Wat Tha Thanon (Wat Wang Tao Mo)

History & Significance

Originally known as Wat Wang Tao Mo, Wat Tha Thanon is deeply entwined with the history of Uttaradit. The temple's primary sacred icon is Luang Pho Phet, a bronze Buddha image in the Chiang Saen Singh 1 style depicting the Buddha in the Mara Vijaya attitude seated in a diamond lotus position with a lap width of 32 inches. In 1893 (B.E. 2436), Luang Pho Douang, the abbot of Wat Mon Mai, discovered the image protruding from a large termite mound near Wat Phai Lom in Thung Yang. Recognizing its beauty and value, it was initially taken to Wat Mon Mai before being relocated to Wat Wang Tao Mo for better protection and public worship.

In 1900 (R.S. 119 / B.E. 2443), King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) selected Luang Pho Phet to be relocated to Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok, alongside other notable historic Buddha images from around the kingdom. In 1910 (R.S. 129 / B.E. 2453), King Rama V granted permission to return Luang Pho Phet to Wat Tha Thanon following petitions from local residents. In 1930, a dedicated viharn was constructed to enshrine Luang Pho Phet north of the main ordination hall. Sacred materials from this historic site were also used by King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) in the creation of Phra Somdej Chitralada amulets.

Highlights & What to See

• Luang Pho Phet: The sacred Chiang Saen Singh 1 bronze Buddha image enshrined in the viharn located on the north side of the main ubosot.
• Western-Style Pali School Building: Built in 1931 (B.E. 2474), this elegant structure features classic Western architecture and served as a scripture and Pali language school for monks and novices.
• Ubosot Murals: The main ordination hall contains fine mural paintings that are widely regarded as among the most beautiful in Uttaradit Province.

Visitor Information

Wat Tha Thanon is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00. Admission is free. Facilities available on site include parking spaces and restrooms. The annual Luang Pho Phet worship fair is held every year during the middle of the fourth lunar month.

How to Get There

The temple is conveniently situated on Kasemrat Road, Tha It Subdistrict, directly opposite the Uttaradit Railway Station along the Nan River in Mueang Uttaradit District.