[1] In Thai folk Buddhism, Wat Phra That Phanom is a popular pilgrimage destination for those born in the year of the Monkey.

Joined by 500 Arhats and 5 Phrayas, they built the Phra That Phanom stupa primarily from clay and once completed, the Buddha's breastbones were brought over from India and placed inside.

it was rebuilt with funds raised by public subscription and from the Royal Thai Government, which was completed on 23 March 1979.

[11][12][13] Then current king Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit along with other royal members visited the site when the Buddha's relics were re-installed.

Many valuables were placed inside during its rebuilding and a 110 kilogram gold sphere was added on top the pagoda.

Buddhists from Laos also participated, placing many valuable items from Vientiane within, such as Lan Xang style golden seven-tiered umbrella.