Wat Phra Bat Ming Mueang Worawihan is located along Charoen Mueang Road, near the Phrae Provincial Hall. The temple was officially established in 1955 (B.E. 2498) through the unification of two neighboring ancient temples: Wat Phra Bat, a forest (Aranyawasi) monastery associated with the Buddha’s footprint, and Wat Ming Mueang, a town (Khamawasi) monastery that served as the royal temple of the rulers of Phrae. The merger symbolized unity within the city and led to its elevation as a royal monastery.

Phra Chao Kosai (Phra Phuttha Kosai Sirichai Maha Sakyamuni):

The temple enshrines Phra Phuttha Kosai Sirichai Maha Sakyamuni, affectionately known as Phra Chao Kosai, the most revered Buddha image of Phrae Province. Crafted in the Chiang Saen artistic style and seated in the subduing Mara posture, the image bears similarities to Phra Phutthachinnarat. Its name signifies “the Exalted One of Phrae”, and it has long served as the spiritual anchor of the city.

Ming Mueang Chedi and the Buddha’s Footprint Replica:

Within the temple stands Ming Mueang Chedi, an ancient and sacred stupa of Phrae. Inside is enshrined a replica of the Buddha’s footprint, set upon a granite pedestal. Locals believe this sacred symbol protects the city and brings peace, prosperity, and harmony to the community.

Historical and Ceremonial Significance:

Historically, Wat Ming Mueang (former) was the venue for the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony (Thuen Nam Phra Phiphat Sattaya) performed by the ruler of Phrae and royal officials. This underscores the temple’s role as a state temple and political–spiritual center of the former Phrae Kingdom.

Education, Culture, and Literary Heritage:

The temple has long been a center of monastic education, housing an ordination hall and a Buddhist Scripture School whose architecture harmonizes with the traditional urban community. Notably, the temple is also home to the Yakob Memorial Foundation, established in honor of Yakob (Choti Phraephan), a prominent Thai author and the last descendant of the ruling family of Phrae, reflecting the temple’s deep connection to the city’s literary and cultural heritage.

• By Car: Easily accessible via Charoen Mueang Road, a main thoroughfare in Phrae. Spacious parking is available within the temple grounds.

• Linked Walking Route: Park at the temple and walk across to Khum Chao Luang Phrae and Nari Rat School, a historic pink colonial-style building, for a complete Old Town experience.

• Must-See: Pay respect to Phra Chao Kosai and visit Ming Mueang Chedi with its sacred Buddha footprint replica.

• Best Time to Visit: Morning hours offer a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for merit-making and photography.

• Photography Tips: The ordination hall façade and Ming Mueang Chedi provide excellent natural light and detailed wooden architecture.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open daily: 08:00 – 17:00