“Explore the main chedi with over 30 surrounding stupas, a seven-bay viharn, and a tranquil forest-like setting along the southern cycling route of Si Satchanalai”
Wat Pa Udom Sak is a medium-sized ancient site located outside the southern wall of Si Satchanalai, within the Si Satchanalai Historical Park. The temple is oriented toward the southeast, aligning with the city’s main axis and reflecting cosmological beliefs and urban planning of the Sukhothai period.
Architecturally, the site is distinctive for being primarily constructed with brick, with some laterite elements, indicating construction techniques from the late Sukhothai to early Ayutthaya period. The temple features a seven-bay viharn with a Manila-style roof, which once housed a stucco Buddha image in Mara-Vijaya posture, with a monastic seat (āsana) positioned to the right of the principal image.
Behind the viharn lies the sacred inner zone, enclosed by a boundary wall, containing the main chedi and a group of surrounding stupas. The principal chedi stands on a square base and is believed to be in the lotus-bud (Phum Khao Bin) style, a hallmark of Sukhothai art.
Encircling the main structure are eight satellite stupas positioned at the corners and cardinal directions, each on a square base of approximately 3 meters. This layout reflects Buddhist cosmology, symbolizing Mount Meru at the center with surrounding continents. Additionally, there are around 29 smaller stupa bases, each about 1 meter wide, possibly used as memorial or relic stupas.
Historically, Wat Pa Udom Sak is part of a group of temples located outside the city wall, associated with the Aranyavasi (forest-dwelling monks) who practiced meditation. The name “Udom Sak” may refer to the once-abundant natural environment that supported monastic life. The site was excavated and restored in 1987 (B.E. 2530), revealing its structural layout more clearly.
Today, the temple retains a quiet, secluded, and serene atmosphere, surrounded by coconut groves and farmland. It is ideal for travelers interested in history, archaeology, and spiritual tourism, and is also a key stop along the southern cycling route of Si Satchanalai.
How to Get There
- Bicycle: Ride from the southern gate (Saphan Chan Gate) heading south, passing Wat Pa Krasa. The temple is on the right-hand side along the same route to Wat Sa Pathum.
Travel Tips
- Visit between 08:30 – 10:30 AM or late afternoon for the best light
- Ideal for cycling and photography lovers
- Travel in groups as the area is quite secluded
- Bring water and sun protection
- Combine with other southern-zone temples for a fuller experience
Admission Fee:
- Thai: 20 Baht
- Foreigners: 100 Baht
(Included in Si Satchanalai Historical Park ticket)
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 08:30 – 16:30 PM