Wat Phra Kaeo Kamphaeng Phet

Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) in Kamphaeng Phet has the same name meaning as Wats Phra Kaeo in Chiang Rai, Bangkok and Vientaine Laos. This temple is a fine example of Kamphang Phet art style and architecture and is located in a complete and well preserved heritage park.
The temple comprises the following major sites. (1) The Main Stupa, (2) the Assembly Hall, (3) the Two Seated Buddha images (in the style, subduing Mara) and the reclining Buddha, (4) the lion and elephant base sculptures, (5) the reclining Buddha Statues, (6) the laterite remains of numerous Buddha images and (7) the general setting within the walled ancient City walls.

The Main Stupa. The main Stupa at Wat Phra Kaeo is made of laterite and comprises a bell shaped body seated on a circular base with 16 niches each originally containing a Buddha image. Around the base are 32 sculptured animals, (stucco on laterite brick forms). Additionally there are three large Buddha images with numerous small ones in the upper niches.
The Assembly Hall with the major Buddha Images. Here these three images are easily recognized by their Kamphaeng Phet style with square heads, slanted eyes, small chin and continuous eyebrows.
Wat Phra Kaeo was once a royal temple and once housed the famous and sacred Emerald Buddha, now housed in Bangkok. Here are the serene trio of Buddha images, (restored), two sitting and one reclining. They are portrayed in the Kamphaeng Phet style of broad foreheads and square chins. The rest of the ruins comprise the laterite foundations and weathered pillars. Whilst the monuments here are not as significant as at Si Satchanalai and Sukhothai, a visit here to walk within the walled enclosure through what is now a lovely treed park, is the third location of choice when coming to Sukhothai.