Monastery Abbot Weeps as Ancient Lampang Temple Over 200 Years Old Burns Completely

A fire broke out at an ancient Lampang temple over 200 years old, causing complete destruction and leaving the abbot in tears. At 6:30 AM on February 2, 2026, Radio Center 191 Lampang received reports of a fire at Wat Mon Pu Yak (Wat Santhan) in Phrabat Community. Over 10 fire trucks from local municipalities and military units converged to battle the intense blaze, which took over two hours to control. Initial investigations revealed that the Burmese-style wooden and cement temple, along with numerous ancient artifacts and sacred statues, were completely destroyed. Local witnesses reported hearing 2-3 explosions before smoke and flames rapidly engulfed the building. The deputy governor and local mayor were present to oversee firefighting efforts. The temple, originally established around 1792-1795 by four timber merchant brothers, was a stunning example of Burmese-Portuguese architectural fusion, with intricate wooden carvings, colored glass, and multi-tiered roofs. The abbot, who was away on a religious mission, was devastated upon learning of the complete destruction of the temple.