Wat Maha Pho

Open Days: Open daily

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 17.00

 

Wat Maha Pho is a historic temple located in Nai Wiang Subdistrict, Mueang Nan District, Nan Province, Thailand. It is an important community temple deeply connected to the history of Nan city, particularly during the period when the city was relocated due to flooding. One of the most remarkable highlights of the temple is a standing wooden Buddha image in the “Pang Perd Lok” (Open the World) posture, intricately carved, lacquered, and gilded, which survived a devastating fire in the past. This sacred image has become a symbol of faith and spiritual significance for the people of Nan.

 

The history of Wat Maha Pho dates back to the early Rattanakosin period during the reign of King Rama II. At that time, Phaya Sumon Thewarat, the ruler of Nan, decided to relocate the city to a new area due to severe flooding in the old settlement. The new city, which included Wat Phra Kaew, became known as “Wiang Nuea” and was established between approximately 1819 and 1854. The present-day location of Wat Maha Pho lies within what is now Ban Sathanrat and Ban Maha Pho communities, reflecting its strong ties to the historical restructuring of Nan city.

 

A defining historical event associated with Wat Maha Pho is the fire that destroyed the viharn at Wat Phra Kaew. After the fire, only one significant object remained intact—a wooden standing Buddha image measuring approximately 2.83 meters in height. The statue was found lying in front of the base, remarkably preserved despite the intense fire. It was later cleaned and temporarily moved to Wat Chiang Khaeng for safekeeping. However, due to concerns about theft, the statue was eventually returned to Wat Maha Pho, where it has since been enshrined as the principal Buddha image in the temple’s ubosot.

 

This wooden Buddha image is highly revered by the people of Nan. Its survival from the fire is regarded as miraculous, and it is considered both a sacred object and a valuable cultural heritage of the city. Over time, it has become a central element of faith and devotion for local residents, attracting visitors who wish to pay respect and learn about its story.

 

There is also a local legend that foreign collectors once attempted to purchase this Buddha image by offering to replace it with a metal replica. However, every attempt to cast the replacement statue failed due to unexplained issues with the materials, leading them to abandon the idea. Since then, no further attempts have been made, reinforcing the belief in the statue’s sacred and untouchable nature.

 

Wat Maha Pho was officially established as a temple in 1674 and later received Wisungkhamsima (royal boundary for ordination ceremonies) in 1979. The temple is located in Maha Pho village and is surrounded by key landmarks: Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna Nan to the north, Ban Chiang Khaeng and Suriyapong Camp to the east, Ban Sathanrat to the south, and Nan Airport to the west. Its location places it within an important cultural and educational zone of Nan city.

 

The temple is also associated with Kruba Sri Wichai, a revered monk who traveled through the region during his pilgrimage. He once stayed in the Maha Pho area, building a temporary shelter before gradually establishing monastic structures. This connection adds another layer of spiritual and historical importance to the temple.

 

In the mid-20th century, during the time of Phra Palad Khai Kham Suvanno, who was also known as a traditional herbal healer, the viharn was found to be deteriorating due to termite damage. He initiated a major restoration, which was completed in 1963. Later, under Phra Athikan Srinuan Intawangso, the temple established a proper ubosot by formally defining the boundary, ensuring its status as a fully recognized temple.

 

Today, the temple is under the care of Phra Santiphap Santajitto, who serves as the abbot. Wat Maha Pho continues to function as an active religious center where local residents perform daily religious activities, merit-making, and important Buddhist ceremonies. It also serves as a cultural site for visitors interested in the historical and spiritual heritage of Nan.

 

The atmosphere of the temple is peaceful and authentic, reflecting the simplicity of traditional Lanna community temples. Visitors can explore the ubosot, admire the wooden Buddha image, and experience the quiet environment that contrasts with more crowded tourist spots. The temple is particularly suitable for those who seek cultural depth and a meaningful travel experience in Nan.

 

Getting There is convenient as Wat Maha Pho is located within the city area of Nan. It is easily accessible by car, motorcycle, or local transport. The temple is situated near major attractions such as Wat Phumin, Nan National Museum, and Nan Airport, making it a convenient stop within a city sightseeing itinerary.

 

 

A: It is located in Nai Wiang Subdistrict, Mueang Nan District, Nan Province.

 

A: The sacred wooden Buddha image in the Pang Perd Lok posture.

 

A: It survived a major fire and is considered sacred by the local community.

 

A: Yes, it is located in the city and easily accessible.

 

A: Phra Santiphap Santajitto.