Wat Sa Bo Kaeo

📍 Location of Wat Sa Bo Kaeo 🚘 Directions to Wat Sa Bo Kaeo

About Wat Sa Bo Kaeo

The Shan temples are a sight to behold, with their unique wooden structures that offer a different kind of allure compared to the usual Thai temples. The most peculiar feature is the chedi (stupa), which has been recently refurbished in an unusual combination of pink and gold, accompanied by bright blue guardian figures.

The temple has a rich history, dating back to the late nineteenth century. This was a time when the British had significant timber concessions in the Phrae area and often employed Burmese workers. The Burmese-style wat, with its multi-tiered roof and yellow fretwork, is a testament to that period. Although the main hall was closed during a recent visit, the grounds and the sculpture garden were open for exploration, offering a glimpse into the temple's past.

The temple is a Tai Yai (Myanmar) style temple in Phrae, housing two Buddha statues, Phra Upacud and Phra Bua Kem. These statues are believed to grant wishes related to career advancement or business success. Once the wish is granted, it is customary to return and make merit with offerings of nine types of fruits, nine jasmine garlands, and money.

The exterior of the temple is particularly striking, with its Burmese style and golden Buddha statues nestled in the trees behind the temple. The interior, however, may not be as impressive to some.

The temple is well worth a visit, with its interesting Burmese style wat and a striking tower with multi-tiered square roofs adorned in gingerbread designs. In front of the tower, a forest of little golden stupas and Buddha images adds to the temple's charm.

The temple is unique compared to traditional Thai temples, as it is built more in the Burmese style of Buddhist temples. Many Burmese monks studying Buddhism in Thailand choose to base themselves at this temple. The main ubosot/bot, with its impressive multi-tiered, staggered roof, is built in wood and is located on the upper floor. The temple houses several Buddha shrines, each with its own unique style. One of the highlights of the temple is a large bronze statue of a monk looking towards the heavens, known for granting wishes in return for an offering.

The temple is also known for its distinctive pink paint, which adds a touch of creativity to the wooden building and the chedi. The temple is a peaceful location in the middle of the town and is worth a stop on any cultural tour. Despite its location, the temple offers a serene environment, with a number of Buddha images adding to its tranquility.