Wat Chulamani

Wat Chulamani is an ancient Theravada Buddhist temple located on the east bank of the Nan River in Mueang Phitsanulok District, Phitsanulok Province. Notable for its Khmer-influenced prang and historic brick architecture, it dates to the Sukhothai period and was restored in 1461 by King Borommatrailokkanat of Ayutthaya, who was ordained there. It remains an active temple and important archaeological site south of Phitsanulok city centre.

Visitors can expect a historic temple compound with a prominent old Khmer-style prang, later viharn and ubosot buildings, Buddha images, and ancient brick ruins set in a quiet riverside setting. The grounds are open and park-like with mature trees, chedis and restored structures. Visitors can walk around the prang, observe active worship areas, view architectural details and murals, and experience a calm, local temple atmosphere away from the central city.

Wat Chulamani is believed to have been originally built in the Sukhothai period and is one of the oldest temples in Phitsanulok. It was extensively restored in 1461 by King Borommatrailokkanat of Ayutthaya, who later ordained as a monk here for eight months with over 2,000 followers, making it a significant royal temple in Thai history. The Khmer-style prang reflects earlier architectural influence.

An active Theravada Buddhist temple revered by local residents, Wat Chulamani serves as a place of worship, merit-making and religious ceremonies. Its ancient prang and historic structures represent the continuity of Buddhist architecture from Sukhothai to Ayutthaya periods and remain an important cultural landmark for Phitsanulok.