Wat Phloi Sangvaranirand

Wat Phloi Sangvaranirand is a temple in Thong Saen Khan district, Uttaradit, built around a single large naga-hooded Buddha image rather than an older temple complex. Entry is free and the grounds are open daily 08:00–17:00. The temple is also registered as Uttaradit province’s fourth official meditation practice centre.

The central image, Phra Sarasutthimuninat, is a Naga-Prok Buddha — seated Buddha sheltered by a multi-headed naga hood — 19 metres tall with a 10-metre lap span. Statues of naga kings surround it, including Pu Thana Mun Naga Raja and Mae Ya Ketupathum Nakini, regarded locally as protectors of the Buddha. The temple entrance carries the same theme through: two large dragon statues face each other across the approach, a pairing meant to bring blessings to visitors passing between them.

Insider Tip: The naga theme runs through the entire site rather than being confined to one shrine — worth walking the full grounds rather than photographing the main Buddha and leaving.

Because the temple is built around one large-scale image rather than historic structures, a visit runs shorter than most temple stops — the main draw is the scale and detail of the naga ironwork and statuary rather than architecture to wander through. It sees far fewer visitors than Uttaradit’s better-known sites, which makes it a quiet stop if timed outside weekends.

Watch out: As a working meditation centre as well as a temple, some areas may be reserved for practitioners on retreat — check with temple staff before wandering past the main image.

Getting There

Wat Phloi Sangvaranirand is located at Thong Saen Khan, Uttaradit. View on Google Maps. It pairs well with a wider Uttaradit day out taking in Sirikit Dam or the Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Memorial.

Tips for Visitors

• Dress modestly — cover shoulders and knees. Sarongs may be available at the entrance.
• Remove your shoes before entering any building.
• Keep your voice low and your head below any Buddha images when seated.
• Avoid pointing your feet at Buddha images or monks.