Phra Si Phanommat Monument

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: The outdoor monument area is accessible throughout the day

 

Phra Si Phanommat Monument is located at the main intersection of Laplae Market in Si Phanommat Subdistrict, Laplae District, Uttaradit Province. It is one of the most meaningful landmarks in Laplae, not only because it stands in the center of the old market area, but also because it preserves the memory of a respected local figure whose life reflects loyalty, public service, gratitude, and devotion to his hometown.

 

The monument was built to honor Phra Si Phanommat, whose original name was Thong In. He was a Thai-Chinese local leader and liquor tax farmer in Laplae who became deeply respected for his dedication to the development of the town. His story is closely tied to the social and administrative history of Laplae during the reign of King Rama V, a period when many parts of Siam were undergoing important reforms in local administration and governance.

 

Thong In was known for his strong connection to Laplae and his commitment to improving the town’s economic, social, and cultural life. Because of his contribution to the community, he was first appointed Khun Phisan Chinakit and later received the noble title Phra Si Phanommat in 1908. This recognition reflected both official trust and the respect he had earned from local people.

 

For visitors, Phra Si Phanommat Monument is more than a photo stop. It is a place where local history remains present in everyday life. The monument stands among shops, market activity, local food stalls, and community roads, allowing travelers to see how history and daily life naturally overlap in a small northern Thai town. This is part of the charm of Laplae: its heritage is not isolated from the community, but continues to live within it.

 

The location at Laplae Market intersection makes the monument a practical starting point for exploring the district. From here, travelers can continue to Laplae Museum, Laplae City Gate, Wat Phra Borom That Thung Yang, Wat Phra Thaen Sila At, and Mae Phun Waterfall. The monument helps visitors understand that Laplae is not only known for its legend of a hidden town or its famous fruits, but also for its local leaders, cultural memory, and community identity.

 

The atmosphere around the monument is simple, local, and active. Travelers can pay respect, take photographs, walk around the market area, and observe the rhythm of daily life in Laplae. The surrounding neighborhood offers a sense of authenticity that differs from large tourist destinations. It is a place where visitors can begin to understand Laplae through people, food, roads, markets, and stories.

 

The name Phra Si Phanommat is also connected with Si Phanommat Subdistrict, showing how deeply his memory is embedded in the local identity of Laplae. His name appears not only on the monument, but also in the surrounding civic and cultural landscape. Visiting the monument is therefore a way to understand one of the central figures behind the historical memory of the town.

 

Travelers interested in local history should combine the monument with Laplae Museum, where cultural exhibits and the Phra Si Phanommat House help explain the broader context of the town. This route gives visitors a clearer picture of Laplae’s way of life, local traditions, architecture, food culture, and historical development. It is especially suitable for travelers who prefer meaningful cultural travel rather than quick sightseeing alone.

 

Laplae is also known for its distinctive food culture. After visiting the monument, travelers can try local dishes such as khao phan phak, mi phan, and northern-style food influenced by the local way of life. Several restaurants and cafés are located close to the monument, making it easy to combine a historical stop with a food-focused walk around town.

 

Getting There is convenient by private car from Uttaradit town. Take Highway 102 toward Laplae District and continue to the Si Phanommat market area. The monument is located at the main intersection of Laplae Market, close to shops, local roads, and other cultural attractions. The drive from central Uttaradit usually takes around 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic. Travelers without a private car can use local hired transport from Uttaradit town and combine several Laplae attractions in one trip.

 

The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon, when the weather is more comfortable for walking around the market area. During Laplae’s fruit season, the trip can also be combined with local fruit stalls, orchards, or shops selling regional products. Starting at Phra Si Phanommat Monument helps travelers plan an easy route that includes history, culture, food, and nature in one day.

 

Visitors should be mindful that the monument is located at a busy intersection. Park only in appropriate areas, avoid obstructing traffic, and treat the monument respectfully. Do not climb on the monument base, and help keep the public space clean. These simple practices help preserve the dignity of this local landmark for both residents and visitors.

 

Phra Si Phanommat Monument is a recommended stop for anyone visiting Laplae District. Although the visit itself may take only a short time, the monument opens the door to a deeper understanding of Laplae as a town shaped by real people, local leadership, cultural memory, and community pride. It is a small landmark with a large historical meaning.

 

 

A: It is located at Laplae Market Intersection in Si Phanommat Subdistrict, Laplae District, Uttaradit Province.

 

A: Phra Si Phanommat, originally named Thong In, was a respected Thai-Chinese local figure who contributed significantly to the development of Laplae.

 

A: The monument honors a local leader who played an important role in the history and development of Laplae, and it remains a key landmark in the town center.

 

A: No. The monument is a public landmark and there is no admission fee.

 

A: Morning or late afternoon is recommended because the weather is more comfortable for walking around the market area.

 

A: Nearby attractions include Laplae Museum, Laplae City Gate, Wat Phra Borom That Thung Yang, Wat Phra Thaen Sila At, and Mae Phun Waterfall.

 

A: Take Highway 102 toward Laplae District and continue to Si Phanommat Market. The monument is located at the main market intersection.