Phrabat Phuphankham Temple is a temple in eastern Thailand dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The temple is one of the most spectacular in the country and a great place to visit if you're looking for a unique experience. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and elaborate carvings that feature both Hindu gods and mythical creatures. The temple is also a pilgrimage site, with many believers making the trek to pay their respects to Shiva. The temple is located in the small town of Nakhon Si Thammarat and is a popular destination among both locals and tourists. Phrabat Phuphankham Temple
Overview:

The temple at Phrabat Phuphankham is over 400 years old and is surrounded by a large complex that includes several other small temples, a number of pavilions, and scatterings of serene ponds and gardens. The actual temple is an impressive structure that takes up the entire lot, towering over the surrounding buildings with its five tiers. While the temple itself is a must-see, there are also several smaller shrines around the complex, each with its own unique history and purpose. These shrines are fascinating to explore and can provide a wealth of insight into Thai culture. Phrabat Phuphankham Temple
Facts:

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is traditionally depicted with four faces and twelve arms. Within the temple complex, three of these four faces are visible, each adorning its own part of the complex. Additionally, the temple is surrounded by a wall decorated with carvings of the deity Ganesha, who is depicted with his elephant head. The temple is actually comprised of five separate tiers that contain various shrines and statues of various Hindu gods and mythical creatures, some of which are believed to be over 4,000 years old. Phrabat Phuphankham Temple
History:

The temple dates back to the 15th century, when it was constructed as a center to house the spiritual teachings of Shiva and its devotees. As the temple grew in popularity, so did its collections of Tamil stone inscriptions and images. Throughout its long history, the temple has been enshrined as a pilgrimage site and was even provided special protection by nearby kings. Today, it remains a popular pilgrimage spot and is a great place to learn more about the Hindu faith. Phrabat Phuphankham Temple
Travel:

The temple is located in eastern Thailand, in the town of Nakhon Si Thammarat. The town is relatively small but provides a great local experience. There are several shops and restaurants to explore surrounding the temple’s complex, and the temple itself is open from 7 am to 5 pm. To visit the temple, you'll need to book a ferry ride from the pier in Nakhon Si Thammarat, which typically takes about an hour to reach the temple and is a great way to get to the temple and experience the stunning natural beauty of the east coast.