Wat Traphang Ngoen, Ancient temple ruins in Sukhothai Historical Park, Thailand.
Wat Traphang Ngoen is a temple complex centered on a stupa topped with a lotus-shaped finial, surrounded by an artificial lake with an ordination hall set on an island. A brick bridge connects the main grounds to this island structure.
This temple was built during the 14th century under the Sukhothai Kingdom, a period of cultural flourishing in Thai history. The site reflects architectural innovations of that era, particularly in its use of water elements.
The central stupa displays four Buddha figures in niches facing each cardinal direction, reflecting Buddhist beliefs about divine presence extending in all directions. This arrangement shows how religious architecture expressed spiritual concepts through its physical layout.
You can explore the grounds on foot or rent a bicycle to cover more area and visit nearby temples on the same site. Guided tours are available through the park entrance and help with navigation and understanding the ruins.
The name translates to Silver Lake, referring to the artificial body of water that still surrounds the temple today. This naming choice reveals how integral water was to both the design and perception of this sacred space.
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