Description
Wat Chaeng Saeng Arun (วัดแจ้งแสงอรุณ) in Na Hua Bo has perhaps the largest collection of Buddhist statues in Sakon Nakhon province. As you arrive at the entrance to the temple, you'll be greeted by two large Yaksha guardians, impressive in their detail and color. Passing through the gate, you'll then see a line of 15 large Buddha statues in the pose of the Bhumisparsa Mudra (which signifies the Buddha's awakening), except for the center Buddha, who is in the pose of the Vitarka Mudra (signifying the teaching of the Dharma). Above the entire row of Buddhas stands an androgynous gold Buddha statue in a welcoming pose.
After the Buddha column, you'll see open pavilions and a courtyard with an extraordinary collection of Buddhist and Hindu statues. Previously, we had thought that Wat Tham Chang in the Phu Phan Mountains had the largest, and most diverse collection of sculptures in Sakon Nakhon. But Wat Chaeng Saeng Arun exceeds Wat Tham Chang in sheer number, in part due to its wide array of Naga sculptures.
However, you will find much more than Naga serpents at Wat Chaeng Saeng Arun. Indeed, you will find Buddhist and Hindu figures that we have seen nowhere else in Sakon Nakhon, such as the rarely seen Thepnorasi, a half-man and half-lion guardian, as well as unique examples of Phra Mae, Phra Narai, Phra Phrom, and much more.
Please don't confuse Wat Chaeng Saeng Arun in Phanna Nikhom (พรรณานิคม) with the Royal Monastery Wat Chaeng Saeng Arun, which is located in Sakon Nakhon city. This village temple isn't that far from the downtown: about 25 minutes from Sakon Nakhon Rajabhat University when driving toward Udon Thani. On your way, we suggest also visiting Wat Sapansri, which contributes a beautiful float every year to the Wax Castle Parade.
Wat Chaeng Saeng Arun is currently building a large chedi (which undoubtedly will be quite beautiful), so in the future there will be yet another reason to visit this fascinating Sakon Nakhon temple. View more photos at our Wat Chaeng Saeng Arun Photo Gallery.
