Wat Tha Tanon, Sukhothai

The discovery of Luang Pho Phet dates back to 1893. It’s recounted that Luang Pho Duang, the abbot of Wat Mon Mai, stumbled upon the image. Returning from Wat Sawang Arom in Phai Lom Subdistrict, Laplae District, he passed a deserted temple, Wat Sakaem, and noticed a Buddha’s head finial emerged from an anthill. An excavation of the anthill revealed a stunning bronze Buddha image. It was named “Luang Pho Phet” for its so-called diamond posture, and was enshrined at Wat Tha Thanon. After Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok was constructed by King Rama V The Great’s order, Luang Pho Phet was temporarily enshrined there for a decade. Then, Luang Naruenatseni (Phan) took it back to Wat Tha Thanon under the king’s permission.