Wat Phra That Pha Ngao Chiang Rai
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Wat Phra That Pha Ngao is located in Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai Province. It is an ancient and important temple with a long history and is interesting in many ways, both in terms of architecture, religious objects, and beautiful scenery.
History and Background
Wat Phra That Pha Ngao was originally called "Wat Sop Kham" and is located on the banks of the Mekong River. However, due to the currents that swept it away and almost completely collapsed, a new temple was built on Doi Chan in 1976. During the land adjustment, an ancient Buddha image, approximately 700-1,300 years old, was excavated, which had a very beautiful Buddha image. Therefore, this Buddha image was named "Luang Pho Pha Ngao" and the temple's name was changed to "Wat Phra That Pha Ngao" since then.
The name "Pha Ngao" comes from the shape of the Buddha image that is located on top of a large rock. When sunlight shines on it, it creates a large shadow. Therefore, the villagers call it "Phra That Pha Ngao".
Things of interest in the temple
* Luang Pho Pha Ngao: A sacred Buddha image discovered in Pha Ngao Cave. It is a Chiang Saen Buddha image influenced by Sukhothai art. It has a very beautiful Buddha image. It is believed that those who come to pay homage will recover from illness and receive good fortune.
* Phra That Pha Ngao: Located on top of a large rock, which is the origin of the temple's name. It looks like a pagoda and is a point where you can see the view.
* Ubosot: It is a wooden building carved from golden teak wood. The architecture is a combination of Lan Xang and Lanna. Inside is enshrined Phra Chiang Saen Singh 1, which is a beautiful principal Buddha image. There are also murals telling the story of the life of the Buddha.
* Phra Borommathat Phutthanimit Chedi: Located on top of the hill, it is a large pagoda built to cover the original Phra That Chedi Yot (only the remains of the base remain). Inside are murals telling the story of the life of Queen Chamadevi. Outside, you can walk around to see the surrounding scenery.
* Pha Ngao Skywalk 3 Reigns: This is the temple's main highlight. It is located near Phra Borommathat Phutthanimit Chedi. It is an octagonal glass bridge that is 25 meters high. You can clearly see the Mekong River and the Golden Triangle, as well as the Thai, Myanmar, and Lao PDR sides. (There is a fee to go up the skywalk, approximately 30-40 baht)
* Phra Borommaphracha Maharat Phutthirangsan Hall: Inside, there is a monument of King Mengrai the Great and portraits of the royal family and important people who visited the temple.
Travel and recommendations
* Location: Wat Phra That Pha Ngao is located on Highway 1290, along the Chiang Saen - Chiang Khong River, only 1.5 kilometers from Mueang Chiang Saen District.
* Travel: You can travel by private car or use a songthaew from Mueang Chiang Saen District.
* Opening and closing hours: The temple is open every day from 06.00 - 18.00 hrs. The skywalk is open from 07.30 - 18.00 hrs.
* Dress code: You should dress appropriately and cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for the place.
* Best time to visit: You should go in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the hot weather. November to February is the best time to visit.
Overall review
Wat Phra That Pha Ngao is a great place for those who want to make merit. Pay homage to the sacred objects and admire the beautiful architecture. It is also a beautiful viewpoint where you can clearly see the Mekong River and the scenery of the three countries.