As a Thai national, I am fortunate enough to have grown up surrounded by the rich culture of my country. From a young age, I have been mesmerized by the intricate details and beauty of the temples and Buddha images that can be found throughout Thailand. One particular place that has always captured my heart is Sukhothai- home to some of the most stunning and historically important Buddha images in the country.
For those who may not know, Sukhothai was the first kingdom of Siam and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient ruins and temples found here offer a glimpse into Thailand's rich history and culture. But what really makes Sukhothai unique is the incredible collection of Buddha images that stand tall among the ruins. Each one tells a story and has a unique characteristic all its own.
If you have an appreciation for art, history, or religion, then visiting the Buddha images of Sukhothai is an absolute must. In this article, I'll take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful and historically significant Buddha images in the area and explain why they are a must-see for anyone traveling through Thailand. So sit back, grab a cup of tea, and let's explore the best Buddha images in Sukhothai!
Wat Mahatat
Wat Mahatat is one of the most famous temples in Sukhothai and is known for having the tallest standing Buddha image in the ancient city. This standing Buddha, which is almost 14 meters high, is called "Phra Attharot" and is said to be one of the most beautiful Buddha images in the country. The image is said to have been built in the early 14th century and it has been standing tall ever since.
The temple is located in the center of the old city and is surrounded by a moat. The main attraction of the temple, the standing Buddha, is located in the main hall of the temple. The hall is quite large and is filled with several other smaller Buddha images as well.
Wat Mahatat is a great place to visit if you want to see some of the best Buddha images in Sukhothai. The temple is also a great place to learn more about the history and culture of the Sukhothai kingdom.
Wat Si Chum
Wat Si Chum is another temple in the old city of Sukhothai and is known for having the largest seated Buddha image in the ancient city. This image, which is called "Phra Achana", is over 11 meters high and is very impressive to see in person.
The temple is located a bit outside the old city walls and is surrounded by a moat. The temple is not as popular with tourists as some of the other temples in Sukhothai, so it is a great place to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.
One of the most interesting things about Wat Si Chum is that visitors can climb up to the top of the temple and look down at the seated Buddha image below. This gives you a unique perspective on the statue and allows you to appreciate its size and beauty even more.
Wat Phra Pai Luang
Wat Phra Pai Luang is a temple located on the outskirts of the old city of Sukhothai. While it is not as famous as some of the other temples in the area, it is definitely worth a visit if you are interested in seeing some of the best Buddha images in Sukhothai.
The main attraction of the temple is the serene Buddha image located inside the main hall. This image is called "Phra Buddha Sihing" and is said to have been brought to Sukhothai from Sri Lanka. The image is very peaceful and has a calming effect on visitors.
In addition to the Buddha image inside the main hall, Wat Phra Pai Luang also has several other smaller Buddha images and beautiful architecture to admire.
Wat Mahathat
Wat Mahathat is a temple located in the center of the old city of Sukhothai and is known for having some of the most beautifully restored Buddha images in the area. The temple was one of the most important temples in the Sukhothai kingdom and was the location of several important ceremonies and events.
One of the most impressive Buddha images in the temple is the standing Buddha located inside the main hall. This image is called "Phra Ruang Songkhram" and is said to have been built in the early 14th century. The image is very tall and has intricate details that are a testament to the skill of the craftsmen who built it.
Wat Mahathat is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the history and culture of the Sukhothai kingdom. The temple has a museum that displays several artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the kingdom.
Wat Sa Si
Wat Sa Si is a small temple located on an island in the middle of a large pond. The temple is surrounded by lush trees and is a very serene and peaceful place to visit.
The main attraction of the temple is a beautifully crafted Buddha image located inside the main hall. This image is called "Phra Buddha Loha Prasat" and is very unique in that it has several small Buddha images carved into it. The details on the image are intricate and impressive to see up close.
In addition to the main hall, the temple also has several other buildings and statues to explore. The temple is not as popular with tourists as some of the other temples in Sukhothai, so it is a great place to visit if you are looking for a more peaceful and relaxed experience.
Wat Saphan Hin
Wat Saphan Hin is a temple located on a hill outside the old city of Sukhothai. The temple is quite large and has several beautiful structures and Buddha images to admire.
The main attraction of the temple is a large standing Buddha image located on top of the hill. This image, which is called "Phra Attharot", is very impressive and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors to Wat Saphan Hin can also explore several other smaller structures and statues located around the temple grounds. The temple is a popular spot for photographers, as the views of the surrounding countryside are truly breathtaking.
Wat Si Sawai
Wat Si Sawai is a temple located just outside the old city walls of Sukhothai. The temple is one of the oldest temples in the area and is known for having a beautifully crafted reclining Buddha image.
The temple is quite small and is very peaceful and quiet. The reclining Buddha image inside the main hall is very impressive and has intricate details that are a testament to the skill of the craftsmen who built it.
In addition to the reclining Buddha, Wat Si Sawai also has several other smaller Buddha images and beautiful architecture to admire. The temple is a great place to visit if you are looking for a quiet and relaxing experience.
Conclusion
Sukhothai is a great place to visit if you are interested in seeing some of the best Buddha images in Thailand. The temples in the old city are well-preserved and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the Sukhothai kingdom.
Whether you are interested in seeing large standing Buddha images or beautifully crafted reclining Buddha images, there is something for everyone in Sukhothai. Don't miss the chance to explore these breathtaking temples and see some of the best Buddha images in the country.
