Temples in Mae Hong Son

MAE HONG SON is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges, Mae Hong Son has long been isolated from the outside world. Virtually covered with mist throughout the year, the name refers to the fact that is terrain is highly suitable for the training of elephants.

Former governors of Chiang Mai used to organise the rounding up of wild elephants which were then trained before being sent to the capital for work. Today, Mae Hong Son is one of the dream destinations for visitors. Daily flights into its small airport bring growing numbers of tourists, attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous hilltribe communities and soft adventure opportunities.

THAI YAI CULTURE

The Thai Yai can be seen along the northern border with Myanmar. They may at one time have been the most numerous of the ethnic Thai tribes that stretch across Southeast Asia. A large group settled in Mae Hong Son.

The Thai Yai culture has had a strong influence on the province, as can be seen in its architecture. Although a part of the Lanna region, the indigenous Thai Yai people living in Mae Hong Son are faced with very cold weather during winter and extremely hot weather in the summer, with mist or fog practically throughout the whole year. Not surprisingly they have had to adapt to the environment.

As a result, their architectural style has developed into something different from other Lanna communities. Their living quarters are usually built with tall floors and low roofs, the sizes differing according to ones social status and position. Homes of the ordinary folks are usually with one single level of roof, while those of the local aristocrats have two or more levels forming a castle-like shape. The space thus provided is believed to help air circulation. An interesting feature of the Thai Yai style is the perforated designs along the eaves which are an architectural identity of the area.

1. Wat Phra Non

Wat Phra Non
This temple at the foot of Doi Kong Mu houses a 12-metre long reclining Buddha image in the Thai Yai style. The image was cast in 1875 by Phranang Miah, the wife of Phraya Singhanatracha. Another main feature of the temple is the two large sculpted lions lying side by side, presumably providing the passage for those going up to pay homage to the Holy Relic on the hill

2. Wat Kam Ko



Wat Kam Ko
Opposite Wat Phra Non, Wat Kam Ko is a Burmese-style temple built in 1890. A special architectural feature is the cover over the passageway from the entrance arch to the chapel. It also stores text in Thai Yai script chronicling the Thai Yai history.

3. Wat Hua Wiang

Wat Hua Wiang

Another name is Wat Klang Mueang. This temple is on Sihanatbamrung Road next to the morning market. Built in 1863, the temple houses the Phra Chao Pharalakhaeng, a Buddha statue dressed in beautiful attire. It is a replica of a major statue in Mandalay, Myanmar.

Temples in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai, the northernmost province of Thailand is about 785 kilometers north of Bangkok. Situated on the Kok River basin, Chiang Rai covers an area of approximately 11,678 square meters with an average elevation of 580 meters above sea level. The province, which is located within the renowned Golden Triangle area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge, is also known as the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China.

Chiang Rai, which was founded in 1262 by King Meng Rai,
was the first capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom (Kingdom of a million rice fields), which was later conquered by Burma. It was not until 1786 that Chiang Rai became a Thai territory and was proclaimed a province during the reign of King Rama VI in 1910.

Today, Chiang Rai is a travelers paradise endowed with abundant natural tourist attractions and antiquities; the province itself is evidence of past civilization. Attractions range from magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages as the province is also home to several hill tribes who maintain fascinating lifestyles. For those interested in the natural side of Chiang Rai, jungle trekking is recommended along various trails.

Chiang Rai which tends to be a little more ’laid back’ now competes with Chiang Mai as a tourist attraction and is fast becoming a popular escape for tourists wanting to get away from the troubles they left behind.

Welcome to Temples in Chiangrai with the following information :

1. Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong

It is located on Doi Chom Thong on the bank of the Kok River within town area, contains what is believed to be the oldest Holy Relic even before King Mengrai built Chiang Rai. The Chedi containing the Holy Relic was probably renovated at the same time the town was being built. A major religious site in Chiang Rai was from here that King Mengrai spotted the strategic location on which to establish the town. Tel: 0 5371 6055


2. Wat Phra Sing

Wat Phra Sing is located near the townhall used to house a major Buddha statue, the Phra Buddha Sihing which is now enshrined in Chiang Mai. A special feature is the Lanna-style Ubosot and the wooden door panels carved by Chiang Rai contemporary craftsmen. Tel: 0 5374 5038



3. Wat Rong Khun

Wat Rong Khun is also known as the White Temple. Whereas most temples visited by tourists have a history going back many centuries, this magnificent place of worship was built only recently. It is the realization of a dream for Thailands noted artist, Mr Chalermchai Kositpipat, who designed and is supervising the construction of this beautiful white temple and its many statues of figures based on religious beliefs. The construction started in 1998 and is expected to be completed in 2008. In addition, there is a gallery nearby exhibiting his paintings. To get there from the city of Chiang Rai, drive north along Asia Highway.


