Wat Si Chum
A 15-metre Buddha compressed into a narrow mondop — Wat Si Chum's giant Phra Atchana framing through the stone slit is Thailand's most dramatic Buddha experience.
About this Place
Wat Si Chum contains one of Thailand's most powerful Buddha images — the Phra Atchana, a monumental seated Buddha 15 metres wide and 11.3 metres high that fills an unusual square mondop (enclosing shrine) with only a narrow slit opening. The giant face and hands emerging from the confined opening create a dramatic and otherworldly impression unlike any other temple in Thailand. Built in the 14th century, the mondop walls contain a hidden staircase (currently closed) once used by priests to convey oracular messages through a secret speaking tube to the Buddha's lips — creating the illusion the deity spoke. Located in Sukhothai Historical Park's northern zone, a 3km bicycle ride from the Central Zone. The tranquil lotus pond outside reflects the structure beautifully. One of the most hauntingly beautiful religious monuments in Southeast Asia.
Location
17.0236, 99.6908
More Nearby Locations
Thailand's most magical festival at its birthplace — Sukhothai's ancient temple ponds fill with thousands of candle-lit floats each November full moon.
The gateway museum to Sukhothai's ruins — home to the Ramkhamhaeng Stele replica documenting one of history's earliest Thai alphabet inscriptions.
Sukhothai's less-visited sister UNESCO site — 200+ temple ruins in forested hills including elephant-buttressed chedis and ancient Sangkalok pottery kilns.
Thailand's most serene UNESCO site — cycle among lotus-pond temple ruins of the first Siamese kingdom, stunning at dawn and during November's Loi Krathong festival.