Wat Phra That Jom Mon ‘Sparkling and amazing’

Wat Phra That Chom Mon is one of the four sacred stupas in Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son Province, alongside Wat Phra That Chom Chaeng, Wat Phra That Chom Kitti, Wat Phra That Chom Tong. This temple is not only a spiritual center for local villagers but also a fascinating place to learn about local history, art, and culture.

History

Wat Phra That Chom Mon boasts a long history intertwined with various ethnic groups in the area. Evidence found at “Koo Kham” suggests it was built during the reign of King Saen Mueang Ma, a monarch of the Mangrai Dynasty in Chiang Mai, around 1392 CE. Prince Saen Kham was the one who oversaw its construction, and his ashes are believed to be enshrined at Koo Kham, located in the vicinity of the present-day ubosot (ordination hall).

Later, in 1600 CE (during the reign of King Naresuan the Great), as the kingdom recovered, Mon people fleeing from Myanmar settled in this area. They, along with the Thai, Shan, Karen, and Lawa communities, collaboratively restored Wat Phra That Chom Mon, which had fallen into significant disrepair, leaving only ruins. In 1910 CE, a Karen family, led by elders Pho Thao Mon Janu and Mae Mon Yo Hae Pikul, undertook the construction of a new chedi to enclose the old one.

Further, in 1997 CE, the temple initiated a project to enlarge and heighten the original structure. During this renovation, sacred relics, including parts of the Buddha’s jawbone (Phra Hanu) and chest bone (Phra Urangkhathat), were enshrined. Additionally, 1,000 glass relics donated by Khun Rattana Porn Jongjitnan were placed within. Wat Phrathat Chom Mon was officially recognized as a temple on May 17, 1999 CE, and later received a royal decree for its ordination hall (Wisungkhamsima).

Art and Architecture

Despite the name including “Mon,” the art and architecture found within the temple today, especially after multiple renovations, showcase a seamless blend of various styles, including Chinese, Thai, and Lanna influences. The current structures and artifacts reflect these diverse influences.

• The Chedi: This is the primary sacred monument. While the original chedi might have had Mon and Burmese artistic influences, the construction of the new outer chedi in 1997 CE altered its external appearance. Notably, the decoration frequently features Burmese-style mirror mosaics from the bell-shaped body to the spire, a distinctive local decorative characteristic.

• Interior Decorations: The interior is remarkable for its blend of materials and patterns, including carved wood, perforated zinc, gilded mirror work, and sometimes even “zinc balls” used for decoration. This creates a unique and somewhat contemporary aesthetic. While not purely traditional Mon art, it reflects the adaptive tastes and skills of local artisans.

• Viharn (Assembly Hall): The structure may exhibit Lanna architectural influences, with side porticoes extending from the main hall, a feature found in some restored Lanna viharns.

Surrounding Atmosphere and Temple Highlights

Wat Phra That Chom Mon is situated on a hill in Phra Malo Village, Ban Kat Sub-district, offering beautiful scenery and a peaceful, shady, and pleasant atmosphere throughout the year.

• Temple Access: You can drive directly to the top of the stupa. For those seeking a more engaging experience, there’s a staircase adorned with Naga (mythical serpent) balustrades, comprising 339 steps. The ascent is shaded by trees and offers pleasant views.

• Stupa Plaza and Viewpoint: The area around the stupa provides a magnificent panoramic viewpoint of Mae Sariang town, offering wide vistas of houses, rice fields, and mountains. It’s an ideal spot to watch the sunset, as the golden light bathing the stupa creates a majestic and sacred ambiance.

• Other Sacred Objects: Within the temple grounds, there are numerous other sacred objects for veneration, such as Luang Pho Chom Chaeng (which might refer to an ancient Buddha image within the temple or have a connection to another Phra That Chom Chaeng stupa).

• Narakphum (Hell Realm Diorama): Some sources mention the restoration of a “Hell Pavilion” or statues depicting “Preta” (hungry ghosts), which serve as a moral teaching, urging people to abstain from evil and do good. This could be an interesting point for those interested in Buddhist ethics. (This information may need current verification at Wat Phra That Chom Mon itself, as similar descriptions are associated with Wat Phra That Chom Chaeng in Phrae.)

Local Reverence

Wat Phra That Chom Mon is highly revered by the local people in Mae Sariang, especially the various ethnic groups who have coexisted there for centuries, such as the Mon, Shan (Tai Yai), and Karen (Pwo Karen), who have significantly contributed to the temple’s restorations throughout its history.

• Local Beliefs: Locals believe that Wat Phra That Chom Mon is a highly sacred stupa. Visiting and paying respects is believed to bring auspiciousness and miraculous good fortune into one’s life.

• The Four Chom Stupas: Wat Phra That Chom Mon is one of the “Four Chom Stupas” that are deeply revered by the people of Mae Sariang. According to local belief, visiting all four stupas brings great prosperity and blessings to oneself and one’s family.

• Annual Festival: An annual stupa celebration is held in July, a significant event that draws both locals and tourists to participate in the rituals and activities associated with the stupa.

Tourist Information, Highlights, and Things to Do

Highlights:

• Wat Phra That Chom Mon Stupa: The central and majestic sacred monument perched atop the hill, boasting a rich history.

• Mae Sariang Town Viewpoint: A beautiful panoramic vista of the town and surrounding mountains, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.

• 339-Step Naga Staircase: For those who enjoy exercise and a serene walk amidst nature on the way up.

• Blended Architecture: The interior decorations and architectural elements showcasing a unique fusion of various ethnic art styles.

Things to Do:

1. Pay Respects to the Stupa: Offer prayers and seek blessings for auspiciousness, following local beliefs and traditions.

2. Ascend the Naga Staircase: Experience the climb, enjoying the views and natural surroundings along the path.

3. Enjoy the Panoramic Views: Capture breathtaking photos of Mae Sariang from above, especially during the cool early morning or the soft light of evening.

4. Learn About History and Culture: Explore the temple’s origins, its connections to diverse ethnic groups, and local beliefs.

5. Participate in Annual Traditions: If visiting in July, join the annual stupa festival to experience the community’s culture and devotion.

6. Explore Other Structures: Wander through the temple grounds to admire the unique blended artistry and architecture.

Getting There

Phra That Chom Mon temple is conveniently located close to Mae Sariang town.

• By Car/Motorbike: From the main town center of Mae Sariang, head west towards the Ban Kat Sub-district. The temple is situated on a prominent hill and is well-signposted. You can drive directly up to the temple grounds, where parking is available.

• On Foot: For those staying in central Mae Sariang and looking for a bit of exercise, you could consider walking to the base of the hill and then ascending the 339 steps. This offers a more immersive experience.

Wat Phra That Chom Mon is truly a must-visit destination when in Mae Sariang, as it offers not only spiritual merit but also a profound experience of natural beauty, history, and the deep-rooted local culture.