4. Wat Phra Kaeo

Wat Phra Kaeo, which is located on Trairat Road on the northwest side of town, is the best known of the northern temples. It once housed the Emerald Buddha, Thailands most important Buddha statue which was discovered in 1444. The statue had been moved by various state rulers to be placed in their capitals including Lampang, Chiang Rai and Vientiane before finally being enshrined in Bangkok's royal Wat Phra Kaeo. There is now a green jade replica of the image on display. The temple also houses a 700-year bronze statue of Phra Chao Lan Thong, which is housed in the Chiang Saen style ubosot.

Temples in Sukhothai

Sukhothai (literally means “Dawn of Happiness” ) was the first truly independent Thai Kingdom, which enjoyed a golden age under King Ramkhamhaeng, credited with creating the Thai alphabet. The superb temples and monuments of this great city have been lovingly restored in Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for all travellers.

Sukhothai is located on the lower edge of the northern region, 440 kilometres north of Bangkok or some 350 kilometres south of Chiang Mai. The province covers some 6,596 square kilometres and is divided into 9 Amphurs (districts): Muang Sukhothai, Sawankhalok, Sri Samrong, Si Satchanalai, Kong Krailat, Kirimas, Thung Saliam, Ban Dan Lan Hoi and Sri Nakhon,

Provincial Seal
Features the picture of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great Sitting on the Managkhasila pedestal.

Provincial Slogan
Sukhothai, a town of excellent world heritages, thai letters invention, Loy Krathong, Budhism, intricate tin Jok cloth, ancient golden Sanglhalok wares, holy Mae Ya and Phor Khun and the down of happiness.

Now Let's see temples in Sukhothai with the following :

1. Wat Mahathat
A large temple located in the middle of town, reflects the prosperity of the Sukhothai architecture. Within the monastery are housed Phra Rattana Chedi, the chief pagoda of the temple.


2. Wat Sri Sawai
Located 300 meters southeast of Wat Mahathat.Within the temple are found the Narai Banthomsincarved stone lintel, pieces of deity statue, bronze lingum and Lopburi-style Buddha images.


3. Wat Phra Phai Luang
Situated outside the town, are surrounded by 3-line ditches, houses laterite prang (pagoda), ruined images of Buddha, damaged pogoda and base of Vihar.


4. Wat Sa Sri
Situated on the isle in Traphang Trakuan, a large pond located in the middle of town, The monastery houses the Lankan-style pagodas, an image of Buddha in the attiude ofsubduing mara and ordination hall located in the middle of a small isle.



5. Wat Sri Chum
Located northwest outside the city ramparts, about 1,500 meters away from Wat Mahathat, houses Phra Achana, a huge Buddha image; the second Stone Inscription telling about the establishment of the Sukhothai dynasty including pictures depicting the previous lives of Lord Buddha.

Temples in Lamphun

1. Haripoonshai Temple
Haripoonshai was the first known organized civilization in the north of Thailand and played a central role in the Mon rule of the region from the 8th to the 13th centuries. When King Mengrai led his Thais into the Chiangmai area in the second haft of the 13th century, the Haripoonshai Kingdom of the Mons had already been a flourishing center of culture, art and religion for 600 years. As the Thai conquered the entire north, Haripoonshai became a priority area for King Mengrai and his successors and it was eventually incorporated into the Lanna Kingdom with its capital in Chiangmai.

The Thai adopted many of the Mon Buddhist art forms, particularly in architecture and statuary. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the structures and art of Haripoonshai showed marked signs of the merging of two cultures. Over the following centuries, the art, architecture and religion of the area became one. Today, the Mon Haripoonshai impact on northern Thai culture, particularly in its Buddhist aspects, is crucial to understanding and appreciating the architecture of northern Thailand.

