Wat Si Khom Kham

Wat Si Khom Kham is the principal Buddhist temple of Phayao, located on the shore of Kwan Phayao lake in Wiang Subdistrict, Mueang Phayao District. It is renowned for enshrining Phra Chao Ton Luang, the largest Chiang Saen-style Buddha image in Thailand, measuring 16 meters high. The temple complex combines historic architecture, murals and a lakeside setting and serves as the most revered religious landmark in Phayao Province.

Visitors can expect a spacious lakeside temple compound with a large viharn housing the monumental Phra Chao Ton Luang Buddha image, surrounding courtyard, smaller chapels, Buddha image museum and murals depicting local history. The grounds are open and tranquil near Kwan Phayao, with areas for merit-making, photography and viewing traditional Lanna architecture. The site is active for worship with monks and local devotees present.

Wat Si Khom Kham is an ancient temple believed to have been founded in the 12th century during the Phayao Kingdom period. Its principal image, Phra Chao Ton Luang, was cast between 1491 and 1524 during the reign of King Muang Kaew of Chiang Mai, taking approximately 33 years to complete. The temple has been restored and remains the most historically important temple in Phayao.

The temple is the most sacred Buddhist site in Phayao Province and a center of local faith. Phra Chao Ton Luang is highly revered by residents and visitors for merit-making and annual religious festivals. The temple reflects Lanna Buddhist art and architecture and plays a central role in community ceremonies and cultural identity.