Wat Pa Fang is a beautiful and unknown attraction in Lampang. If you are looking to explore the hidden gems of the city, this temple is definitely worth a visit. This peaceful place is full of architectural wonders and is a great example of the strong influence of Burmese style on temple art in Thailand.
Wat Pa Fang – some important historical facts
Wat Pa Fang, also known as Wat Sasan Chotikaram, was founded in 1892 by a Burmese couple: Thao Ausuay-at and Thao Khamwan Suwanna-at.
In those years, called the golden age of the teak business, many workers and entrepreneurs came to Lampang to work in the lumber industry. Among them were many Burmese as well as Westerners. It was the Burmese who largely contributed to the fact that today Lampang can boast the largest number of temples revealing the influence of Burmese architecture.
In 1906, the temple received a royal charter defining its boundaries. In order to maintain Buddhism and its flourishing, a request was made to the then ruler of Lampang, Bunyawat Wongmanit, to provide land for the construction of an Ordination Hall. It was done, and today you can visit the temple complex, which contains several interesting buildings.
Structures at Wat Pa Fang
Viharn
The Assembly Hall is built half from wood and half from brick. It has a multi-tiered roof, which is typical of Burmese architecture.
Inside the Viharn, you can see the oldest Buddha statue in the temple. He is shown in the Māravijaya attitude. There are also beautiful elements here, including the altar base, capitals, and decorated pillars.
Ubosot
The Ordination Hall is slightly smaller, but here the Burmese style is fully revealed. As in the case of the Assembly Hall, the wooden roof is multi-tiered. The doors and windows are decorated with stucco elements in the form of vines and angels.
The Ubosot also houses a statue called the Ruby Buddha. The Enlightened One is dressed in a robe whose pattern is called the Thousand Eyes, decorated with rare Burmese rubies.
The ceiling is also worth paying attention to. It is lacquered and has 12 panels decorated with stucco and stained glass.
Pagoda
Another excellent example of Burmese style. The pagoda stands on an octagonal base. Around it are smaller chedis, as well as niches with images of Buddha for each day of the week. The stupa is also used to store precious relics of the Buddha.
In addition, the temple complex contains a sacred Bodhi tree brought from Bodh Gaya in India and a sacred well.
Key information for tourists
Location
Wat Pa Fang is located in Phra Bat Sub-District at 69 Sanambin Rd.
Access
The temple is accessible by taxi, songthaew, carriage, or on foot.
Opening hours
From 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Entry fee
Admission is free.
Other attractions near Wat Pa Fang
Across the street 250 m to the south is Wat Chai Mongkol. This is another Burmese temple in the city.
650 m to the north are Museum Lampang and City Pillar Shrine.
Wat Pa Fang – summary
The temple is a good idea if you want to get to know the hidden places in the city better. It is an opportunity to delve deeper into discovering Lampang’s gems and see lesser-known attractions. The convenient location and proximity to other important points make the visit easier. We wish you a pleasant trip.
