About Wat Chulamani
Wat Chulamani is a working monastery on the east bank of the Nan River, just south of Phitsanulok. Its Khmer-style tower is built of laterite and still has some of its stucco, which is rare. How old the tower is gets argued about, with guesses from the 12th to the 14th century. The temple's other claim is royal: King Borommatrailokkanat of Ayutthaya re-established the monastery in 1464, and the chronicles say he became a monk here. Monks live here, so dress as you would for any Thai temple.
Things to do at Wat Chulamani
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Look at the stucco on the tower
Culture
The laterite tower still has some of its carved stucco, which most towers this old have lost.
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Read the royal story
Culture
King Borommatrailokkanat of Ayutthaya re-established the monastery in 1464 and is said to have become a monk here.
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Dress for a working temple
Culture
Monks live here. Cover your shoulders and knees, and keep your voice down.
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Add it to a Phitsanulok day
Culture
It's a short ride south of town, so it fits with the city's other temples.
Boat trips and park access change with the season and weather, so confirm locally before you go.
When to go
Best months for The North: Nov to Jan. Month-by-month guide
- Jan Best
- Feb Good
- Mar Avoid
- Apr Avoid
- May Mixed
- Jun Mixed
- Jul Mixed
- Aug Mixed
- Sep Mixed
- Oct Good
- Nov Best
- Dec Best
Regional weather guide, not specific to Wat Chulamani. Tap a month for details.
