Culture
Chiang Mai Celebrates Appointment of Young Monk to Royal Rank
A 30-year-old monk, Phra Wachirasitthiyan, has been officially appointed to the rank of Phra Rachakhana by the King of Thailand.
On September 22, 2026, a formal ceremony was held at Wat Yang Kuang in Chiang Mai to celebrate the appointment of Phra Wachirasitthiyan (formerly Phra Khru Palad Thirawat Yan-sitthiwathi) to the rank of Phra Rachakhana (a common-class royal monk). The appointment was granted by His Majesty the King of Thailand.
The ceremony was presided over by Phra Thammasenabodi, the regional ecclesiastical governor, and Chiang Mai Governor Rattaphol Naradisorn. Earlier that morning, local officials and followers gathered at Chiang Mai International Airport to receive the royal warrant and fan of rank, which were then processed to Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan before the final ceremony at Wat Yang Kuang.
For residents and visitors, this event highlights the significance of the monastic hierarchy in Northern Thailand. Phra Wachirasitthiyan is notable for receiving this prestigious ecclesiastical title at the age of 30, with nine years in the monkhood. While the ceremony has concluded, the appointment marks a significant milestone in the local religious community. Visitors to Chiang Mai may observe the continued reverence for the monk at his temple, though no changes to temple access or tourist regulations have been announced following this appointment.