“ Wat Tha Kok ” is the ancient temple that has been located in Chiang Khan for 200 years. In the past, this temple was located on the shore of a whirlfool which Chiang Khan people called “Kok”. Therfore, the name of this temple is “Wat Tha Kok”. It was built in the period when Chiang Khan belonged to Phisanulok Region. In 1852, Phra Sri Akkahart (Sita), the governer of Chiang Khan at that time, and local people tried to protect Siam from invading foreigners in the colonization time. Phra Sri Akkahart therefore built this temple to protect the area.
Apart from being one of important ancient places in Chiang Khan District, it is the center of art and culture of many ethnics. In front of the monastery and the window frames were decorated with French art style. It is assumed that the art came from when France colonized the land on Khong River (Laos). The chapel was made from bricks and cemetnt with Lan Chang art style and stucco decoration. The wooden roof was painted with ancient color style. The major Buddha statue in the monastery is in the position of subduing Mara with Lan Chang art style. Chiang Khan people have respected this statue for a long time. In front of the monastery, there is a stone inscription telling about the story of temple construction. It is written in Dhamma Isan alphabets.
Wat Tha Kok is situated on the alley no. 21 (down), Sri Chiang Khan Road. Even it is not a big temple, but it can tell the story from the past very well. If you can to “access” Chiang Khan more than you are now, this temple is one of the places that you should not miss.
Travelling From Loei, use the Public Highway No.203 for about 48 kilometers to arrive at Phu Rua District. Turn right on 49th – 50th kilometer at Phu Rua District Office and go straight for 4 kilometers to arrive at the national park bureau.
