temple

LP Ya sits outside the old room he shared with LP Nan and LP Nueng, where he receives his disciples. His followers are primarily Thai—policemen, gangsters, pimps, gunmen, bouncers, and more. He also acts as a community manager, organizing food and water donations for remote villages and schools. Almost every disciple experiences spiritual possession when receiving his blessings

Monk LP Toy of Wat Bang Phra Temple

LP Toy had his own room, and all his visitors were Thai. He was not specialized in yants, but it was possible to receive one from him. Thai people often sought his advice on life issues or requested rituals. Although he passed away a few years ago, you can pay your respects at a statue outside his former samnak. His nephew tattoos next to the temple and strictly follows his uncle’s guidelines.

Monk LP Nan of Wat Bang Phra Temple

LP Nan is the monk most visitors seek; 99% of blogs and articles focus on him. A few years ago, he transitioned to gun tattoos and now serves up to 50 people daily. While talking is not his strong suit, if you ask nicely and there aren’t too many people waiting, you may even choose your small yant.

Monk LP Paeow of Wat Bang Phra Temple

LP Paeow is especially popular among younger people and foreigners who wish to explore the culture more deeply. He welcomes foreigners and often allows them to skip the waiting line for a chat. Known for tattooing until the last person is served, if you ask nicely, you can also choose your small yant. He left the temple due to health issues and is currently residing in Pitsanulok.

Monk LP Sampan of Wat Bang Phra Temple

LP Sampan A legend in his own right, LP Sampan left the temple to establish a small temple in Singburi. Since then, he has facilitated tattoo donations to help build a school and kindergarten for underprivileged children. He enjoys the company of foreigners and has many international followers. Visit him in Singburi to receive his powerful blessings.

Sak Yant Ajarns from Wat Bang Phra

Ajarns Outside and in the Basement Room Numerous Ajarns are tattooing throughout the area. Some work outside, while others operate in a room next to LP Ting. Ajarn Gai, Ajarn Nuad, Ajarn God, and Ajarn Ben are a few of the names you might encounter. Some are present every day, while others come only on weekends.

They typically charge a little extra, in addition to the 100 Bht offering. Ajarn Room on the First Floor This is where younger Ajarns sit. The room has gained some popularity recently as touts approach foreigners to charge higher prices. We prefer not to mention any specific names.

How to get a Sak Yant Tattoo at Wat Bang Phra

It is still possible to have a wonderful experience if you speak (or take a Thai speaker) along with you and know how to navigate around the touts to find the Temple Masters. It has just become very difficult to do and as recent reviews of peoples experience getting a Sak Yant tattoo at Wat Bang Phra Temple suggest a rare occurrence.

It has become so difficult that those who research well, end up deciding to go to a Sak Yant Ajarn in Bangkok rather than the Temple itself. Sadly this has lead to vast increases in costs as a few of the more famous Sak Yant Masters become more well known.

So what to do?

We have an option at Sak Yant Bangkok for getting a Sak Yant at Wat Bang Phra, with our Service 2 option which you can find details here

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Sak Yant Monks of Wat Bang Phra