Wat Si Sawai
Ancient Hindu sanctuary
Published/Last edited or updated: 16th June, 2016
More on Sukhothai
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.
Travelfish says:
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.
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.
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 selfie snappers.
Transport information
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.
Contact details for Wat Si Sawai
Address: Sukhothai Historic Park
Coordinates (for GPS): 99º42'8.32" E, 17º0'47.5" N
See position in Apple or Google Maps: Apple Maps | Google Maps
Reviewed by
David Luekens
David Luekens first came to Thailand in 2005 when Thai friends from his former home of Burlington, Vermont led him on a life-changing trip. Based in Thailand since 2011, he spends much of his time eating in Bangkok street markets and island hopping the Andaman Sea.
