Wat Chang Lom, A Timeless Sanctuary Adorned by Elephant Reliefs

Wat Chang Lom, Si Satchanalai, 64190 Thailand

Introduction

A not so obvious junction on Highway 12, without visible signs or instructions. I had to ask the locals for help, luckily the place names were in Thai, otherwise it would have been difficult to find my way here. On the left side (north) after entering the junction, there is an inconspicuous road, with an unremarkable building across from it. After turning left, crossing a small bridge, and then turning right, I finally found it. It is not very large, about the same size as Wat Kowloon. It is a stupa that still retains its elephant base, located about 1 kilometer east of the historical park. The base of the stupa is made up of 32 elephant-shaped structures, made of brick, with a unique design. The outer layer of stucco, which was decorated with flint, easily falls off. It symbolizes the mythical mount Sumeru carried by elephants. A similar style of stupa can also be seen at the Khmer archaeological sites of Phanom Rung and Phimai. At the entrance of the temple, there is a detailed map showing the entire area of the Sukhothai Historical Park, with the shape of the temple clearly marked, making it convenient for visitors to compare. The whole site is not very large. As I was leaving, I could see a resort opposite, which appeared to be undergoing renovation.