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Phra Mahathat Chedi, 3rd Structure

Phra Maha Ratun Naphametnidol Naphol Phum Siri

Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province

On April 9, 1987, the Cabinet approved in principle to allow the Royal Thai Air Force to use the area in Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province, to construct the chedi.

The Royal Thai Air Force, together with the Thai people, proceeded to construct Phra Maha Ratun Khametnidol, dedicated to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, on the occasion of his 60th birthday in 1992, and constructed Phra Maha Ratun Khol Phum Siri, dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, on the occasion of her birthday, to honor and express gratitude for the immeasurable kindness of both monarchs, who have shown concern for the Thai people everywhere, traveling to perform royal duties throughout the land, including remote and difficult areas. Additionally, both monarchs have performed royal duties as devout Buddhists, supporting Buddhism throughout their reigns. Therefore, the Royal Thai Air Force constructed Phra Maha Ratun Khametnidol Naphol Phum Siri, an important sacred site according to Buddhist principles, with exquisite architecture located at Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest mountain in Thailand, to reflect the majesty and kindness of both monarchs. Phra Maha Ratun Khametnidol Naphol Phum Siri stands majestically, beautifully side by side, and is a great blessing for those who have the opportunity to pay their respects.

 

The construction of the great stupa is a significant matter, serving as a source of morale not only for the Royal Thai Air Force.

But it will be a matter for the entire nation.

Everyone involved in the construction will gain merit.

 


Phra Mahathat Nopphametani Dol

               is the name given by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, the Great King. 
               It means "the stupa containing the relics that connect heaven and earth."



Phra Mahathat Nakhon Phlum Siri

"Phra Mahathat Nakhon Phlum Siri" is the name given by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, meaning
"the power of heaven, the glory of earth."


Phra Mahathat Stupa, the 3rd.

 


Design and Architecture

The Air Force, in collaboration with the Fine Arts Department, has adopted the principles of His Holiness the Supreme Patriarch, the Supreme Patriarch of the Sangha, as the concept for the design (Conceptual Design).

By incorporating the principles used in the construction ofPhra Maharat Nakhon Metani Dol, which signifies the enshrinement of the Supreme Enlightenment, or refers to "the Buddha."Combined with the principles used in the construction ofPhra Maharat Nakhon Phlum Siri, which signifies the principles leading to liberation, or refers to "the Dharma."to be used inthe construction of the new Maharat Stupa, which will signify the practice of Dharma, or refers to "the Sangha."Once the construction of the new Maharat Stupa is completed.The combined meaning of all three will refer to "the Triple Gem."The Buddha, the Dharma, the Sangha, or the three precious jewels that hold great value in Buddhism.


Design and Architecture

The Maharat Chedi, the third structure, has a decagonal shape representing the principle of "Ten Perfections". It stands 49 meters tall, symbolizing the principle of "Forty-Nine Destructive Forces". Inside the upper level, a principal Buddha statue will be enshrined for the public to pay respects. The ceiling and walls will be decorated with paintings and sculptures depicting the history of Buddhism and Buddhist principles. The lower hall will be developed into a museum to showcase religious exhibitions or exhibitions honoring the monarchy.


      

His Holiness Ariyavongsagatanana, the Supreme Patriarch, bestowed his grace upon the Royal Thai Air Force, consecrating the foundation stone for auspiciousness before it is used in the groundbreaking ceremony. At the same time, he provided sacred relics to be enshrined within.
The Maharat Chedi constructed by the Royal Thai Air Force was inaugurated on December 28, 2024, at Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Maha Simaram Rajaworavihara.