Mongkoltepmunee Buddhist Temple

I practically built this Temple, not on my own; but it was a community event. When the Wat, (Thai’s, Loa’s and Cambodian’s call a Buddhist Temple). The structure or building stick out like a sore thumbs. It is practically across the street from the Bensalem Police Department. It sits between the Polish American VFW and the first Elementary school of Bensalem. It is north on 95, get off at the Street Road exit, continue up Street Road to Knights Road, turn right on Knight’s and if you cross By berry; then you went to far.
I am the token White guy at the Temple. There is another white couple who are just friends, I never talk to either one of them. I know all the monks and regulars. I go to the Temple more then I go to visit my Father or brother. For me it is a very relaxing place. My Thai is not as good as it should be But I have been immersed in the Thai culture for over thirty years. I been to Thailand twice, live in a Thai commune for five years, while stationed in Germany.
Will you get the Thai experience? Yes, somewhat; even though the majority of the «Thai» people that go there are friendly and educated, Thai’s are shy by nature. But if you smile to them, they will smile back. If you show an interest and respect in their culture, they will more then happily be willing to show it to you.
I truly love the Thai food that they make there and it is truly better then the Thai restaurants around the Philadelphia area. But be advise, the food here is made for the Thai’s who come to pray. The food is not Americanized, like at the local Thai restaurants do. If you ask a Thai or me, if is it spicy, we will tell you the truth whether it is or not. No one wants you to get sick and have a bad experience. Sunday lunch is open to the public and a small donation of $ 5 or $ 10 would be appreciated. Also Thai’s do not use chopsticks when eating, it is more preferable to use a fork and spoon. I am a big fan of «sticky rice», served in a wicker bowl. But I recommend eating the regular rice, till your stomach get use to it.
Any diary product will counteract the spicy taste in Thai, Loa or Cambodian food.
Women should not ever touch the monk, wear V-​neck or any top that would show their cleavage.
The Monks chant in Bali, not Thai. But usually give sermons is Thai..

Beautiful Thai Temple felt like I was back in Chiang Mai. Celebrations are awesome always meet some nice people. Also meditation classes on Friday and Saturday night are cool to.

Very friendly and open Theravada temple. Been coming here since I was a kid and have watched it bloom from a rented event hall to a full temple mirroring the smaller ones I visited in Thailand. Check out their site for ther Sunday gatherings which are fantastic! So many people bring food and you get to sit an enjoy the variety of tasty goodness from many of the Thai and Lao members of the sangha.

Was able to visit this place many years ago and enjoyed it so much. The food, and the market were so much fun. It was really great to see the beautiful temple. Things were still under construction back then, I am going again this Sun. and can’t wait for the experience. Lovely place, amazing architecture, warm and welcoming people, just a great way to spend a day.

Only Theravadin Buddhist Temple in Philadelphia — and it’s only 10 minutes away from my house! I lucked out.
It’s much more focused at the supporting Thai community, but they’re so welcoming and kind. This is my Sangha.