Thailand is a land of remarkable natural beauty, unique cultural traditions, and rich history. Among the many historical sites, the Wat Phra That Phanom ruins stand out as an essential part of Thailand’s cultural heritage. Located in Nakhon Phanom province, the ruins are a sacred pilgrimage site for many Buddhists and an essential destination for travelers seeking to explore Thailand’s historical past.
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History of Wat Phra That Phanom
The Wat Phra That Phanom ruins date back to the 9th century, making them one of the oldest temples in Thailand. The temple is believed to have been built by King Lithai of the Khmer Empire during the reign of Jayavarman II. It was initially constructed as a Mahayana Buddhist temple but was later converted to Theravada Buddhism in the 13th century.
The temple has undergone several renovations throughout its history, with the most significant ones taking place during the reign of King Rama III in the 19th century. The temple complex includes a massive chedi, several chapels, and a museum that showcases artifacts and relics from the temple’s past.
Exploring Wat Phra That Phanom
The Wat Phra That Phanom complex covers an area of over 30 hectares and is surrounded by a beautiful garden that makes it a serene and peaceful place to visit. The main attraction of the temple is the towering chedi, which stands at 57 meters tall and is covered in gold leaf. The chedi is said to enshrine a relic of the Buddha’s breastbone, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world.
Inside the temple complex, visitors can explore several chapels that house numerous Buddha statues and intricate wall murals depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life. Visitors can also light incense sticks and offer prayers to the Buddha in a serene and peaceful environment.
The temple complex also includes a museum that displays a collection of artifacts and relics from the temple’s past. The museum showcases ancient Buddha images, ceramics, and other objects that highlight the temple’s rich history.
Visiting Wat Phra That Phanom
Wat Phra That Phanom is open to visitors every day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission to the temple is free, but visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately and behave respectfully while inside the temple complex. Visitors should also remove their shoes before entering the chapels and avoid taking photographs of Buddha statues or religious ceremonies.
Getting to Wat Phra That Phanom
The Wat Phra That Phanom ruins are located in Nakhon Phanom province, about 700 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. The easiest way to get to the temple is by flying to Nakhon Phanom Airport and then taking a taxi or tuk-tuk there. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus or train from Bangkok to Nakhon Phanom and then take a taxi or tuk-tuk to the temple.
Conclusion
The Wat Phra That Phanom ruins are a unique and fascinating part of Thailand’s cultural heritage. They offer visitors a glimpse into Thailand’s rich history and provide a peaceful and serene environment to explore and learn about the Buddhist faith. Whether you’re a history buff, a religious pilgrim, or a curious traveler, the Wat Phra That Phanom ruins are a must-see destination in Thailand.
