In the heart of Nan, a small northern province of Thailand, stands a temple draped in gold — Wat Si Phan Ton (วัดศรีพันต้น).
From afar, it gleams under the sun. Up close, it reveals its quiet beauty through intricate carvings, mythical creatures, and meditative stillness.
I walked its grounds one morning — camera in hand, heart open — and these seven photos are what I brought back.
Main Hall (Ubosot) in Full Gold
Every surface glows.
Under the morning sun, the entire hall seems to breathe light.
Temple Bell with Golden Backdrop
The bell hangs in stillness, waiting to be heard.
Like a question left unanswered — or a call to pause.
Monk Walking Past the Temple Wall
Barefoot. Orange robes. Gold wall.
A moment that lasted just a second — and felt eternal.
Ceiling Close-Up Inside the Hall
Painted panels and golden chandeliers reflect both art and devotion.
Even above, the spirit of the place speaks softly.
Ornate Door Carvings with Mythical Patterns
The details are almost overwhelming — dragons, leaves, curves.
A thousand thoughts carved into quietness.
Wat Si Phan Ton is a gleaming highlight of Nan town, located at the busy corner of Chao Fa Road. Its dazzling golden viharn (assembly hall) instantly captures attention with resplendent gilding and intricate details in teak and stucco. This elegant exterior sets the tone for its spiritual and visual impact
Though small, this golden temple is a must-see for anyone exploring Nan. Beyond its gilded beauty and detailed murals, it houses a ceremonial longboat used in Nan River races—another local icon. Wat Si Phan Ton captures both the artistic legacy and living traditions of Nan’s community life
Guarding the stairs are seven-headed Nāga sculpted by local master craftsman Anurak Somsak (known as “Salangrong”), their forms alive with myth and movement. Inside, the hall features murals that depict the Buddha’s life and the founding history of Nan in delicate, natural-toned linework—authentically painted by local artists
Founded by Phraya Pan Ton of the Phuka dynasty (reigned 1960–1969 BE), the temple bears his name. Its historic significance was officially recognized when it was granted temple boundaries (wisungkhamsima) in 1962. The temple was also home to the revered Luang Pu Kru Chantha, a monk known for healing practices using chants, blessed water, and herbal medicine
Despite its central location, Wat Si Phan Ton offers a surprisingly contemplative atmosphere. Visit early in the morning for peaceful surroundings, soft chanting, and attentive monks engaged in daily rites. Modest attire is encouraged to honor local customs. The temple’s modest size (often a brief visit) contributes to its charm and focus on peaceful reverence
Golden Naga Staircase Guarding the Entrance
The Naga serpent rises in gold and blue, coiling in elegance.
It feels like stepping into a story — one written in light and scale.
Panoramic View of the Temple Complex
Wat Si Phan Ton, surrounded by blue skies and peace.
A reminder that sacred doesn’t always need to be silent — sometimes, it shines.
Wat Si Phan Ton isn’t a place you rush through.
You walk, look, breathe — and somewhere in between, you feel something shift.
Maybe it’s stillness. Maybe it’s awe. Maybe it’s simply gold reflecting back your own light.
No comments:
Post a Comment