Wat Phra That Phanom
Northeastern Thailand Region
Wat Phra That Phanom is a significant Buddhist temple located in the That Phanom District of Nakhon Phanom Province, near the Laos border in Thailand's Isan region. It is renowned for enshrining the Phra Uranghathat, believed to be the Buddha's breast bones, making it a major pilgrimage site for Theravada Buddhists. The temple's architecture is a unique blend of Dvaravati, Khmer, and Cham styles, originally constructed before the 12th century with a Khmer design, later renovated to reflect Lao influences. The 53-meter tall square pagoda has undergone several restorations, notably after a devastating collapse in 1975 caused by an earthquake and heavy rains, with the current structure completed in 1979. The temple hosts an annual week-long festival that draws thousands of visitors who come to honor the sacred relics. Inside, visitors can also find traditional Thai paintings illustrating proverbs, enriching the cultural experience. The temple's preservation is supported by the Thai Fine Arts Department and includes a protected area known as the 'Buddha Area'. Wat Phra That Phanom remains an essential spiritual and cultural landmark, inspiring temple designs across the region and serving as a popular pilgrimage destination especially for those born in the year of the Monkey according to Thai folk Buddhism.
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Tip: The best time to visit Wat Phra That Phanom is during its annual week-long festival, which attracts large pilgrimages and offers a vibrant cultural experience. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets or arrange visits in advance during this period due to high attendance. Modest dress is recommended as it is a sacred religious site. Discounts may be available for groups or pilgrims. Arriving early in the day can help avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit.
Interesting facts
- •The temple is believed to contain the Buddha's breast bones, making it one of the most sacred Theravada Buddhist sites in Thailand.
- •The pagoda's architecture uniquely blends Dvaravati, Khmer, and Cham art styles.
- •After its collapse in 1975, the pagoda was rebuilt with a 110-kilogram gold spire and valuable items from Laos, including a golden seven-tiered umbrella.
- •Wat Phra That Phanom is a popular pilgrimage site especially for those born in the year of the Monkey in Thai folk Buddhism.
- •The temple inspired architectural designs of other nearby temples in the region.
History
According to the That Phanom Chronicle, the original stupa was constructed shortly after the Buddha's passing by five Mon kings, though archaeological evidence dates the earliest structure to the 7th or 8th century CE.
Local legend recounts that the Buddha instructed his disciple Mahakasyapa to bring his breast bones to Phu Kampra to preserve Buddhism, leading to the temple's founding around 525 BCE.
The pagoda was initially built in a Khmer style before the 12th century, later remodeled with Lao architectural influences.
In 1690, it was restored and raised, with further height added in 1940.
Registered as an ancient monument in 1935, the pagoda collapsed in 1975 due to an earthquake and heavy rain but was rebuilt by 1979 with royal patronage and contributions from Thai and Laotian devotees.
Place Guide
Phra That Phanom PagodaPre-12th century
The central 53-meter tall square pagoda enshrining the Buddha's breast bones, showcasing a blend of Khmer and Lao architectural styles with influences from Dvaravati and Cham art.
Traditional Thai Proverbs Paintings
A collection of paintings within the temple illustrating traditional Thai proverbs, enriching visitors' cultural understanding.
Contact
Phone: 094 543 5888
