Perhaps, Wat Tha Srikhong’s story begins where the river flows. Wat Tha Srikhong stands near the river bank. But it is on the opposite side of Kad Luang Market. You can reach it via the bridge.
The establishment date of Wat Tha Srikhong remains unknown. An inscription on the ubosot’s facade indicates its erection in 1873. The viharn and chedi likely date back to the same era.
Let’s admire the viharn. It showcases intricate carvings on its facade. A triple-tiered roof adorns it. Nagas decorate the bargeboards. Chofa finials sit on each roof’s apex. The gable end presents a carved gilt with zodiac animals in panels. Scrollwork completes the scene. Multi-headed nagas guard the entrance. The viharn stretches longer than usual with six windows per side. Ornamented mouldings frame them. A wire fence now stands before the porch. This suggests interior access may soon be restricted.
Now observe the chedi at Wat Tha Srikhong. Its style is unusual. It is small but its gilt finial is large. It is more than half the structure’s size. The shape is mainly round. Yet heavy indentation obscures its form. It has a square base and a niche with a standing Buddha. Glass protects this figure. The white stucco bell has coloured glass around the rim. Above rises a tall finial. A seven-tier gilt hti umbrella tops it in Burmese style.
Consider the ubosot. Like the viharn, a wire fence surrounds its porch. It follows the viharn’s style. It features a carved foliate gable end. It has a double-tiered roof with nagas and chofa finials. The windows and doorway have richly ornamented mouldings. Wooden doors and shutters bear gilt carvings of Devata figures. Statues of Devata figures flank the main door but they are hard to view due to the fence.
Take a look at the ubosot’s rear wall. Attractive stucco carvings exist in bas-relief. A pair of Devata figures is on each side of a relief. It depicts Indra riding his three-headed elephant Erewan. The elephant’s central head displays fine carving with tusks extending from the wall.
Wat Tha Srikhong welcomes visitors from 6 am to 6 pm daily. There is no charge to enter Wat Tha Srikhong. Take your time to appreciate the temple’s details.