Of the numerous temples found in the province of Lampang, Wat Pong Sanuk was given the “Award of Merit” from the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Cultural Conservation in 2008. Thanks to the locals, this millennia-old temple is definitely one of the most beautiful and most visited in the province.

The award was given because of the collective efforts of local residents, monks, artisans, and local authorities which helped to save and restore this unique and charming temple. The name of the temple according to legend comes from the Pong Sanuk community that used to live in the area. Translated from Thai, Pong Sanuk means “the clan of fun”.

The temple is divided into two sections; Pong Sanuk Nua (North) and Pong Sanuk Tai (South). You will notice that one section of the temple is built on a mound. This mound symbolizes Mount Meru, home of the gods. The temple is a combination of Lanna and Burmese Styles. One of the most prominent features of the temple is the multi-layered roof and cruciform-shaped pavilion. Sitting underneath the roof are four Buddha images; each one faces one of the cardinal points. Look closely on the support beams of the pavilion and you will also notice plenty of Buddhist tablets; there are over 1,000 tablets.

Another feature of the temple is the reclining Buddha found inside the temple hall. Also inside the temple hall are chests of various sizes and designs. These chests are said to contain relics and Buddhist scrolls. The ancient people of Lanna call these chests Heep Thum. You will get to see plenty of Buddhist art and designs throughout the entire compound.

As soon as you walk into the temple’s compound, you will be taken away by the beautiful and well-preserved designs and artworks of the temple. It is because of the locals that everyone, Thai and foreign, can enjoy viewing ancient Lanna and Burmese styled temples.

Address : Moo Ban Pong Sanuk, Wiang Nua Sub-district, Mueang District, Lampang Contact : 054-228763

GPS : 18.294200, 99.496900

Website : http://province.m-culture.go.th/lampang/wat/w6.html

Opening Hrs. : 05.30 -  20.30

Best Time : To avoid the sun on a hot day, visit the temple late in

Highlight : Reclining Buddha/ Cruciform Pavilion/ 1,000+ Buddhist Tablets/ Beautiful design and architecture.

Activities : Sight-seeing/ Praying

Cross Ratcha Pisek Bridge. Do not turn left directly after the bridge. Continue down the road until the intersection then turn left onto Pong Sanuk Rd. Keep going for a bit more. The temple is on your right.