Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, Buddhist temple in Phitsanulok Province, Thailand
Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat is a temple in Phitsanulok Province featuring a large vihara with entrance doors inlaid with mother-of-pearl and a 36-meter Khmer-style prang tower. The main Buddha statue is a massive bronze figure that has been covered with gold leaf for centuries.
The temple was founded in 1357 by King Lithai of Sukhothai on the east bank of the Nan River and became a center for Buddhist worship. Over centuries it was expanded and received the decorative elements that characterize it today.
The temple serves as a major pilgrimage destination where visitors from across the region come to pray and make offerings at its shrines. The layout and decoration of its spaces reflect deep spiritual importance to local communities.
The temple is accessible daily and allows visitors to explore its areas freely. The best times to visit are early in the morning when fewer people are present and the atmosphere is quieter.
The site houses a museum displaying ancient artifacts, votive tablets, ceramics, and regional art from the area. These pieces offer insight into religious artistic practice and local craft traditions that developed over generations.
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