Wat Chang Lom is a significant historical site located within the city walls of Si Satchanalai Historical Park in Si Satchanalai District, Sukhothai Province. The temple is situated on the plain at the foot of Phanom Phloeng Hill to the south, aligned with Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo, making it part of a cluster of ancient sites that reflect the cultural and architectural prosperity of Si Satchanalai during the Sukhothai period. The temple's most notable feature is its main chedi in the Lanna-style, positioned on a square-shaped base known as a pratiksin. The first tier is adorned with full-bodied stucco elephants, totaling 39 figures surrounding all four sides of the base. The corner elephants are larger and decorated with intricate stucco patterns on their necks and ankles. The second tier features niches containing Buddha images in the Maravijaya posture, accompanied by stucco Bodhi tree sculptures behind them, numbering 17 in total, demonstrating the meticulous artistry of the Sukhothai era.

 

Scholars believe that Wat Chang Lom corresponds to the temple mentioned in Inscription No. 1, which records the excavation and enshrinement of a relic within Si Satchanalai city, dating the construction approximately between 1828–1831 BE. This makes Wat Chang Lom not only an important religious site but also a historical landmark, serving as a spiritual and communal center in the past and reflecting the devotion to Buddhism during the Sukhothai period.

 

The temple's architectural layout is both intricate and elegant. The main Lanna-style chedi sits within a square-shaped enclosure with 56 gateways. The front and rear gates serve as entrances and are constructed with laterite walls, featuring beautifully graduated archways. Side gates are built with laterite bricks but remain sealed. The main chedi rests on multiple pratiksin tiers, with stairways leading to the upper levels. Around the base, full-bodied stucco elephants are displayed on all sides, nine on each side except for the stairway side, which has eight. The corner elephants are larger, elaborately decorated with stucco designs, and between the elephants, laterite lamp pillars are placed at intervals. In front of each elephant, a lotus bud-shaped stucco ornament is positioned. Although many stucco elephants have deteriorated over time, their original grandeur and artistry are still evident, particularly the full-bodied figures that stand separately from the walls, matching or exceeding the size of real elephants.

 

Above the pratiksin base, two-tiered stairways lead to the chedi terrace, adorned with 20 niches containing Buddha images in the Maravijaya posture. Most of these have deteriorated, with only a few remaining intact. Above the bell-shaped stupa, a multi-tiered pedestal known as a kan chat is decorated with 17 low-relief stucco images of disciples in graceful poses, showcasing the refined artistry of the Sukhothai period. In addition to the main chedi, Wat Chang Lom features a large vihara in front of the chedi, two smaller viharas, and two subsidiary stupas, creating a complete temple complex that served as a religious and cultural center.

 

Wat Chang Lom is not only a religious site but also a testament to the artistry and architecture of the Sukhothai era, reflecting the lifestyle, beliefs, and devotion of the community in the past. Visiting the temple offers insight into historical craftsmanship and architectural beauty, allowing visitors to appreciate the cultural heritage that has endured for centuries.

 

For history, art, and culture enthusiasts, Wat Chang Lom in Si Satchanalai Historical Park is a must-visit destination. Beyond the majestic chedi and stucco elephants, its location at the foot of Phanom Phloeng Hill provides a serene and shaded environment, ideal for study and contemplation. The temple also stands out among other historical sites in the park for its unique Sukhothai-style architecture and stucco sculptures, maintaining its significance as one of Si Satchanalai’s most important and fascinating ancient monuments.