‘We are not heartless’: Thai abbot speaks out after Indian YouTuber told to leave temple

UDON THANI – The abbot of a royal temple in Udon Thani has defended the decision to ask an Indian YouTuber to leave after he pitched a tent overnight without permission, saying the temple was willing to help people in need but required visitors to follow its rules.

Phra Ratchasankosol, abbot of Wat Photisomphon and chief monk of Udon Thani province, said the temple closes its gates at 21.00 and anyone wishing to stay overnight must obtain permission from the abbot or an authorised person in advance.

The explanation follows a video posted by Indian YouTuber Banshi, titled “First Bad Experience In Thailand Temple”, which sparked online debate after he pitched a tent beside the temple’s ordination hall and was later asked to leave.

According to the abbot, Banshi had visited several temples seeking a place to stay before arriving at Wat Photisomphon. He pitched his tent without seeking permission from the abbot or temple officials.

When staff found him after the temple’s closing time and asked him to leave, he refused and requested to speak with the abbot. Temple officials then contacted Muang Udon Thani police and tourist police to help mediate. After about an hour of discussion, Banshi packed his belongings and left.

The abbot said the temple was not lacking in compassion and was prepared to assist people facing difficulties where appropriate. However, visitors were expected to respect local rules and behave appropriately, particularly when travelling abroad.

Tourist police officer Pol. Lt. Preeda Misatham said checks confirmed that Banshi had entered Thailand legally on a 60-day tourist visa on 12 September, which expires on 10 November 2026.

Banshi reportedly told officials that a novice monk had allowed him to stay. However, officers found that the novice had no authority to approve overnight stays for outsiders and was not fully aware of the temple’s regulations.

Preeda said Wat Photisomphon, a royal temple, strictly controls access and does not permit overnight stays without approval from an authorised person. The temple has tightened security in the past following thefts on its grounds.

During the discussion, officers suggested that Banshi stay at a nearby budget hotel costing around 300 to 400 baht a night. He said he had no money, prompting officers to advise him to plan his finances before travelling and to follow the rules of places he visits.

Banshi later left the temple. Reports said he went to sleep at a petrol station.

The incident has prompted online debate over budget travel, financial preparation and respect for local customs and regulations, with some commenters saying travellers should not expect places that have not authorised an overnight stay to accommodate them.