Archaeological Site of Wat Khao Phloi Waen is situated atop Khao Phloi Waen in Ploi Waen Subdistrict, Tha Mai District, Chanthaburi Province. This site holds significant historical, artistic, and cultural value, as well as religious importance. Within the archaeological site are a mandapa, a stupa, and a sacred pond, each with a rich history and spiritual significance.

 

The mandapa is located near the stupa at the summit of the hill. It has a square-based design measuring 4 wa 2 sok in width and rises 7 wa high. Inside the mandapa is a replica of the Buddha’s footprint, constructed in 1928 to replace the original footprint, which was carved from laterite stone and had been damaged, though it is still preserved. The creation of this replica reflects the community’s dedication to maintaining their religious heritage and traditions.

 

The stupa is a round, Lanka-style structure standing 15 meters tall, built in 1836 according to inscriptions on the hill. The inscriptions record that the stupa was constructed on the 711th day of the Chula Sakarat year 1198, the Year of the Monkey. The original stupa, made of brick and stucco, measured 4 wa in width and 6 wa 3 sok in length. During the reign of King Rama V, Phraya Phichai Thabo Sri Ranong Ratchachai, also known as Phraya Chanthaburi, was commanded to enshrine a relic within the stupa, which was named “Rattanakiri Stupa.” The stupa has since been restored, with a base now measuring 6 wa in width and 7 wa 3 sok in length.

 

Additionally, the sacred pond is located in Moo 6, Ban Sakaeo, approximately 5 kilometers from Tha Mai District. This ancient pond is recognized as one of the sacred waters across 18 provinces in Thailand, historically used in royal ceremonies such as coronation rituals from King Rama V through King Rama IX. The Department of Fine Arts, Ministry of Education, registered the pond as a historical site on January 8, 1987, with publication in the Royal Gazette, Vol. 104, Part 18, dated February 1, 1987. The registered area covers approximately 2 ngan 16 square wah.

 

The area around the Archaeological Site of Wat Khao Phloi Waen features black rock known locally as “Khee Ploy,” upon which both the stupa and mandapa are built. The Department of Fine Arts officially registered Wat Khao Phloi Waen as a historical site on June 18, 1987, as published in the Royal Gazette, Vol. 104, Part 143, dated July 28, 1987. The total registered area is approximately 2 rai 90 square wah.

 

The Archaeological Site of Wat Khao Phloi Waen is not only a visually stunning tourist destination with breathtaking views but also a valuable center for learning about history, art, and religion. Visiting this site provides insight into the beliefs and lifestyles of past communities and demonstrates the dedication of its creators to preserving religious heritage. This makes the Archaeological Site of Wat Khao Phloi Waen an essential destination when exploring Chanthaburi Province.