Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan

History & Significance

Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan, originally known as "Wat Luang" or "Wat Luang Klang Wiang," was founded in 1406 (1949 BE) by Phaya Phu Kheng, the 11th ruler of the Phuka Dynasty of Nan. As a royal temple located in the center of the city, it served as the primary venue for major Buddhist ceremonies and the sacred Oath of Allegiance rituals performed by the rulers of Nan. According to Stone Inscription No. 74 discovered within the temple, Phaya Phonlathep Rue Chai, a ruler of Nan, restored the main vihara (Wihan Luang) in 1548 (2091 BE). The temple has remained a highly revered spiritual center for the people of Nan for centuries.

Highlights & What to See

The temple features several remarkable architectural and artistic treasures:

• Phra That Chedi Chang Kham: This Sukhothai-influenced, Lankan-style bell-shaped chedi houses sacred Buddha relics. Built with brick and plaster, it stands on a square base with three tiers. The defining feature is the 24 stucco half-elephants that appear to support the chedi's base (6 on each side, with front legs and heads protruding). The entire chedi is beautifully covered in brass sheets.
• Wihan Luang (The Main Vihara): A grand northern-style assembly hall with a spacious interior. The entrance is guarded by a pair of standing stone lions (singha). Inside, massive round concrete pillars, which require two people to embrace, are decorated with exquisite stucco Kanok patterns rising 1.50 meters above the floor, similar to those at Wat Phumin.
• Phra Phutthananthaburi Sri Sakyamuni: Housed in the scripture library, this rare walking Buddha image is made of 65% gold and stands 145 centimeters tall. It was commissioned in 1426 (1969 BE) by Chao Ngua Lar Phasum, the 14th ruler of Nan. In 1899 (2442 BE), a topknot (Phra Moli) weighing 69 Baht of gold was added.
• Ho Trai (The Scripture Library): Built in 1910 (2453 BE) under Chao Suriyaphong Pharitadet, this high-ceilinged brick structure was designed to store Lanna Dhamma palm-leaf scriptures. It features beautifully carved doors depicting two angels and Lanna-style gables. It has now been renovated to house the golden Buddha image.

Visitor Information

Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan is open daily to visitors. The general visiting hours are from 06:00 to 18:00 (with some areas accessible until 21:00). Admission is free of charge. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, in accordance with temple etiquette.

How to Get There

The temple is located on Suriyapong Road in Mueang Nan District, Nan Province. It is situated directly opposite the Nan National Museum and the Nan Municipality Tourist Information Center, making it easily accessible on foot or by local transport from anywhere in Nan's historical city center.