Wat Salang (Phra That Cha Aupakam)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

 

Wat Salaeng, also known as Wat Pa Sukan Thammaram, is an ancient temple located in Long District, Phrae Province. It is associated with an important sacred stupa called Phra That Cha Up Kham. This temple is one of the most distinctive cultural attractions in Phrae, offering a combination of legend, history, religious significance, and even natural relaxation spaces within the same area.

 

The name of Wat Salaeng comes from a local legend. It is believed that when the Buddha once passed through this area, local villagers offered salaeng flowers, a type of wild flower with soft white petals, as a form of devotion. Because of this act of faith, the temple was later named after the flower, becoming “Wat Salaeng.” This story reflects the deep spiritual connection between the community and Buddhism.

 

Although the temple was once abandoned in the past, the site has always remained important due to the presence of many ancient structures, artifacts, and religious objects. Wat Salaeng is considered to be from the same historical period as Wat Phra That Si Don Kham, making it a valuable site for understanding the cultural and religious development of Long District and the Lanna region.

 

The temple is clearly divided into two main areas: the old sacred zone and the new sacred zone. The old zone preserves the historical atmosphere, featuring ancient structures and artifacts, while the new zone reflects the temple’s current use and community activities. This allows visitors to experience both the past and the present in one place.

 

One of the key highlights of Wat Salaeng is the Wat Salaeng Museum, which houses a large collection of antiques, historical objects, and religious art. This transforms the temple into both a spiritual destination and a cultural learning center, making it especially appealing to visitors interested in local history.

 

Another unique feature of the temple is the paired Buddha footprints, which are considered sacred. Additionally, the temple is home to the famous Salung Luang, a large bronze ceremonial bowl that is regarded as one of the largest of its kind in Thailand. These elements make Wat Salaeng highly distinctive compared to other temples.

 

Behind the temple, visitors will find a hot spring area, along with mineral bathing facilities, a sports ground, and public relaxation spaces. This makes Wat Salaeng more than just a place of worship, as visitors can enjoy both cultural exploration and relaxation in one trip.

 

The overall atmosphere of the temple reflects traditional northern Thai (Lanna) style, with open spaces, religious structures, and a strong sense of local community. Visitors will experience both tranquility and authenticity when exploring the temple grounds.

 

Wat Salaeng is located in Village No. 4, Ban Na Luang, Huai O Subdistrict, Long District, Phrae Province. The area is rich in cultural attractions, making it easy to plan a connected travel route within the district.

 

Travel Information is straightforward. The most convenient way to reach the temple is by private car from Phrae city to Long District, then continuing to Huai O Subdistrict. The temple can be easily found by searching “Wat Salaeng” on map applications.

 

The temple is open daily and free to enter, making it suitable for all types of visitors, including cultural tourists, pilgrims, families, and independent travelers.

 

 

A: It is located in Huai O Subdistrict, Long District, Phrae Province.

 

A: The main highlights include Phra That Cha Up Kham, the museum, Buddha footprints, and the hot spring.

 

A: No, admission is free.

 

A: It is suitable for cultural tourism, temple visits, and relaxation.

 

A: The most convenient way is by private car.