Wat Sri Montha is an important ancient temple in Mukdahan Province with outstanding historical and local Isan artistic value. It has been registered as a national ancient monument by the Fine Arts Department due to its well-preserved elements of the traditional Isan “sim” (ordination hall) and “Hup Taem” mural paintings.The sim of the temple is a small ordination hall built in traditional Isan architectural style, using a combination of wood and masonry. The building layout is simple and uncluttered, with a low multi-tiered roof in the local style. It is decorated with stucco elements such as chofa, bai raka, and hang hong, crafted by local artisans. The overall design is modest yet graceful, reflecting a folk Buddhist concept that emphasizes faith and spirituality over grandeur.

The most important highlight of the temple is the “Hup Taem” mural paintings, located on the exterior walls of the sim. This is a distinctive feature of Isan–Lan Xang art, differing from Central Thai mural paintings that are usually found inside temple buildings. These paintings serve both as religious teachings and cultural storytelling.The murals depict Buddhist narratives such as Jataka tales, the Vessantara Jataka, and the life of the Buddha, as well as local Isan folk stories reflecting real historical lifestyles. Scenes include weaving, farming, travel, traditional clothing, and beliefs about karma, merit, and the afterlife according to local cosmology.

Artistically, the murals are characterized by simple lines and a non-realistic style, focusing on narrative storytelling rather than proportion or realism. They use natural pigments such as red, black, yellow, and white, giving the artwork a distinctive folk aesthetic that is easy to understand and culturally expressive.Overall, Wat Sri Montha is not only a place of worship but also an important cultural learning center of lower Isan. It serves as living evidence of local beliefs, ways of life, and traditional wisdom, preserving significant historical and artistic value to the present day.