Wat Thep Prasat, Phichit Province is another significant religious and tourist landmark, widely revered by Buddhists and visited by travelers who wish to witness the grandeur and sacredness of its giant Buddha image. This magnificent statue has become a symbolic landmark of Taphan Hin District. The Buddha image is officially named Phra Phuttha Ketmongkhon, but locals affectionately call it Luang Pho Yai or Luang Pho To Taphan Hin. The name was graciously bestowed by His Majesty King Rama IX, which adds to its spiritual importance and auspiciousness.

 

Phra Phuttha Ketmongkhon is enshrined at Wat Thep Prasat in Taphan Hin District, Phichit Province. The image is in the attitude of giving blessings, built from reinforced concrete with a hollow interior, which also serves as monks’ living quarters—an impressive blend of artistry and functionality. The Buddha image is massive: the lap is 20 meters wide, with a total height of 33 meters from base to crown (29 meters for the image itself and 4 meters for the base). Its golden-yellow appearance makes it highly prominent and visible from afar, especially for those traveling by train along the nearby railway line.

 

The construction of Phra Phuttha Ketmongkhon began on January 12, 1965, at 9:45 a.m., initiated by Phra Khru Suthep Sitthikarn, the abbot at the time, who also conducted the foundation stone laying ceremony. The project was completed in 1968 with a budget of around 450,000 baht, a substantial sum for that era. Thanks to the dedication of local villagers and monks, the giant Buddha was completed—not only as an object of veneration but also as a spiritual anchor and symbol of unity for the people of Phichit.

 

The statue’s golden coating further enhances its majestic and striking beauty. Apart from its artistic and architectural value, Phra Phuttha Ketmongkhon is recognized as the largest Buddha image in Phichit Province and is a must-visit sacred site for those seeking blessings. Visitors entering the temple grounds are often enveloped in a serene and tranquil atmosphere, feeling a deep sense of peace while paying homage.

 

Wat Thep Prasat is located at the foot of the Nan River Bridge, making it convenient to access by car or train. Passengers traveling by train can see the Buddha image towering along the riverside, almost like a welcoming symbol. The surroundings of the temple still retain the simplicity of rural community life, reflecting the cultural identity of Phichit Province.

 

Phra Phuttha Ketmongkhon, or Luang Pho To Taphan Hin, holds not only religious significance but also historical and cultural value. It stands as a legacy of faith, unity, and devotion to Buddhism that has been passed down through generations. It is no surprise that this sacred site has become a major destination for both pilgrims and tourists visiting Phichit, who come to pay respects and capture lasting memories of one of Thailand’s most magnificent giant Buddha images.