Wat Traphang Ngoen’s most prominent feature is a lotus-shaped chedi that’s arguably more interesting than the one found at Wat Mahathat.
Travel better, travel smarter
Save money, receive our latest updates and get the most out of your travels.
Just below the upper lotus-bud finial, a tier with perpendicular rivets features four standing Buddha images placed in niches that have provided shelter over the centuries. The fully intact statues display fine details in the meditative faces, headdresses and hands striking different mudras.
Simple beauties at Wat Traphang Ngoen. Photo: David Luekens
Set between the chedi and a wide pond, the remains of a small wihaan features a large seated Buddha that looks very similar to the one found at nearby Wat Sa Si. Centuries of sunbathing have left it infused with a web of cracks but the details remain.
Situated off to the side, don’t miss the stunning walking Buddha image placed in front of a redbrick wall that serves as a frame. Depicted with the right hand held up in the gesture of discussion or debate, it’s a prime example of Sukhothai-style art and arguably the most graceful Buddha image found in the historical park. The mudra may suggest that Wat Traphang Ngoen was used as a venue for scholarly discussions about Buddhist texts and principles.
Seated Buddha with water views. Photo: David Luekens
Traphang Ngoen means “Silver Lake,” a reference to the large pond with an island reachable by a footbridge in front of the temple. Be careful not to mix this one up with Wat Traphang ... Travelfish members only (Around 200 more words) ... 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
(1 reviews)
(711 reviews)
(102 reviews)
(53 reviews)
(12 reviews)
How to get there
Wat Traphang Ngoen is located on the west side of the historical park’s central zone, around 300 metres west of Wat Mahathat. From here it's a short walk northeast to Wat Sa Si, with a small cafe located along the way.
Location map for Wat Traphang Ngoen
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.
