Wat Chedi Kiri Wihan

Wat Chedi Kiri Wihan sits in Fai Luang subdistrict, Laplae district, about 10km from Uttaradit town via Highway 1043 — not, despite the confusion its name sometimes causes, inside the Sukhothai Historical Park. Entry is free, open daily from 08:00 to 17:00. Temple legend traces its founding to roughly 1,000 years ago, when Chao Fa Ham Kuman, described as the first ruler of ancient Laplae, built a chedi here to enshrine Buddha relics brought from Chiang Rai’s Doi Tung.

The temple’s original name was Wat Pa Kaeo, and its centrepiece is a large bell-shaped chedi in the Lanka (Sri Lankan-influenced) style, roughly 10 metres in diameter and 26 metres tall, with four arched niches at its base and smaller stupas at each corner. The Fine Arts Department has registered it as a national historical monument. The principal Buddha image inside is rendered in the Sukhothai artistic style — a period detail in the sculpture, not evidence that the temple itself dates from Sukhothai’s era or sits within that kingdom’s old capital.

In March 2024, Uttaradit’s governor led a ceremony draping royal cloth, donated by Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana, over the chedi — an event locals describe as recognising it as “the first chedi of Laplae district.” The temple belongs to the Mahanikaya monastic order and functions as an active place of worship rather than a roped-off ruin, so expect ordinary temple etiquette rather than a museum visit.

Insider Tip: Pair the visit with the Chao Fah Han Kuman Monument, a short drive away in the same subdistrict — a hilltop equestrian statue of the same legendary king credited with founding this chedi, with valley views over Laplae.

Shade is limited around the main chedi, so early morning keeps both the light and the heat manageable for photos. Cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering any of the halls.