TL;DR: Wat Sri Bun Rueang is located at Mae Sariang Subdistrict, Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son, open Open daily, hours 08:00–18:00. Highlights include Largest white jade Buddha in Thailand, Tai Yai architecture, mural paintings.
Wat Sri Bun Rueang
Open Days: Open daily
Opening Hours: 08:00–18:00
Wat Sri Bun Rueang is a royal-affiliated temple under the Mahanikaya sect, located in Mae Sariang Subdistrict, Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son Province. The temple stands adjacent to Wat Chong Sung, separated only by a boundary fence. It serves as an important religious and cultural center for the Tai Yai community in Mae Sariang. The current abbot is Phra Khru Anusorn Panyakun (Khemarin).
The temple was established in 1907 and was originally known as “Wat Mak Kaeng.” Later, in 1947, the name was changed to Wat Sri Bun Rueang to reflect its auspicious status. The temple received its official boundary (Wisungkhamsima) in 1937, allowing it to conduct important Buddhist ceremonies formally.
Wat Sri Bun Rueang plays a significant cultural role in the community, particularly through the organization of the Poi Sang Long ceremony, a traditional novice ordination of Tai Yai boys. This ceremony is deeply meaningful, combining religious devotion with cultural expression. Young participants are beautifully dressed before entering monkhood to study both general education and Buddhist teachings, supported by community faith and donations.
The temple features several important structures, including an ordination hall with intricate carved roof decorations. Inside, there is a large Burmese-style Buddha image that is occasionally open to visitors. Another highlight is the large multi-purpose hall built in Tai Yai architectural style with layered roofs. This structure serves as a viharn, monks’ residence, and sermon hall. Inside are mural paintings depicting the Vessantara Jataka in all 12 chapters, created by Burmese artisans.
One of the most important sacred objects at the temple is the White Jade Buddha, considered the largest jade Buddha image in Thailand. It was created in 2006 to commemorate the reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej as the longest-reigning monarch in the world. The statue stands 6 feet 9 inches tall with a base width of 48 inches. It was carved in Mandalay, Myanmar, and later enshrined at the temple, becoming a major spiritual attraction.
The atmosphere of Wat Sri Bun Rueang is peaceful and reflects the traditional lifestyle of the Tai Yai community. Visitors can explore its architecture, art, and cultural significance while also conveniently visiting nearby attractions such as Wat Chong Sung and hilltop stupas around Mae Sariang.
Getting There is convenient via Highway 108. Once you arrive in Mae Sariang town, you can easily navigate to the temple using GPS. The temple is located within the community area, close to accommodations and restaurants, making it accessible by car, motorcycle, or even on foot.
| Name | Wat Sri Bun Rueang |
| Location | Mae Sariang Subdistrict, Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son |
| Highlights | Largest white jade Buddha in Thailand, Tai Yai architecture, mural paintings |
| History | Established in 1907, renamed in 1947 |
| Abbot | Phra Khru Anusorn Panyakun (Khemarin) |
| Nearby Tourist Attractions | 1) Wat Chong Sung – 0.1 km 2) Phra That Chom Thong – 2 km 3) Phra That Chom Mon – 2 km 4) Phra That Chom Kitti – 4 km 5) Mae Sariang Museum – 1 km |
| Nearby Restaurants | 1) Indira – 1 km 2) Mitmaitri Coffee – 1 km Tel. 061-457-8155 3) 99 Street Coffee – 1 km Tel. 085-106-3531 4) SOOK Coffee 108 – 3 km Tel. 097-071-0389 5) Thai Coffee – 3 km |
| Nearby Accommodations | 1) The Good View Guest House – 1 km Tel. 081-998-2480 2) Riverhouse Hotel – 1 km Tel. 053-682-323 3) Above The Sea – 2 km Tel. 053-682-264 4) Riverhouse Resort – 2 km Tel. 053-683-066 5) River Bank Resort – 3 km Tel. 053-682-787 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where is Wat Sri Bun Rueang located?
A: It is located in Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son Province, next to Wat Chong Sung.
Q: What is the highlight of the temple?
A: The White Jade Buddha, the largest jade Buddha in Thailand.
Q: What cultural tradition is held here?
A: The Poi Sang Long novice ordination ceremony.
Q: When was the temple built?
A: It was established in 1907.
Q: Can it be visited with other attractions?
A: Yes, it can be combined with Wat Chong Sung and nearby hilltop stupas.
Category: ●Places of Worship
Category: ●Group: ●Temple
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Last Update : 3 DayAgo
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