Wat Na Prap

Wat Na Prap is located at No. 54, Moo 3, Na Prap, Tambon Na Yang, Amphoe Sop Prap, Lampang Province, postal code 52170. The temple was originally known as Wat Luang and was rebuilt in 1907 (B.E. 2450) by Phra Luang Nanyot Mueang Mun under the name Wat Sop Yong. Later, the name was changed to reflect the name of the village. The temple was officially granted the Wisungkhamsima, the consecrated boundary for monastic ordination, on July 6, 1949 (B.E. 2492), with the boundary measuring 20 meters wide and 40 meters long.

 

Throughout its history, Wat Na Prap has been administered by eleven abbots. Among those recorded are Phra Athikan Sao (1912–1924), Phra Athikan Kham (1924–1926), Phra Athikan Saen (1926–1928), Phra Athikan Tan (1929–1932), Phra Athikan Suk (1933–1937), Phra Athikan Sriwichai (1940–1941), Phra Athikan Kham (again, 1941–1943), Phra Athikan Ta Sanorato (1943–1953), Phra Athikan Kaew Sirichanto (1953–1962), Phra Athikan Chuen (1962–1963), and since 1964, the current abbot Phra Khru Sophon Chariyanuwat.

 

In terms of education, the temple established a Pariyatti Dhamma School in 1957 (B.E. 2500) for the study of Buddhist scriptures. At present, the temple houses four monks and is affiliated with the Mahanikaya sect. The temple grounds cover an area of 8 rai and 2 ngan, or approximately 3.4 acres.

 

Among the temple's ancient artifacts is a Lanna-style stucco Buddha image, 150 centimeters wide, estimated to be 85 years old. Another significant object of worship is the Phra Chao Than Jai, constructed on Saturday, the 9th day of the waxing moon, 5th lunar day, in the 9th lunar month. Important structures within the temple grounds include the vihara, drum tower, monks' living quarters, dining hall, multipurpose pavilion, ubosot, and a stupa.