If you happen to be visiting the ancient ruins of Sukhothai, be sure to stop by at Wat Srichumand Wat Phra Phai Luang temples. Both of these temples are of historical significance in Thai history, and can be found just outside the old city wall.

Wat Srichum is located on the outer side of the moat that surrounds the old city wall. The intriguing aspect of this temple is its cubed shape. The walls of the temple used to have murals and inscriptions, but time and tourists have cause both to fade away. The Buddha image inside the temple is formally called ‘Phra Achana’, but also goes by the name of‘Phra Pood Dai’ that translates to ‘the speaking Buddha’. It is in a sitting position and measures 11.3 meters in length.

The origin of the name ‘Phra Pood Dai’ comes from the time of King Naresuan. During this period in Thai history, various rulers fought one another for control of Siam (Thailand). Before battle, King Naresuan saw that his army was low on morale and therefore set up camp at Wat Srichum. In order to boost their spirits, the king made one of the soldiers stand behind the Buddha image and give a motivational talk. The soldiers actually believed that the Buddha image was talking to them and thus the nickname was born.

Across from Wat Srichum is Wat Phra Phai Luang. The features of this temple are the three towers, however, only one remains that is partially intact. Though the temple’s design is Thai and Cambodian in style, several artifacts found at the temple point to Hinduism as the prevalent religion in this area before the kingdom of Sukhothai was created!

Address : Mueang Kao Sub-district, Mueang District, Sukhothai 64000

GPS :

• Wat Srichum 17.02691, 99.69364
• Wat Phra Phai Luang 17.02912, 99.70040

Contact no. : 055 697 527

Fax. : 055 697 310

Website : http://www.sukhothai.go.th/tour/tour_01.htm

Opening Hrs. : Open every day from 7.30-17.30

Entrance Fee : Thai 20 Baht; Foreigner 100 Baht

Best time : Early morning or late in the afternoon

Highlight : Phra Poud Dai, The speaking Buddha, The towers of Wat Phra Phai Luang

Activities : Edutainment, Sight-seeing, Photography

The historical park is located some 12 kilometers from town. Take Route 12, the same direction as going to Tak province, to the old city. Drive around the city wall to get to Wat Srichum; just follow the signs. Wat Phra Phai Luang is on the opposite side of Wat Srichum.