Wat Na Phra That (Wat Luang Pho To)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 17.00

 

Wat Na Phra That, also known as Wat Luang Pho To, is an ancient Buddhist temple in Phichai District, Uttaradit Province. Located near the Nan River in Nai Mueang Subdistrict, the temple is one of the most important religious and historical landmarks of Phichai. It is widely known for Luang Pho To, a large ancient stucco Buddha image in the subduing Mara posture, and for the impressive Prasat Phra Nawama Ratchabophit, a 5-spired cruciform pavilion that now houses the sacred image.

 

Wat Na Phra That is an important destination for travelers who want to experience local Buddhist faith, ancient temple heritage, and the historical atmosphere of Phichai District. The temple is believed to have origins dating back to around 927 CE, or approximately 1470 BE, making it one of the old temples associated with the cultural memory of the area. For local residents, it is not only a temple but also a spiritual landmark where generations of people have come to pay respect, make merit, and seek blessings from Luang Pho To.

 

The central sacred image of the temple is Luang Pho To. This large stucco Buddha image is seated in the subduing Mara posture, a symbolic posture representing the Buddha’s victory over temptation through wisdom, mindfulness, and spiritual strength. The image is deeply respected by the people of Phichai and by devotees from nearby communities. Visitors often come to the temple to pay respect, pray for auspiciousness, and experience the calm presence of this historic Buddha image.

 

Another important feature of the temple is the pair of Buddha images known locally as the “two sibling Buddha images.” These images add another layer of devotion to the temple and make Wat Na Phra That a meaningful place for those who wish to pay respect to several sacred images in one visit. Together with Luang Pho To, they reflect the long religious life of the temple and the way local people have preserved Buddhist faith across generations.

 

One of the most striking structures at Wat Na Phra That is Prasat Phra Nawama Ratchabophit, also referred to as the 5-spired cruciform pavilion. The structure was built to enshrine Luang Pho To in a dignified and protective setting. Its design includes four projecting arms and 5 spires, giving the building a distinctive architectural form that stands out within the temple compound. The pavilion is one of the most recognizable features of the temple today.

 

The pavilion was designed by Chit Buabut, a former principal of Poh-Chang Academy of Arts. The building is described as 9 meters wide and 26 meters long, with a cruciform plan, surrounding terraces, and an overall height of about 46 meters. The main structure associated with the enshrinement of Luang Pho To is also commonly described as around 43 meters high, with an interior area of 99 square wah. These details show that the building was created not only as a protective hall but also as a work of religious architecture shaped by faith and artistic intention.

 

The construction process of the pavilion reflects the collective devotion of monks and local supporters. Administrative work began in 1972. In 1982, the old hall of Luang Pho To was removed, foundation work began, and construction proceeded under the support of the ecclesiastical community of Uttaradit Province. In 1988, the structure received the royal name “Prasat Phra Nawama Ratchabophit,” along with the auspicious royal emblem commemorating the 5th cycle birthday anniversary. This royal name added significant meaning to the pavilion and strengthened its role as a symbol of faith for the people.

 

Architecturally, the 5-spired pavilion creates a strong sense of direction and sacred focus. The cruciform plan leads visitors toward the central Buddha image, while the elevated form and spires emphasize reverence and dignity. When visitors enter the pavilion, the space naturally directs attention toward Luang Pho To. This makes the building more than a shelter for a sacred image; it is part of the spiritual experience of worship.

 

Wat Na Phra That is also meaningful because of its location in Phichai District, a historically important area of Uttaradit Province. Phichai is closely associated with Phraya Phichai Dap Hak, the legendary warrior of the Thonburi period. A trip to Wat Na Phra That can therefore be combined with nearby historical sites such as the Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Birthplace Memorial and the Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Museum. This makes the temple a valuable stop for travelers who want to combine Buddhist worship with local history.

 

The temple remains an active Buddhist site under the care of Phra Maha Nakrop Arindamo, the current abbot. Monks reside at the temple, and Buddhist activities continue throughout the year. This active religious life is an important part of the temple’s identity. Wat Na Phra That is not only an ancient site for visitors; it remains a living temple where local people continue to make merit, participate in ceremonies, and maintain their connection with Buddhist practice.

 

For visitors, the most important part of the trip is paying respect to Luang Pho To inside Prasat Phra Nawama Ratchabophit. After that, visitors can walk around the temple grounds, see the two sibling Buddha images, and appreciate the riverside atmosphere of Phichai. A respectful visit should be slow and quiet, allowing time to observe the architecture, reflect on the history, and experience the devotional atmosphere of the temple.

 

Visitors should dress modestly and behave respectfully when entering the temple, especially inside the pavilion and worship areas. Shoes should be removed where required, voices should be kept low, and photography should be done with care. If monks or local residents are performing religious activities, visitors should keep a respectful distance. Since the temple is a sacred community space, proper conduct helps preserve its peaceful atmosphere.

 

Getting There is most convenient by private car. Travelers can start from Uttaradit city and drive toward Phichai District, then continue to Nai Mueang Subdistrict and use a navigation map to search for Wat Na Phra That or Wat Luang Pho To. The temple is located in the Phichai town area near the Nan River, making it easier to reach than temples located deep in rural areas. Travelers using public transport can get off at Phichai Railway Station and continue by local transport or hired vehicle to the temple.

 

Wat Na Phra That can be planned as part of a one-day Phichai cultural route. Visitors may begin by paying respect to Luang Pho To, then continue to Phichai Railway Station, the Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Birthplace Memorial, and the Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Museum. Those interested in temple visits can also continue to Wat Phakdi Rat Buranaram or Wat Pa Kaphi. This route offers a balanced experience of worship, history, local identity, and the quieter side of Uttaradit.

 

Food options around Phichai include local restaurants, cafes, countryside-style restaurants, and shabu or grilled pork buffet restaurants. Visitors can plan a meal after visiting the temple. Accommodation options are available in Phichai District, while more choices can be found in Uttaradit city. Travelers who want to explore several places in Phichai may choose to stay nearby, while those who prefer more hotel options can stay in Uttaradit city and visit Phichai as a day trip.

 

Overall, Wat Na Phra That is one of the most important temples in Phichai District. Its ancient history, Luang Pho To, the two sibling Buddha images, the royal-named Prasat Phra Nawama Ratchabophit, and its connection with the historical identity of Phichai make it a meaningful destination for cultural travelers, temple visitors, and anyone interested in the living Buddhist heritage of Uttaradit Province.

 

 

A: Wat Na Phra That, also known as Wat Luang Pho To, is located in Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Phichai District, Uttaradit Province, near the Nan River.

 

A: The most important sacred image is Luang Pho To, a large ancient stucco Buddha image in the subduing Mara posture.

 

A: Luang Pho To is enshrined inside Prasat Phra Nawama Ratchabophit, also known as the 5-spired cruciform pavilion.

 

A: It is a distinctive 5-spired pavilion built to enshrine Luang Pho To and was royally named in 1988.

 

A: The abbot is Phra Maha Nakrop Arindamo.

 

A: The temple is open daily from 08.00 to 17.00.

 

A: The most convenient way is by private car from Uttaradit city toward Phichai District. Travelers using public transport can get off at Phichai Railway Station and continue by local transport.

 

A: Travelers can combine the visit with Phichai Railway Station, the Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Birthplace Memorial, the Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Museum, Wat Phakdi Rat Buranaram, and Wat Pa Kaphi.