Wat Phra Phutthabat Huai Tom

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 05.00 – 18.00

 

Wat Phra Phutthabat Huai Tom is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Li District, Lamphun Province. Located in Na Sai Subdistrict, it is widely known as the largest temple in Li and the main temple of the Phra Bat Huai Tom Pga K’nyau community. The temple is admired for its laterite architecture, beautifully decorated relic structures, Phra Mueang Kaew Viharn, the preserved sacred body of Luang Pu Khruba Chaiyawongsa Phatthana, and the grand Phra Mahathat Chedi Si Wiang Chai.

 

This temple is more than a religious site. It is the spiritual heart of the Phra Bat Huai Tom community, where Buddhism, ethnic identity and local daily life are closely connected. Many Pga K’nyau residents in the village maintain a way of life shaped by faith, simplicity, Buddhist practice and respect for Luang Pu Khruba Chaiyawongsa Phatthana.

 

Local tradition connects the site with the Buddha, saying that the Buddha once passed through this area and a hunter offered meat as alms food. This story gives the temple deep spiritual meaning and explains why the place is associated with sacred footprints and long-standing Buddhist devotion.

 

One of the temple’s distinctive features is the use of laterite. Many structures within the temple were built using laterite quarried from a pit behind the temple. The material gives the buildings a strong, earthy and dignified character, making the temple visually different from many other temples in Lamphun.

 

Phra Mueang Kaew Viharn is one of the most important areas inside the temple. It houses the sacred preserved body of Luang Pu Khruba Chaiyawongsa Phatthana, a highly respected monk and community developer. His influence remains central to the faith of local people and visitors who come to pay respect.

 

Another major landmark is Phra Mahathat Chedi Si Wiang Chai, a large golden Lanna-style chedi associated with Wat Phra Phutthabat Huai Tom. Built with laterite, the structure is one of the most striking religious landmarks in Li District and is often visited together with the main temple.

 

The surrounding Phra Bat Huai Tom community adds another layer of cultural value. Visitors can experience Pga K’nyau traditions, local textiles, silverwork, knife-making and a quiet community lifestyle influenced by Buddhist values. The area is also known for vegetarian food, reflecting the ethical and spiritual way of life practiced by many residents.

 

Getting There is most convenient by private car or rental vehicle. From Li town, travel toward Na Sai Subdistrict and the Phra Bat Huai Tom community. The temple can be combined in one route with Phra Mahathat Chedi Si Wiang Chai, Wat Phra That Ha Duang, Wat Phra That Duang Diao and Mae Yang Ngua Reservoir. Travelers who want to explore both the temple and the community should allow at least half a day.

 

Visitors should dress respectfully and behave quietly, especially around Phra Mueang Kaew Viharn, the relic areas and places connected with Luang Pu Khruba Chaiyawongsa Phatthana. Wat Phra Phutthabat Huai Tom is best experienced as a place of faith, culture and community life rather than a quick sightseeing stop.

 

 

A: It is located in Moo 8, Na Sai Subdistrict, Li District, Lamphun Province.

 

A: It is known as the largest temple in Li District, the main temple of the Pga K’nyau community, and a temple with laterite architecture, Phra Mueang Kaew Viharn and Phra Mahathat Chedi Si Wiang Chai.

 

A: The temple is a major center of devotion to Luang Pu Khruba Chaiyawongsa Phatthana, and Phra Mueang Kaew Viharn houses his preserved sacred body.

 

A: Many important structures were built with laterite quarried from a pit behind the temple.

 

A: It is suitable for merit-making, pilgrimage, learning about Pga K’nyau culture, viewing laterite architecture and exploring faith-based tourism in Li District.

 

A: Visitors should allow at least half a day to see the temple, Phra Mahathat Chedi Si Wiang Chai and the surrounding Phra Bat Huai Tom community.

 

A: Nearby places include Phra Mahathat Chedi Si Wiang Chai, Wat Phra That Ha Duang, Wat Phra That Duang Diao and Mae Yang Ngua Reservoir.