Overview:

Wat Chang Lom is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Sukhothai in Northern Thailand. The temple is believed to be built by the Khmer people in the 12th century and was later taken over by the Thai people.The ruins at Wat Chang Lom have undergone extensive restoration to the original Khmer style. The site contains two Buddha statues believed to have been placed there in the 9th century by the Khmer. The temple is situated in a large lake and contains a large chedi surrounded by many small ones. Wat Chang Lom is an important landmark in Sukhothai and is well visited throughout the year. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

1. Wat Chang Lom is a large temple complex located in the old Royal capital Sukhothai, Thailand. 2. It is one of the major historical sites in the area occupying about 7 hectares, bounded by moats. 3. The temples feature a mix of Khmer and traditional Thai architecture, and have remained largely intact since their construction in the late 13th century. 4. The monument is home to several important structures, including the 4 main temples of the compound, the large Buddharamha stupa, and the Ginnustho prang, a 19.5 meter-tall spired tower. 5. At the center of the compound is the distinctive temple of Phra Si Mahathats, with its three giant Buddha figures. A number of other statues and stucco carvings are also located in Wat Chang Lom, including a depiction of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. 6. The grounds also feature several kiosks, shrines, and other smaller buildings that provide insights into the religious and cultural history of Sukhothai. 7. In recognition of its historical importance, Wat Chang Lom has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Chang Lom is a historic Buddhist temple located in Sukhothai, Thailand. The temple was built during the 13th century, during the Khmer Empire’s reign in the region. The temple is associated with the Khmer Empire and the Royal Family, as it was used as a royal residence. Wat Chang Lom is one of the best preserved temples in Sukhothai, exemplifying both Khmer and local Sukhothai architectural styles. Wat Chang Lom was first constructed in the 13th century, during the ruling of Sukhothai Empire’s first monarch, King Sri Indraditya. The temple was reportedly built at the request of the king who wanted to honor his brother, King Prem Indradidy. The temple was initially named Wat Yot Chang Khom, meaning “Elephant and Castle Temple”. The temple was modified numerous times over the centuries throughout the imperial periods in Sukhothai, such as under the Ayuthaya period and the Sakkana period. Eventually, Wat Chang Lom was a part of the great walled city of Sukhothai that was built by the Khmer Empire in the 13th century. Throughout the centuries, Wat Chang Lom was continually used as an important place of pilgrimage by many devout Buddhists. In the 18th century, the temple was renovated by the then-King, Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke and its grounds were transformed into the complex seen today. The king had stone inscriptions made, which are on display in the residence of Wat Chang Lom. During World War II, the temple was damaged butlocal villagers and monks worked together to restore Wat Chang Lom to its former glory. Today, Wat Chang Lom is a popular tourist destination in Sukhothai, attracting many visitors from around the world to admire the temple’s architectural beauty. The temple is a symbol of Sukhothai and its local culture, with its impressive Khmer and Sukhothai-style structures and its many centuries-old stories. Wat Chang Lom is a must-see attraction if you’re ever in the Sukhothai area. The temple is open to visitors daily from 8am to 6pm. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Chang Lom in the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Thailand. It is believed to be the only remaining example of late 13th-century Khmer temple buildings in the country. 2. Wat Chang Lom's temples and stupas feature carvings of various Hindu and Buddhist deities, which are in remarkable condition despite their age. 3. The temple is renowned for its 24-meter-long reclining Buddha statue, which is said to represent the cosmic Buddha. 4. Wat Chang Lom is considered to be one of the 14 special Wat's (temples) in Sukhothai, which is also known as the city of 'the Dawn of Happiness'. 5. On the walls of the temple complex, you will find statues that are almost 700 years old. 6. The temple was built by the first king of the Sukhothai Kingdom, Sri Indraditya, whom some historians also credit with introducing Buddhism to Thailand. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.