Wat Phra Yuen Phutthabat Yukhon, or simply "Wat Phra Yuen" as it's known locally, is an ancient temple located within the ancient city of Thung Yang in Laplae District, Uttaradit Province. Situated on a hill near Wat Phra Thaen Sila Asan, it's considered a historically significant religious site in the province. This temple holds importance in terms of religion, archaeology, and traditional beliefs passed down through generations.

Inside the temple is a Chiang Saen-style pavilion built to enshrine a pair of "Buddha footprints", placed on a laterite lotus base approximately 1.5 meters high. These footprints are considered sacred objects revered by the locals and serve as a spiritual center for Buddhists in the area. According to local legend, the site is associated with a past visit by the Buddha, a belief found in important temples along the upper Nan River basin.

Another notable feature of the temple is the important Buddha statue, "Luang Pho Phuttharangsi," a Sukhothai-style bronze Buddha image in the Maravijaya posture. Its beauty and the statue's reverence are evident as it was originally housed in a pavilion. Before being moved to the main chapel for better care, the Buddha image exhibited exquisite craftsmanship in the late Sukhothai style and served as artistic evidence reflecting the flourishing of Buddhist art in the region.

Around the pavilion, remnants of a laterite stupa base in the Sukhothai style were also found. Scholars believe it was part of an ancient religious site from the same period. Although only the base remains, the original structure is still visible, reflecting the distinctive spire-shaped stupa characteristic of Sukhothai art in the upper river basins of Thailand. This temple is therefore valuable both archaeologically and for historical studies.

In terms of tourism, Wat Phra Yuen Phutthabat Yukon is often included as a stopover point with Wat Phra Thaen Sila Asan, as they are located along the same route. It's easily accessible from Uttaradit city, a short travel time, and a popular route for cultural tourists seeking to experience an ancient temple amidst the natural beauty of Laplae District.

• From Uttaradit town center, take Highway 102 (Uttaradit-Si Satchanalai Road) toward Laplae District for about 5 kilometers. The temple is located on a hill on the right-hand side, immediately adjacent to Wat Phra Thaen Sila At.

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid strong heat

• Wear comfortable shoes due to slopes and stone paths

• Dress modestly as it is a sacred religious site

• Bring drinking water, as shaded areas are limited

Admission Fees:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:00 to 17:00.