Wat Phra That Pha Ngao is a centuries-old Buddhist temple.
It represents the classic style of Lanna architecture.
Also, it offers a deep insight into the region's cultural heritage.
Wat Phra That Pha Ngao is a highly revered temple located atop a hill in Chiang Saen, Thailand. It's well-maintained and makes a perfect center for worship for the Buddhist devotees in the region. There's a legend that if someone becomes sick and comes to pray at the Buddha relics here, then he will heal in no time.
The temple complex is massive, home to a number of structures. Also, it provides the visitors with a spectacular view of Laos and the Mekong River.
How to Reach
Wat Phra That Pha Ngao sits at a distance of about 60 km from Chiang Rai. The most convenient option is to take a cab from Chiang Rai, as this will take around 1.5 - 2 hours to reach your destination.
History of the Temple
The temple was originally named Wat Sop Kham, which was located on the banks of the Mekong River. Once, the river flooded and caused severe damage to the temple complex. The monks then decided to move it to a new place and began looking for the same.
They soon found a cave called Pha Ngao on a hill. Here, they found a beautiful image of Lord Buddha behind a wall of bricks. As archaeologists suggest, it's between 700-1,300 years old.
The Temple Complex
Wat Phra That Pha Ngao is an architectural wonder, and by all means. The main highlight here is inarguably the bell-shaped chedi on the top.
There's another chedi (relatively new) called Phra Borommathat Phuttha Nimit at the end of the temple complex. Dating back to the 80s, it has a panorama of Laos, Chiang Saen, and the Mekong River.
The temple has a beautiful Naga staircase that leads up to the Wat Phra That Chom Chom. There's a trail parallel to the staircase leading through the surrounding forest. There's an ubosot beside the Wat Phra That Chom Chom which is home to a Buddha statue.
The Tripitaka Hall is a must-visit here. Set in a pond, it has filing cabinets from many countries such as Laos, India, Cambodia, Thailand, etc. The walls here are beautifully carved with paintings of several renowned temples of Northern Thailand.
There are two museums located inside the temple complex, both of which house a rich collection. The first one is the Tai Lue Textile Museum which showcases the gorgeous Tai Lue textile. The other one is packed with photos, maps, utensils, old artifacts, paintings, and more.
