Wat Saen Thong

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 16.30

 

Wat Chom Chaeng and Wat Saen Thong are two important temples in Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son Province. They clearly reflect local history, Lanna art, and the deep faith of the community. For those who wish to explore Mae Sariang beyond simple sightseeing or nature photography, these two temples offer a deeper understanding of the cultural roots of the former Mueang Yuam. Wat Chom Chaeng stands out for its ancient stupa and scenic viewpoint, while Wat Saen Thong is renowned for Phra Saen Thong and Phra Phuttha Sihing, known locally as “Phra Phet” or “Phra Singh Nueng,” both of which have long been revered as sacred images of the town.

 

For travelers planning a one-day or half-day trip in Mae Sariang, visiting these two temples is highly recommended. Both are located within the district and are connected both geographically and culturally. Wat Chom Chaeng is ideal for visiting in the morning or evening to enjoy the scenery, while Wat Saen Thong is suitable for exploring the temple atmosphere within the town and studying important Buddha images with artistic and cultural value.

 

Wat Chom Chaeng, also known as “Wat Phra That Chom Chaeng,” is located at the entrance of Mae Sariang town near Mae Sariang Museum and along Highway 108, the main road connecting Chiang Mai, Mae Sariang, and Mae Hong Son. This location makes it easy for visitors entering the district to notice the temple. Its uniqueness lies not only in accessibility but also in its elevated position, offering beautiful panoramic views of rice fields, houses, and the overall landscape of Mae Sariang, especially during sunset.

 

Historically, Wat Chom Chaeng was established in 1914 (B.E. 2457) and later received its royal boundary (Wisungkhamsima) on February 3, 1997. However, what makes the temple particularly significant is “Phra That Chom Chaeng,” a sacred stupa that enshrines relics of the Buddha, especially hair relics. According to local legend, it was built around B.E. 1000 by four hermits so that people in Mueang Yuam could have a place to worship. As a result, it is regarded as a spiritual symbol of Mae Sariang.

 

Another interesting feature is the belief associated with revered monks. At the base of the stupa, there is a stone pillar believed to bear the handprint of Khruba Chai Wongsa. Devotees often pay respect here along with worshipping the stupa, reinforcing the temple’s living spiritual significance.

 

The ordination hall of Wat Chom Chaeng reflects Lanna architectural style. Inside, the principal Buddha image is enshrined, and in front of it stands a statue of Prince Siddhartha in royal attire. The interior atmosphere is calm and solemn. The murals depict the Vessantara Jataka and scenes from the Buddha’s life, adding artistic value to the temple.

 

The charm of Wat Chom Chaeng lies in the combination of three elements: the sacred stupa, Lanna artistic beauty, and the panoramic viewpoint overlooking Mae Sariang. Visitors who enjoy peaceful environments often find this temple simple yet deeply meaningful.

 

Wat Saen Thong is another important temple located in the center of Mae Sariang District. It is distinguished in another dimension — as the site of important Buddha images with high artistic value and long-standing community faith.

 

Wat Saen Thong is a tourist attraction in Mae Hong Son, located in Mae Sariang District. One of its most important features is Phra Saen Thong, a bronze Buddha image in the Mara-Vijaya posture, created in Chiang Saen style, recognized as one of the oldest and most beautiful Buddha images in the area.

 

The name “Saen Thong” reflects the spiritual richness of faith in Buddhism. Its artistic style shows the influence of Chiang Saen art, known for its calmness, elegance, and strength, linking Mae Sariang to the broader Lanna cultural world.

 

In addition, the temple houses Phra Phuttha Sihing, locally called “Phra Phet” or “Phra Singh Nueng.” This Buddha image has long been revered by the community and plays an important role in local life and traditions.

 

Wat Saen Thong is also closely connected to local traditions. During the Songkran Festival, Phra Phet and Phra Saen Thong are paraded around the town for people to pour water and pay respect. This reflects the temple’s role as a cultural and spiritual center of the community.

 

Another distinctive aspect is that visitors who wish to see Phra Phuttha Sihing can contact the monks within the temple to request access, creating a respectful and serene visiting atmosphere.

 

When considered together, Wat Chom Chaeng and Wat Saen Thong complement each other. One offers a scenic and elevated spiritual experience, while the other provides a deeper connection to sacred Buddha images and local traditions.

 

Getting There Travel via Highway 108 from Chiang Mai to Mae Sariang. Wat Chom Chaeng is located at the entrance of the town near the museum, while Wat Saen Thong is situated within the town center and easily accessible.

 

 

A: Wat Chom Chaeng is located at the entrance of Mae Sariang District, near Mae Sariang Museum and along Highway 108.

 

A: The main highlight is Phra That Chom Chaeng, which enshrines sacred Buddha relics, along with its Lanna architecture and panoramic viewpoint overlooking Mae Sariang.

 

A: Wat Saen Thong houses Phra Saen Thong, a Chiang Saen-style bronze Buddha image in the Mara-Vijaya posture, and Phra Phuttha Sihing, known locally as Phra Phet or Phra Singh Nueng.

 

A: Yes, visitors can contact the monks within the temple to request permission to view it.

 

A: During the Songkran Festival, Phra Phet and Phra Saen Thong are paraded around the town for people to pour water and pay respect.

 

A: You can start at Wat Chom Chaeng at the entrance of Mae Sariang, then continue to Wat Saen Thong in the town center within the same day.

 

A: They are suitable for travelers interested in temple visits, cultural tourism, Lanna art, and slow travel in a peaceful northern town.