Wat Nokor Khmer is a Khmer Buddhist temple located in Bloomington, California, United States,  established on July 10, 2022. It is organized by Koun Khmer Foundation, Inc. under the Nonprofit Religious Corporation Law of California. The temple was founded through the generosity and vision of Rixon Kien and his wife, Elaine Nghiem, who purchased and donated the property necessary for building a temple that would serve as a religious and cultural sanctuary for the Khmer community in the United States. 

They were joined by a group of devoted founding members, including Tuan Son, Trieu Uong, Robert Thach, Khathy Thach, Son Monney, Kien Phol, Tommy Svay, Luong Thach, Francis Kim, Thanh Son, Son Hien, Binh Thach, Thang Son, Khai Lam, Sang Thach, Chau Son, .., and many other generous supporters and volunteers from the Khmer and broader Asian community contributed their time, effort, and resources to make Wat Nokor Khmer a reality.

Together, this team worked tirelessly to transform a vision into reality—creating not only a place for Buddhist worship and meditation, but also a center for cultural education, community events, and intergenerational connection. Since its founding, Wat Nokor Khmer has become a vibrant hub for religious ceremonies, festivals, language classes, and cultural preservation activities.

The temple is guided by the principles of Theravāda Buddhism, the traditional school of Buddhism practiced in Cambodia. Through daily prayers, Dharma talks, almsgiving, and meditation sessions, Wat Nokor Khmer provides spiritual support and moral guidance to Khmer American and others seeking peace and wisdom.

In addition to religious functions, the temple also plays an important role in maintaining and passing on Khmer cultural traditions, including Khmer New Year celebrations, Pchum Ben (Ancestor Day), and Kathina robe offeringos. These festivals are open to the wider community, welcoming people of all backgrounds to learn, engage, and celebrate together.

🏛️ Community Role

Wat Nokor Khmer is a home for the heart. It connects generations of Khmer around the world with their cultural roots and spiritual practice. The temple is a place to learn, reflect, celebrate, and grow—together.

🌟 Mission Statement

Wat Nokor Khmer is dedicated to preserving and promoting Khmer Theravāda Buddhism, spiritual development, and cultural heritage. We put Buddhist Principles into pratice through propgrams that build healthy spririt, mind and body for all. We serve as a sacred space for prayer, meditation, community gatherings, and education, fostering compassion, wisdom, and unity across generations.

Welcome Message from the Founders

“With deep gratitude and compassion, we welcome you to Wat Nokor Khmer. Our temple was founded to serve as a spiritual home for the Khmer community and all who seek peace through Buddhist teachings. It is our heartfelt wish that Wat Nokor Khmer becomes a place where our faith, culture, and community can grow together in harmony.”

— Rixon Kien & Elaine Nghiem, Founders