Land Dispute at Khao To Temple Sparks Community Protest in Surin

According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand on August 21, 2026, a land dispute has emerged at Khao To Temple in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province. Local residents have gathered to protest after the heirs of a deceased former landowner attempted to reclaim a 21-rai plot of land located south of the temple.

Villagers state that the original owner sold the land to an acquaintance, who subsequently sold it to the temple in 1998 for 180,000 baht. The community claims they collectively raised funds through traditional merit-making ceremonies, such as Kathin and Pha Pa, to pay for the land over time. The current conflict arose when the heirs of the original owner challenged the temple's ownership, asserting that the land remains their father's property.

For residents and visitors, this situation highlights the complexities of land tenure in rural Thailand, particularly regarding agricultural land reform (S.P.K.) plots. While the temple has occupied the land for 28 years, the legal status of the transfer remains a point of contention. The heirs have not yet provided a public statement regarding their claim. As the situation develops, it remains to be confirmed how local authorities will mediate the dispute and whether the temple’s long-standing possession will be legally upheld against the heirs' claims.