Wat Phra Borommathat Thung Yang

History & Significance

Wat Phra Borommathat Thung Yang, formerly known as Wat Mahathat, is a highly revered ancient temple located in the heart of Thung Yang Subdistrict, Laplae District, Uttaradit Province. The temple houses the Phra Maha That, the sacred relic stupa of the ancient town of Thung Yang, which has been continuously inhabited since before the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom. According to local legends, including the Panchaphutthaphayakon and the legend of Phra Thaen Sila At, the Lord Buddha visited this area (historically known as Thung Yantinakhon) along with 500 Arahants. The temple is also famous for its annual "Atthami Bucha" festival, a unique tradition held on the 8th day of the waning moon of the 6th lunar month, which features a grand theatrical reenactment of the Buddha's royal cremation ceremony.

Highlights & What to See

• Phra Borommathat Thung Yang: Located behind the main assembly hall, this ancient circular Sri Lankan-style chedi houses sacred Buddha relics. It stands on a three-tiered square base, with small subordinate chedis decorating the four corners of the bottom base, and niches on the four sides of the third tier.
• Lanna-Style Viharn: The main assembly hall features a classic Lanna architectural style with a three-tiered overlapping roof. Inside, it houses the main Buddha image named "Luang Pho Prathan Thao," a sacred Chiang Saen-style Buddha image in the Mara Vijaya posture.
• Ancient Murals: The interior walls of the viharn are decorated with beautiful, historic murals depicting the traditional Thai folktale of Sang Thong.

Visitor Information

Wat Phra Borommathat Thung Yang is open to visitors daily from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM. Admission is free. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, in accordance with temple etiquette.

How to Get There

The temple is situated at Moo 3, Ban Thung Yang, Thung Yang Subdistrict, Laplae District, Uttaradit Province. It is easily accessible by car, and parking facilities are available on-site for visitors.