Wat Don That, Buddhist temple in Sai Mun, Thailand
Wat Don That is a temple in Sai Mun featuring a traditional Ubosot with golden decorations, multiple wooden pavilions, and a stupa in northern Thai style. The most distinctive building is the ho trai, with stone construction on the lower level and black lacquered teak on the upper floor, complete with detailed balustrades.
The temple was founded in 1487 under King Tilokarat of the Mangrai Dynasty with the original name Wat Aranbarnpa. It received its current name in 1907 and has since undergone major restoration work, most notably to the viharn building.
The name reflects the local landscape and the place's importance in the community's spiritual life. You can see how people visit regularly to pray and participate in ceremonies that mark the seasons and important moments.
The temple grounds are easy to walk through, with various buildings connected by well-maintained paths. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and observe local customs when entering sacred areas.
A major Buddha image traveled here from Chiangsaen through an unusual journey involving elephants and horses, reflecting historical trade routes. This arrival story remains part of local memory and shows how important religious objects were transported across the region centuries ago.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
