Quite unlike any other site in the historical park, Wat Si Sawai was initially a Hindu sanctuary that was adapted into a Buddhist temple during the Sukhothai period. Exquisite lintels still grace parts of its three Khmer-style prangs, probably built when the Lavo (Lopburi) kingdom controlled the area as a branch of the Khmer empire.
Fronting the complex is a stone base and pillars of a Buddhist wihaan, the last structure to be built on the site. Expect to encounter visitors snapping selfies framed by the brick entranceway with the central prang in the background. From here you can step inside the musty reliquary, where an ancient image of Shiva was discovered in the early 20th century. These days it’s a prime nesting space for pigeons.
Intricate prang at Wat Si Sawai. Photo: David Luekens
Ancient carvings can be seen on all three of the prangs, including some that appear to mimic designs found on Chinese Yuan Dynasty ceramics. One lintel depicts Vishnu reclining on a naga seat, while others display Kali’s wild-eyed grin and a range of other Hindu characters. The intricate details are quite incredible for a site that’s probably more than 1,000 years old.
Look carefully. Photo: David Luekens
Beyond the trio of prangs there’s not much else to see at Wat Si Sawai, but you could stroll beneath the broad old mango and golden shower trees or wander out to the back walls of the complex to avoid the ... please log in to read the rest of this story.
Don’t miss the boat!
Please subscribe to Travelfish.org to read the rest of this article, or log in here.
Subscribing to Travelfish costs A$35 per year and it gets you access to more than 200 downloadable guides to specific destinations, fabulous discount coupons and 50% off our personalised travel planning service. Sign up here.
By
David Luekens.
Last updated on 16th June, 2016.
Popular hotels in Sukhothai on Agoda
(627 reviews)
(1,006 reviews)
(2,135 reviews)
(391 reviews)
How to get there
Wat Si Sawai is located in the south side of the historical park’s central zone. From here we suggest heading northwest to Wat Traphang Ngoen.
Location map for Wat Si Sawai
Start planning your holiday today
Sent every Monday, our newsletter is full of travel advice, news & special deals. Read past issues.
Popular attractions in Sukhothai
A selection of some of our favourite sights and activities around Sukhothai.
Best places to stay in Sukhothai
A selection of some of our favourite places to stay in Sukhothai.
What next?
Browse our independent reviews of places to stay in and around Sukhothai.
Check prices, availability & reviews on Agoda or Booking
Read up on where to eat on Sukhothai.
Check out our listings of things to do in and around Sukhothai.
Read up on how to get to Sukhothai, or book your transport online with 12Go Asia.
Do you have travel insurance yet? If not, find out why you need it.
Planning on riding a scooter in Sukhothai? Please read this.
Buy a SIM card for Thailand—pick it up at the airport when you arrive.
Browse the web securely while travelling with TunnelBear. Try with a 7–day free trial.