Wat Si Chum, Majestic Buddha, Timeless Serenity

Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai, Sukhothai Province, Thailand 64210

The fingers of the Buddha statue are slim, long and elegant

4.7

Introduction

Wat Sri Chum is located about one kilometer to the west, and is the iconic temple of Sukhothai. Along the way, there is a rugged dirt road that skilled cyclists can choose. The temple's main hall is 15 meters high, covering an area of 3.2 square kilometers, with walls that are 3 meters thick, but without a roof. Inside the main hall is a serene giant seated Buddha statue, measuring 15 meters in height, featuring graceful lines and especially beautiful hand gestures, attracting many tourists to take photos. The statue has been well-preserved since it was restored 50 years ago. According to inscriptions by King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, this statue is referred to as the "Fearless Buddha," with the inscriptions on the top of the tower now sealed and illegible. In front of the central hall is a smaller hall, and behind it is a square-shaped pointed stupa, which houses a seated Buddha statue, with two additional smaller halls nearby, one of which also contains a Buddha statue. Although a ticket was originally required, the ticket vendor has already closed, and as there are still staff members on site, visitors are free to enter and explore the front hall. There is a gap in the middle of the main hall that allows a view of the statue inside, which is a very unique design. The roof of the main hall is open, creating a courtyard-like space, which is quite distinctive. The Buddha statue is adorned with gold paint on its hands. After the visit, the staff will lock the doors, and the main hall is protected by iron railings and gates. There is also a souvenir stall selling local oil paintings at the entrance. The temple is bustling, attracting many Thai tourists for visitation.