Overview:

Wat Phra That Kham Kaen - Khon Kaen in Thailand is a Buddhist temple located in Khon Kaen City in the northeastern Isan region of Thailand. The temple is believed to have been established in the late 19th century and is best known for its large Buddha statue that dates back to the Ayutthaya period. It is one of the most important Buddhist sites of the region and is visited by a large number of people every year. The temple is home to various shrines and statues and is often used as a venue for religious ceremonies. Visitors to the temple can also take some time to explore the temple grounds which include a number of covered pavilions, an ornamental pond and a large library of religious texts. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

1. The tall, gold-covered Chedi (stupa) of Wat Phra That Kham Kaen is the most dominant feature of the temple complex and is the centerpiece of worship. 2. The temple is surrounded by ancient walls and the large, elaborately-decorated main gate greets visitors entering the complex. 3. Several pavilions in the temple complex house a variety of Buddhas from different periods of Thai history, some of which are revered as significant and sacred symbols of Thailand. 4. An expansive courtyard welcomes visitors and the Wihan, which houses the primary Buddha image, as well as its smaller replicas, is a key focal area of worship. 5. Of particular interest to those researching and learning about Thai culture and history is the library of manuscripts and other texts, housed within the temple. 6. To the right of the main entrance is an extensive garden filled with fruit trees, ponds, exotic plants and flowers, and a variety of wildlife. 7. The interior of the temple complex is home to an impressive collection of more than 200 mural paintings which tell the story of Buddhist philosophy and ways of life. 8. A moderate-sized standing Buddha and several related sculptures dotting the temple grounds strengthen the atmosphere of serenity and peacefulness. 9. Demonstrating the importance of monks in the Khon Kaen area, the temple boasts a number of monks’ living quarters, monk’s dormitories, and an assembly hall for major functions. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Phra That Kham Kaen, also known as “The Golden Monk”, is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Khon Kaen, Thailand. The temple is known for its impressive gold-covered statue of the Buddha which stands 19.5 metres tall. It is one of the oldest and most important temples in Khon Kaen and is synonymous with the city. The temple has a long history and has seen many periods of growth and decline. The original temple was built in the 16th century to serve as a center for Buddhist learning and worship. The temple was then expanded and renovated by King Rama IV in the 19th century. During this period, the large gold-covered Buddha statue was erected, which became the centerpiece of the temple. During the 20th century, the temple saw another major renovation when it was redesigned and renovated in a unique fusion of modern and traditional styles. In the 21st century, Wat Phra That Kham Kaen is an important temple visited by thousands of local and international visitors each year. It continues to serve as an important religious and cultural center in Khon Kaen, hosting cultural events and religious ceremonies throughout the year. The temple is also home to several rare and ancient artifacts, including some precious relics from its past. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Phra That Kham Kaen – Khon Kaen is one of Thailand’s most important Buddhist monuments, the spiritual home of millions of Thai Buddhists from all over the country. 2. It was constructed in 1443 by King Tilokkarat-The Great, the ruler of the Lanna kingdom. 3. The chedi (stupa) at Wat Phra That Kham Kaen is a replica of the original chedi that was built in Uttaradit, in Northern Thailand. 4. The chedi is believed to contain a piece of bone of the historical Buddha himself. 5. Surrounding the chedi are four white stucco sculptures which represent a pair of Naga (mythical serpent) guardian deities. 6. The chedi and the four guardian statues are considered walking guardians who come to life at night to protect the temple from evil forces. 7. Wat Phra That Kham Kaen is located in the city of Khon Kaen. 8. Every year on the full moon day of the 6th lunar month, the wat traditionally hosts an annual fair in honour of the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and passing away. 9. During the fair, many stalls selling various handicrafts and traditional snacks are set up, and religious ceremonies like alms-giving and offerings to monks also take place. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.