Lop Buri Prang Khaek, Thailand

Address

Lop Buri Prang Khaek, Tha Hin, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lopburi 15000, Thailand

Diety

Buddha

Introduction

Prang Khaek is the oldest Hindu Monument of Lop Buri and the oldest Khmer-style Hindu Shrine to be found in Thailands central region. A small compound of Khmer remains, it consists of the three brick prangs constructed without adjoining corridors. Prang Khaek was restored by King Narai the Great in the 17th century. There is no statue in the temple. Prang Khaek is Lopburi’s oldest surviving monument. Its exact age is uncertain, but it was likely built by the Khmer as it is stylistically similar to the momuments in Koh Ker, Cambodia. The site comprises three brick towers, partially covered in stucco (a likely later addition) as well as the ruins of a viharn to the east of the tower and a freestanding pavilion to the south. The latter two buildings may have been added during the reign of King Narai the Great (1657-88) who also built a nearby palace and refurbished other monuments in the vicinity. King Narai added a small Vihaan and Brahmin hall, indicating that he wanted to retain a Hindu element at the site during an era. when many preexisting Hindu sanctuaries were incorporated into Buddhist temples. At present, the site is located at the center of a triangular traffic circle which, unfortunately, will likely accelerate decay of the monument.