Hor Kham Luang is located within Wat Phiphat Mongkhon, Thung Saliem Subdistrict, Thung Saliem District, Sukhothai Province. Covering an area of approximately 1 rai and 50 square wah, it is one of the most outstanding teakwood architectural structures in Northern Thailand. Built in the Lanna Thai style, it reflects the traditional beauty and way of life of Northern Thai people, following the ancient design of the royal residences in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phrae, Nan, Chiang Tung, and Lampang. The hall features a total of 99 pillars, a two-tiered floor, and a roof covered with Bodhi-leaf-shaped tiles, giving the building a majestic and distinctive appearance. It is considered the largest traditional Thai wooden hall in the lower northern region and symbolizes the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient Lanna architecture.

 

Construction of Hor Kham Luang began on February 1, 2006, with Phra Detch Phra Khun Phra Thammapanyaporn presiding over the raising of the main pillar. The project was completed with the permission of Somdet Phra Maha Rajamangkalacharn, who named the hall “Suwanna Hor Kham Luang, Somdet Phra Maha Rajamangkalacharn.” The hall was built as a tribute to the venerable monk Somdet Phra Maha Rajamangkalacharn, in recognition of his kindness and support for Wat Phiphat Mongkhon and the monastic community, and in celebration of his 82nd birthday on August 26, 2007.

 

Hor Kham Luang is not only an architectural marvel but also an important religious and cultural site. Inside, it houses statues of revered monks, including Phra Mongkol Thepmuni (Luang Phor Sod of Wat Paknam), who is the primary figure enshrined here, as well as other famous spiritual masters such as Luang Pu Thuat, Luang Pho Ngern, Luang Pu Suk, Luang Phor Sod, Somdet Phutthachan (Toh) Phrommarangsi, Luang Pu Waen, Kru Ba Sri Wichai, and Luang Pu Kaew. These statues inspire faith among visitors and make the hall a spiritual center for the community and devotees of these venerable monks.

 

Geographically, Wat Phiphat Mongkhon is situated approximately three kilometers from the Thung Saliem District Office. The surrounding area is peaceful and serene, making it ideal for sightseeing and religious activities. Economically and socially, the hall attracts both Thai and international tourists, stimulating the local economy and promoting the preservation of Lanna culture and ancient teakwood architecture.

 

The design and structure of Hor Kham Luang reflect meticulous attention to detail in Lanna architecture. The choice of teakwood, the arrangement of 99 pillars, the two-tiered floor, the Bodhi-leaf-shaped roof tiles, and the overall proportions of the building ensure its durability and timeless beauty. The hall also serves as an educational site for future generations to learn about Lanna architecture, decoration, and spatial arrangement.

 

Today, Hor Kham Luang is one of the most important cultural tourism destinations in Thung Saliem District. Visitors can admire the exquisite Lanna craftsmanship, pay respects to the venerable monks, and learn about local history simultaneously. It contributes to the community’s religious, cultural, and economic value and inspires visitors to understand and preserve Thailand’s cultural heritage.

 

Hor Kham Luang at Wat Phiphat Mongkhon is not merely a place to enshrine monk statues; it is a cultural and spiritual center for the community. It exemplifies the harmonious integration of art, architecture, and devotion while preserving the unique Lanna identity for future generations to study and appreciate.