Overview:

Wat Phra Mahathat - Nakhon Si Thammarat is a prominent Hindu temple complex in the town of Nakhon Si Thammarat in Southern Thailand. It has been a spiritual center since the 14th century, and consists of a series of ornate religious structures including a main shrine, a viharn, and several chedis and Buddha images. It houses a large collection of sacred objects, including a highly revered Buddha relic. The temple attracts a large number of devotees from all over Thailand and beyond, who come to pay homage and make offerings. The temple is known internationally as it features in many of Thailand's top religious festivals and is regarded as one of the most important shrines in the country. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

1. Grand Chedi: Wat Phra Mahathat is the home of a grand chedi, also known as a stupa, which dates back to the 11th century. The chedi stands at a height of 15 meters and is the tallest structure in the temple complex. It is believed to contain a relic of the Buddha and is a masterpiece of southern Thai architecture. 2. Lanna-style Vihara: The temple is also home to a square-shaped Lanna-style vihara, or chapel, which dates back to the 15th century. This structure is decorated with plaster designs, intricate stucco reliefs, and vibrant paintings. 3. Lanchan Tower: Another iconic feature at Wat Phra Mahathat is the Lanchan Tower, a seven-story structure built in traditional Thai Buddhist architectural style. This distinctive tower stands at a height of 81 meters and was originally built to commemorate the arrival of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) in Nakhon Si Thammarat in 1883. 4. Enclosure Wall: Surrounding the temple complex is an impressive enclosure wall constructed from laterite which is believed to date back to the 11th century as well. This wall is decorated with more than 400 Hindu-style deities said to represent the Hindu gods who helped protect the temple. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Phra Mahathat is a Buddhist temple located in Nakhon Si Thammarat, southern Thailand. The temple dates back to the 8th Century, when Theravada Buddhism became the state faith of the area. During this period, the temple was a pivotal center for religious activities and was significant for its artwork and historical architecture. In the 18th century, King Taksin the Great had the temple renovated and extended. Wat Phra Mahathat remains one of the largest and oldest temples in Thailand and has become a popular tourist attraction. The temple complex consists of many architectural styles, influenced by the Hindu and Buddhist influences of India and Khmer architecture from Cambodia. A prominent feature of the temple is the stupa, or reliquary, which is in the center of the grounds. The main stupa contains the ashes of King Taksin the Great. There are other smaller stupas that date back to the 8th century as well. The compound consists of two gates that lead into the main hallway, which also contains several niches with images of the Buddha. The main hall at Wat Phra Mahathat is known as the Phra Prang, which is a large, ornamental arch. It houses a number of Buddha images and the relic of Buddha's dental imprint. There are also several shrines dedicated to prominent Buddhist figures, including angels and deities. In addition to the buildings, Wat Phra Mahathat is home to a large number of sculptures. These sculptures include Hindu and Buddhist gods, goddesses, animals, and other figures. Within the complex are several gardens and ponds that offer a peaceful environment for contemplation. Today, Wat Phra Mahathat is a major tourist attraction and a popular place for pilgrims to visit. People can come to the temple to explore its historical and religious significance as well as its stunning architecture. The temple is also home to a number of noteworthy events throughout the year, including a colorful annual procession with thousands of devotees. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Phra Mahathat is the second most important Buddhist temple in Thailand after Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. 2. The temple is believed to have been built sometime between the 11th and 13th centuries. 3. It is home to a relic of the Buddha’s hair and is a popular pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from all over Thailand. 4. The temple is also considered to be the center for the southern Thai Buddhist tradition of Nakhon Si Thammarat. 5. Wat Phra Mahathat is home to a unique procession held on the full moon of the 5th month of the Thai lunar calendar. The unique procession features praying monks rolling a large pagoda around the temple and other offerings to pay homage to the Buddha. 6. The temple also houses the sacred Emerald Buddha, a statue of the Buddha believed to grant good fortunes to those who gaze upon it. 7. To this day, Wat Phra Mahathat is one of the most important centers of Buddhism in southern Thailand. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.