Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng, Thailand

Address

Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng, Thailand

Nong O, Si Satchanalai District,

Sukhothai 64190, Thailand

Moolavar

Buddha

Introduction

The Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng is a 13^th century Buddha temple located near the Yom river in the central zone of the Si Satchanalai Historical Park. The temple is located on top of a hill surrounded by forest, overlooking part of the ancient town. A stairway of 144 steps made of laterite blocks leads to the top of the hill. The temple is mentioned in ancient chronicles. According to these chronicles a hermit told a local chief that Khao Phanom Phloeng hill was to be used for fire ceremonies. It is this chronicle the temple derives its name from; Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng translates to “holy fire mountain temple”.

Puranic Significance

The temple’s most important structure is the principal Ceylonese style chedi. The circular stupa made of blocks of laterite is overgrown with vegetation. Standing on a high square base and a number of receding circular tiers is a relatively small bell topped with an amalaka, a stone disc. The spire has collapsed. Little is left of the ubosot but the pillars that once supported the roof. Seated on a pedestal to the back of the ordination hall is a large laterite Buddha image covered with a layer of plaster. The image in the “Subduing Mara” or “Calling the Earth to witness” posture is wearing a saffron robe.

A small well preserved mandapa locally known as the Chao Mae La Ong Sam Lee shrine is the only structure that is not dedicated to the Buddha. To this day a local Goddess named Chao Mae La Ong Sam Lee is worshipped here. Inside the mandapa are several small images of the Goddess and a number of very colorful dresses put there by present day devotees. The laterite structure with a roof shaped like a pointed arch stands on a high, square base. A stairway leads to its arched entrance. On the grounds are the remains of several subordinate chedis, including one standing on a base of two square tiers of diminishing size.