Wat Phra That Chedi Luang

History & Significance

Wat Phra That Chedi Luang is an ancient temple constructed in 1344 (B.E. 1887) during the 14th century by King Saen Phu, the grandson of King Mengrai the Great, who was the founder of the Lanna Kingdom. The temple was established to enshrine sacred Buddha relics. Later, in 1515 (B.E. 2058), King Muang Kaeo ordered the excavation of the original chedi's base and constructed a new, larger chedi over it. Historically, it served as a highly significant temple of Hiran Nakhon Ngoen Yang during the Lanna era.

Highlights & What to See

The main highlights of the temple include:

• Phra That Chedi Luang: The largest Lanna-style bell-shaped chedi in Chiang Saen, standing 88 meters tall with a base width of 24 meters. Its structure features a series of inverted and upturned lotus bases resting on an octagonal pedestal.
• Wihan Luang: Located in front of the chedi, this large rectangular brick assembly hall measures 17 meters wide and 39 meters long. Today, only the base, the back wall behind the Buddha image, and one front round pillar remain. A protective roof has been built over these ruins. Inside, it houses 'Luang Pho Chiang Saen Sing 1' as the principal Buddha image, along with 'Phra Phuttha Ukhot', a Buddha image in the subduing Mara posture, positioned in front.
• Ancient Artifacts: The site features several smaller chedis and has yielded numerous historical discoveries, including sandstone Buddha images, bronze Buddha bases, votive tablets, Buddha heads, hands, and stucco deity faces.

Visitor Information

The temple is open daily from 07:00 to 17:00. Admission is free. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully when visiting this sacred historical site. For inquiries, you can contact the temple at 0 5377 7044 or the Wiang Subdistrict Administrative Organization at 0 5365 0803.

How to Get There

Wat Phra That Chedi Luang is located in Wiang Sub-district, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai Province, right next to the Chiang Saen National Museum. Parking facilities are available on-site for visitors traveling by car.