Located in the Li district of Lamphun province, along the scenic Route 106, Wat Phraputthabat Pha Nam is one of the region's most important temples. It is also a popular spot for watching the sunrise, which is often shrouded in mist during the winter months (November to March). The temple was abandoned for nearly 300 years before being restored. Visitors are greeted by a 15-meter-high statue of Kruba Abhichai, a disciple of Kruba Chao Srivijaya. The word "Kruba," primarily used in northern Thailand, means master or teacher and is usually worn by renowned monks. The temple complex comprises two sections: In the valley below is the large statue of Kruba Abhichai Khawpbee, and in the temple behind it is the glass coffin containing his gold-covered mummy. The mummy's clothing is changed annually on March 3rd in a grand ceremony. The other section, located at the top of the mountain, consists of two shrines connected by a bridge. One temple houses the golden relic, the other the white one (I don't have more precise information about this). Up there is also a reclining Buddha in the Burmese style, which can be reached either via a Naga staircase at the foot of the lower temple section or via the road. The road is said to be narrow and difficult to navigate. At least, that's what I was told, but I didn't verify it myself as I took the stairs. Besides the breathtaking sunrise, the view from up there over the valley is truly magnificent!

Free admission. Open from 6 a.m. (sunrise) until 6 p.m.

It appears that a songthaew from Lamphun passes directly by the temple, but traveling by private vehicle is easier, as the distance between the city and the temple is still a hundred kilometers. For those wishing to stay overnight in the area, there are several hotels, such as the Baan Pailyn Resort, located approximately six kilometers from the temple.

Wat Phra Putthabat Pha Nam is a temple. When visiting a temple in Thailand, there are some rules to observe: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), remove shoes upon entering the building, be quiet, no hugging or kissing, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, and do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to Wat Phra Putthabat Pha Nam? It seems there's a songthaew from Lamphun that goes directly past the temple. However, traveling by car is easier, as the distance between the city and the temple is still about 100 kilometers. For those who want to stay overnight in the area, there are several hotels, such as the Baan Pailyn Resort, about 6 km from the temple.