Just a few steps from Wat Luang lies Wat Phong Sunan, rarely mentioned in Thailand guidebooks. Yet, it's a fascinating place, if only for its long, reclining golden Buddha. You can lean back over the temple walls to admire it. Upon arrival, you'll find yourself in front of a veranda adorned with golden finials. Opposite is the Wihaan (main hall) with its staircase flanked by two Nagas (spirits). At the far end of the hall hang Buddha statues, while garlands of banknotes drape from the ceiling. Behind the main hall stands a golden chedi, surrounded by statues. To the right is another building with vibrant frescoes. But it's undoubtedly the peaceful, smiling reclining Buddha, facing this building, that truly captures your attention. Although relatively new, the temple is rich in decorations and statues. And since it's on the way from Wat Luang to Wat Phra Non, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (another temple in Thailand), it would be a shame to miss Wat Phong Sunan. Especially because the head monk likes to speak English with passing tourists.

Free entry. The temple is open to the public from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.

I recommend staying in this area of ​​Phrae, or at least in the immediate vicinity, so that Wat Phong Sunan is just a short walk away. More and more hotels and guesthouses in Phrae are offering bicycles to their guests.

Wat Pong Sunan is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), take off your shoes when entering the building, be quiet, do not hug or kiss, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, do not smoke.

How to get there

How do I get to Wat Phong Sunan? I recommend staying in Phrae or at least in the immediate vicinity, so that Wat Phong Sunan is just a short walk away. More and more hotels and guesthouses in Phrae are offering bicycles to their guests.