Phra Chao Ton Luang is officially named Phra Chao Si Sakayamuni Sammathayat Khotama.
The temple was originally established as a center of learning during the reign of Phaya Yilang of the Phayao Kingdom.
The Buddha image was cast over a period of 33 years, completed around 1491.
The temple grounds contain a dedicated 'Hell Garden' area depicting traditional Buddhist concepts of afterlife karma.
The name 'Sri Khom Kham' is derived from a local dialect meaning the temple of the great gold image.
The site hosts the annual Ton Luang Festival, attracting pilgrims from across Northern Thailand.
Wat Sri Khom Kham is the most significant temple in Phayao, situated on the western shore of Phayao Lake. The temple is home to Phra Chao Ton Luang, a massive 16-meter-high seated Buddha image constructed in the 15th century. This golden statue is the largest of its kind in the Lanna Kingdom and serves as a major symbol for the province. The temple complex features a distinct vihara with a multi-tiered roof and intricate wooden carvings. A museum on-site houses ancient palm-leaf manuscripts and historical artifacts recovered from the region. The grounds extend to the lakefront, providing a view of the water and the surrounding mountains. It remains an active site of pilgrimage for local Buddhists during major religious festivals.
The lakeside vantage point that captures both the golden Buddha hall and the water of Phayao Lake in a single frame.
Walk through the garden area toward the lake edge for a quieter atmosphere away from the main prayer hall.
Visit the small museum to view the preserved ancient Lanna scripts.
Remove footwear before stepping onto the platforms of the main sanctuary.
Avoid taking photographs of worshippers while they are in active prayer; do not point your feet toward Buddha statues.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; remove shoes before entering the main vihara; maintain a quiet demeanor inside buildings.
