Wat Sri Pho Chai (Na Haeo District)

Wat Si Pho Chai stands out for its well-preserved ancient architecture, particularly the Ubosot (ordination hall), or "Sim" as it is known in Isan.

Ancient Sim, over 400 years old:
The Sim at Wat Si Pho Chai was built during the 21st Buddhist century (approximately 2090 CE). It resembles Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang, Laos.

It is a rectangular brick and mortar building that blends Lan Xang, Ayutthaya, and Chinese styles.

Notable features include the pediment, the support beams, and the exterior decorations, which are intricately carved in wood, featuring spiraling patterns, scrollwork, naga, and scenes from the Ramayana, and Indra riding his elephant Erawan.

Luang Pho Yai:
The main Buddha image, Luang Pho Yai, is enshrined within the Sim, a Lan Xang-style Buddha image in the Mara-Vijaya posture, revered by the locals for a long time.

Phra Buddha Ong Saen:
The kuti also houses Phra Buddha Ong Saen, another ancient bronze Buddha image, a symbol of the city.

Post by เที่ยวกับณัฐ | Sep 28, 2025