Wat Uposatharam (Wat Bot)

History & Significance

Established in 1781, Wat Uposatharam (originally named Wat Bot Manorom) is a deeply revered temple in Uthai Thani. It received its Wisungkhamsima (consecration) in 1882 and was officially registered as a national ancient monument in 1993. The temple holds great historical significance, having welcomed King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) during his royal tour of the northern provinces in 1906.

Highlights & What to See

The temple grounds feature several remarkable structures and artistic treasures:

• The Ubosot (Ordination Hall): A brick-and-mortar structure housing five Sukhothai-style Buddha images in the Mara Vichaya posture on a single pedestal. The walls are adorned with beautiful murals from the late reign of King Rama III, depicting the life of Buddha from birth to Nirvana.
• The Viharn (Image Hall): Features a pediment depicting Indra riding the Erawan elephant. The exterior walls display murals of Buddha's cremation and early Rattanakosin local life. Inside, you will find a standing Buddha image in the posture of forbidding relatives (Pang Ham Yat) under a five-tiered umbrella, flanked by two standing Buddha images carved from sandalwood.
• The Octagonal Mandapa: Built in 1899 by Luang Phitak Phasa to dedicate to the former abbot, Phra Sunthornmuni (Chan). This two-story building features Western colonial architecture, an external spiral staircase, and exterior stucco depicting a standing Buddha among swans and storks.
• The Three-Era Chedis: Located behind the Viharn, these three distinct chedis stand in a row: an Ayutthaya bell-shaped chedi, a Rattanakosin twelve-indented corner chedi, and a mixed Ayutthaya-Rattanakosin square bell-shaped chedi.
• The Floating Raft (Phae Bot Nam): A historic floating ordination hall raft built to welcome King Rama V during his 1906 visit.

Visitor Information

The temple is open daily from 08:00 to 18:00. Admission is free. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees when entering the sacred buildings.

How to Get There

Located at 34 Moo 1, Tambon Tha Pho, Mueang Uthai Thani District, Uthai Thani Province. It sits directly on the banks of the Sakae Krang River, easily accessible by car with parking available on-site.