Wat Phrathat Haripunchai Woramahawihan: A Majestic Temple in Lamphun City
Introduction
Wat Phrathat Haripunchai Woramahawihan, located in the heart of Lamphun city, is a renowned Buddhist temple that holds great historical and cultural significance. Surrounded by roads on all sides, namely Asadharos Road to the North, Chaimongkol Road to the South, Ropmueang Road to the East, and Inthayongyos Road to the West, this temple is easily accessible to visitors. Built in 1108 during the reign of King Athitayarat, Wat Phrathat Haripunchai Woramahawihan has become a prominent religious site in the region.
The Archway: A Testament to Ancient Craftsmanship
Before entering the temple area, visitors are greeted by a magnificent archway that showcases exquisite craftsmanship from the Sriwichai period. This brick arch, adorned with intricate patterns, consists of a tiered structure. Standing on a 1-meter high platform in front of the arch are a pair of majestic lions. This archway, built during the reign of King Athitayarat, symbolizes the king’s dedication of the palace as a sanctuary.
Wihan Luang: The Grand Temple
Upon passing through the arch, visitors will encounter the imposing Wihan Luang. This magnificent temple, surrounded by a balcony and adorned with a porch at the front and back, was constructed in 1915 to replace the old Wihan. Wihan Luang serves as a venue for merit-making ceremonies and daily religious activities. Inside, three Buddha images made of brick and cement, gilded in lacquer and placed on a glass pedestal, grace the interior. Additionally, numerous medium-sized metal Buddha images from the early and middle Chiang Saen periods can be found within the temple.
Phra Borommathat Haripunchai: A Sacred Relic
Located behind Wihan Luang, Phra Borommathat Haripunchai houses the Buddha’s hair relics in a golden urn. The chedi (stupa) is characterized by a lotus-shaped base adorned with miniature glass beads. Adjacent to the lotus base is a three-tiered circular base that supports a bell-shaped structure. This chedi bears a resemblance to the renowned Phrathat Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. A two-storey porch, featuring an iron and brass fence with a golden samphao (mythical lion) enshrined on the outer fence, surrounds the chedi. Arches can be found in both the north and south directions, while the four corners are beautifully tiered. Each side of the chedi contains Buddha images, and lanterns and altars are present for lay Buddhists to worship.
Phra Borommathat Haripunchai has been a significant sanctuary in Lanna since ancient times. Every year, on the full moon day of the 6th lunar month (May), a ceremony is held to worship and bathe the Buddha’s relics. According to historical records, King Athitayarat of the Raman Dynasty, who ruled Lamphun, constructed a gold urn containing relics in 897. The chedi has undergone several renovations, with King Tilokarat of Chiang Mai transforming it into its present Lankan style in 1443.
Phra Suwan Chedi: A Marvel of Architecture
Situated on the right side of Phra Borommathat, Phra Suwan Chedi was built in the 12th century by Queen Pathumwadi, the consort of King Athitayarat. This square prang-shaped chedi showcases the Lavo style and features a Buddha image in the Khmer facade. The top of the chedi is covered with brass, while a room containing amulets can be found beneath the lower base.
Visiting Wat Phrathat Haripunchai Woramahawihan
Wat Phrathat Haripunchai Woramahawihan welcomes visitors daily from 06:00 to 18:00 Hrs. An admission fee of 20 Baht is required to enter the temple premises. For more information, please contact the temple at Tel. 0 5356 3612 and 08 9955 2174.
Conclusion
Wat Phrathat Haripunchai Woramahawihan stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Lamphun city. With its grand architecture, historical relics, and religious significance, this temple attracts both local devotees and tourists from around the world. The intricate craftsmanship displayed in the archway and the awe-inspiring beauty of Wihan Luang leave visitors in awe. The sacred Phra Borommathat Haripunchai, housing the Buddha’s hair relics, serves as a focal point for spiritual worship. Furthermore, the remarkable Phra Suwan Chedi showcases the architectural prowess of the Lavo style. A visit to Wat Phrathat Haripunchai Woramahawihan offers a profound cultural and spiritual experience that should not be missed.
Address And Location:
Nai Mueang Mueang Lamphun Lamphun 51000