Located within the Sukhothai Historical Park, Wat Phra Phai Luang is a piece of Thailand’s history and architecture. This second-largest temple after Wat Mahathat is a fascinating time machine. Let’s get into the history, architecture, etc. of Wat Phra Phai Luang.
History of Wat Phra Phai Luang
Wat Phra Phai Luang is a historical temple in Sukhothai, Thailand, famous for its heritage and architecture. This temple’s history is a reflection of the evolution of religion and architecture in the area, so it’s a must visit to understand Thailand’s history.
Origins and Construction
Wat Phra Phai Luang was built in the late 12th century during the reign of Khmer King Jayavarman VII, when the Khmer Empire was expanding into what is now Thailand.
Originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, it was built when Sukhothai was still a part of the Khmer Empire. So it’s one of the oldest monuments in Sukhothai, even older than the Sukhothai Kingdom, which was established in 1238 CE.
The temple was located near the Sanluang gate in the northern city wall and was the central temple during its early years. The architecture is Khmer style with three original prangs (tower-like structures), but only one is still standing today. The prangs are decorated with stucco reliefs of Hindu deities and scenes from Buddhist teachings.
From Hindu to Buddhist
As the Sukhothai kingdom grew and Buddhism became more popular, Wat Phra Phai Luang was converted from a Hindu shrine to a Theravada Buddhist temple.
This happened as Buddhism became more popular in the area, especially under King Ramkhamhaeng (1279–1298 CE), who spread Theravada Buddhism throughout his kingdom. During the Sukhothai period, Wat Phra Phai Luang became a religious hub.
The temple complex was expanded, and new buildings were added, including a vihara (assembly hall) and several Buddha images. The architecture of the new buildings is Sukhothai style, elegant and symbolic.
Decline and Rediscovery
As the Sukhothai kingdom declined and the Ayutthaya Kingdom rose, Wat Phra Phai Luang was gradually abandoned.
By the time the Burmese invaded Sukhothai in the 16th century, the temple was already abandoned.
It wasn’t until the 20th century with the establishment of the Sukhothai Historical Park that the site was preserved and restored.
Today, Wat Phra Phai Luang is one of the main attractions in the Sukhothai Historical Park. A must visit to understand Thailand’s history and culture. Still magnificent. Still sacred.
Conservation and Legacy
Today, Wat Phra Phai Luang is part of Sukhothai Historical Park, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Conservation has been done to preserve this historical treasure so visitors can walk around and see its history. The site still attracts tourists and scholars alike to learn about Thailand’s cultural heritage.
Architecture of Wat Phra Phai Luang
Wat Phra Phai Luang is a mix of Khmer and Thai architecture, reflecting the transitions and influences over the centuries. Here’s a closer look at the architecture that makes this temple special in Sukhothai Historical Park.
The Three Laterite Prangs
One of the most impressive features of Wat Phra Phai Luang is the Khmer prangs. Prangs are tall tower-like structures found in Khmer architecture. Originally the temple had three prangs, but today only the northern one is remaining. The other two have collapsed over time, and only the bases are left.
Built during the reign of Khmer King Jayavarman VII, these prangs are the oldest structures in the historical park. They are grand and beautifully carved, reflecting the art and architecture of the Khmer period.
Buddha Images in Four Postures
In the 15th century, a pavilion was built to house four large Buddha images, standing, walking, sitting, and reclining. The standing Buddha image is well preserved, and the outline of the walking Buddha is still visible. The other two images have disappeared.
The Moat and Layout
The temple complex is surrounded by three levels of moats, which served both practical and symbolic purposes:
Outer Moat (Khu Mae Joan): The outermost moat was a defensive barrier and the boundary between the sacred temple area and the secular world.
Inner Moats: The inner moats further defined the sacred area, creating a peaceful and protected space for worship and meditation.
The rectangular layout of the temple complex is typical of Khmer temple design, with a central sanctuary surrounded by satellite buildings.
Stucco Carvings and Reliefs
The stucco carvings and reliefs of Wat Phra Phai Luang are beautiful.
Floral and Geometric Patterns: The stucco work has floral and geometric patterns on the prangs and other buildings. These decorations are of the period and add to the temple’s beauty.
Mythological Scenes: Reliefs show scenes from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, the transition of the temple from Hindu to Buddhist. These scenes are the religious and cultural stories of the time.
Buddha Images: Inside the vihara there are several Buddha images in different postures, each representing different aspects of Buddhism.
Current State
Today Wat Phra Phai Luang is a ruin, but a ruin that still shows its former glory. The site is managed by the Fine Arts Department of Thailand and UNESCO to be part of the Sukhothai Historical Park. The temple complex is mostly in ruins but still beautiful.
Remaining Prang: Of the three original Khmer-style Prangs, only the northern Prang remains. This prang still has some of the original stucco decorations that have been restored.
Vihara and Chedis: The base and pillars of the main vihara (assembly hall) are still there, and several smaller chedis (stupas) around it.
Stucco Reliefs: Some of the stucco reliefs of Hindu and Buddhist scenes have been preserved and are kept at the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum for safekeeping.
Wat Phra Phai Luang Visiting
For visitors to Wat Phra Phai Luang, here are some tips:
Location: The temple is located in Sukhothai Historical Park, which is just 30 minutes from Sukhothai city center.
Opening Hours: The park opens from 6 AM to 6 PM daily. It is best to visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee for Sukhothai Historical Park, which covers all sites in the park.
Guided Tours: Join a tour to get more information about Wat Phra Phai Luang and other temples nearby.
Photography: Bring your camera! The temple details are great for photography.
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Conclusion
Wat Phra Phai Luang is not just a historical site; it’s a journey through time that shows the cultural, religious, and architectural development of Thailand.
From its Khmer roots to its transformation into a Buddhist temple under the Sukhothai Kingdom, it’s a window into Southeast Asian history.
Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or just someone who wants to see Thailand’s heritage, Wat Phra Phai Luang is a must-visit.