Ho Phra Isuan and Ho Phra Narai | Nakhon Si Thammarat

Ho Phra Isuan and Ho Phra Narai | Nakhon Si Thammarat
Ho Phra Isuan and Ho Phra Narai are significant historical sites associated with Brahmanism-Hinduism. Located on Ratchadamnoen Road in Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Si Thammarat District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, they stand opposite each other on either side of the road. These sites serve as evidence of a Brahmanical civilization that dates back to the era of the Tambralinga Kingdom.
1. Ho Phra Isuan (Shrine of Lord Shiva)
• Belief System: A Brahmanical shrine belonging to the Shaivite tradition, which reveres Phra Isuan (Lord Shiva) as the supreme deity.
Key Features:
• It houses a *linga* (phallic symbol of Shiva) and its base, the *yoni*, as well as significant bronze images of deities, including Shiva Nataraja (the Lord of the Dance), Parvati (Phra Uma), and Ganesha. (Note: The original bronze images are currently preserved at the Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum; the figures displayed at the shrine are replicas.)
• Nearby Landmarks: The *Sao Ching Cha* (Giant Swing) of Nakhon Si Thammarat is located in the immediate vicinity.
• Opening Hours: Open daily from 07:00 to 16:20.
2. Ho Phra Narai (Shrine of Lord Vishnu)
• Belief System: A Brahmanical shrine belonging to the Vaishnavite tradition, which reveres Phra Narai (Lord Vishnu) as the supreme deity.
1186 Ratchadamnoen Road, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80000 Key Features:
• It houses an image of Phra Narai (Lord Vishnu), which is notable for the deity’s distinctive octagonal cylindrical headdress. And in the right hand, it holds a conch shell; this is considered one of the oldest divine images in the Southeast Asian region.
• History of creation: It is believed to have been created during the Ayutthaya period and has undergone continuous restoration.