“Luang Pho Pukayaporn Manisri Pathum: the world’s largest dressed Buddha statue, 7 meters tall Phra That Chom Sin: an ancient Lanna-style stupa on a hill with 69 naga steps”
Wat Phra That Chom Sin is an ancient temple over a hundred years old, located in Ban Tham Forest Park, Dok Kham Tai, Phayao. The temple holds great historical and religious significance and is considered one of the sacred sites of northern Thailand. Legend has it that the site was once where the Buddha gave strands of his hair to two repentant giants observing the Five Precepts. These relics were enshrined in a small stupa, which later became Phra That Chom Sin, a place for keeping Buddha’s relics.
Upon entering the temple, visitors will find a peaceful and serene atmosphere, perfect for meditation, especially at sunrise when the panoramic view of Dok Kham Tai and surrounding areas is most striking. The temple sits atop a hill in Ban Tham Forest Park, offering a breathtaking view of mountains and dense forests.
Architecture and Sacred Objects
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Lanna-Style Ubosot (Ordination Hall)
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Built in 1995 (B.E. 2538)
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Adorned with intricate wood carvings and gold decorations
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Houses the principal Buddha image in the meditation posture, 5 meters wide at the lap
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Mural Paintings: Illustrate Buddhist stories, including Mahajanaka and Vessantara Jataka, as well as scenes of traditional local life and children’s games
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Phra That Chom Sin
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Ancient Lanna-style stupa on a hill
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69 naga steps lead up to the stupa, 20 meters high, 8 meters wide at the base
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Believed to enshrine Buddha’s relics
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Offers panoramic views of Dok Kham Tai and surrounding areas
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Luang Pho Pukayaporn Manisri Pathum
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Dressed Buddha statue in the Mara Vichai posture
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The largest dressed Buddha statue in the world
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Height 7 meters, lap width_ 5.5 meters
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Decorated with ceramic and precious gems
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108 Buddha Statues
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Arranged along the pathways and surrounding areas
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Represent different forms and Buddhist teachings
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Ong Chao Phu Lan Chang Shrine
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A sacred place long respected by local people
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Surrounding Atmosphere
The temple is surrounded by lush, peaceful nature. Visitors can explore the Ban Tham Arboretum, home to rare plant species, and the Nam Ok Hu underground spring, which offers refreshing water and relaxation.
How to Get There
- Wat Phra That Chom Sin is about 15 km from Dok Kham Tai town. Take Route 1251 toward Chiang Muan, turn onto the road beside the gas station, pass Wat Suwannakuha, and continue a short distance to reach the temple.
Travel Tips
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Dress Code: Wear modest clothing; avoid shorts and sandals in sacred areas
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Maintain Silence: Respect the peaceful atmosphere and avoid disturbing activities
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Offerings and Worship: Pay respect to Luang Pho Pukayaporn Manisri Pathum and Phra That Chom Sin with sincerity
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Prepare for the Climb: Wear suitable shoes and be physically ready for the hill and naga steps
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Activities: Meditate or visit the Ban Tham Arboretum
Admission Fee:
- Free of charge
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 06:00 – 18:00 (Approximate)