Wat Phrammani (Wat Luang Pho Pak Daeng)

Wat Phrammani is a temple with a tragic history. Japan’s 37th Quartermaster Infantry had based a lethal labor camp at the temple during World War II. Following the end of the war, in 1989, the Friend of Asian Alliance War Association built a memorial to honor the nearly 8,000 labor camp prisoners and soldiers who perished in the war. Ashes of the fallen, once laid to rest in the temple, are now located on the altar of the memorial for those who wish to pay their respects. In addition, the temple houses a much-revered Buddha image, Phra Phuttarup Pak Daeng, or “Red Lipped Buddha Image”, an elaborate statue brought in from Vientiane by immigrant Laotians. However, the abbot must give permission for each viewing of the sacred image. Wat Phrammani is located at Mu 9, Tambon Sarika, Km. 5, on the way to Namtok Sarika (on Highway No. 3050). The temple is open daily from 8.00 am-5.00 pm. For more information, call 0 3738 6166-7, 08 1384 8522.