The pure Haripoonshai features of these mediums can still be seen in some of the ancient temples built by Princess Jarmmathaewee 1,200 to 1,300 years ago. These are located in the city of Lamphun (Note: The word is actually pronounced as "Lumpoon"). The six temples are: Wat Jarmmathaewee, Wat Phrathart Haripoonshai, Wat Mahawan, Wat Phrayun, Wat Phrathuri, and Wat Phakhong. The first three of these are the most well-known, but all six date from the 8th and 9th centuries. Today, they are a marvel to view with their ancient jedees and statuary in sandstone and terra-cotta.

The three most outstanding examples of Mon architecture and art are Wat Jarmmathaewee, Wat Phrathart Haripoonshai, And Wat Mahawan. The first is located approximately 1 kilometer west of the city; the second is located between Inthayongyod Road, Lamphun's main road, and the Guang River on the east; and, the third is two blocks west of the Haripoonshai National Museum, itself across the street from Wat Phrathart Haripoonshai.

HOW TO GET THERE
Lamphun is 26 kilometers south of Chiangmai. A visit to this city and ancient seat of the Mon Haripoonshai Kingdom is best made by car, giving you all the flexibility you might want to explore and discover other features of the city and the surrounding area. It can, however, be reached by Local air-conditioned Bus (either white or blue color) or Light Blue Truck by waiting at a bus stop any where along the Chiangmai-Lamphun Road. This road begins on the east side of the Ping River at the Nawarat Bridge in Chiangmai and continues on all the way to Lamphun. When you pass the very last of tall trees, you have left Chiangmai. Bus and Blue Truck fares are 12 Baht per person, one-way, and both drop you in Lamphun on Inthayongyod Road just in front of the Haripoonshai National Museum and across the street from Wat Phrathart Haripoonshai. Whether you travel by private car, bus or blue truck; it is very easy to visit all three temples in a morning or afternoon. Wat Jarmmathaewee can be reached by Tri-shaw at a fare of 20 Baht per person, one-way.

Temples in Lampang

1. Wat Sri Choom
Wat Sri Choom is the largest traditional Burmese style Buddhist temple in Thailand and is located at 198 Dhippawan Road, Lampang, directly opposite the Alfalah Mosque "" we are fortunate Thailand is a multi-cultural society. The old Wat Sri Choom consisted of a temple surrounded by Bodhi (banyan) trees, a well and a “sala” (a rest house) with no resident monk in charge. Due to this place being surrounded by bodhi trees, the name Wat Sri Choom, which means bodhi tree in Northern Thai, came into being although the Burmese continued to call it Nyaung Waign Kyaung. In the year 1893 (BE 2436, Burmese year 1254), permission was granted by the Governor of Lampang to construct a permanent temple at this site and the monastery itself was donated by ‘Big Boss’ U Maung Gyi of mixed Burmese Chiangmai Tai Yai background and his Shan wife Me Liang Pounge in 1901. The buildings that make up the temple and monastery were supported by a number of teak merchants.

Entering through the main gate you approach a large open courtyard and the first thing you encounter is a collection of small shops selling Buddhist regalia. You will also see the main wiharn with its multitiered roofs and spiers that was originally constructed in 1900, to your right, beyond the shops. ‘Kyaung Daga’ U Yo started the construction of the main wiharn with timber which was later changed to brick and plaster by his son-in-law U Maung Gyi. Skilled Burmese carpenters from the city of Mandalay in northern Burma were brought here especially and it was completed, in Burmese style, in 1901. The wiharn was unfortunately destroyed by fire on the night of 16th January 1992 but has now been restored, again using craftsmen brought from Burma, who tried to recreate the original from photographs. The new construction contains much information and many photographs and has wind chimes made of what looks like upturned porcelain bells that I have never encountered at a temple anywhere else. Even further to the right is a small stretch of running water that bubbles in honor of Patacara, an eminent contemporary female disciple of the Lord Buddha and a cool, quiet place to sit and meditate. Return to the central courtyard and opposite you will see the ‘Thein’ or Sema or Ubosote (Ordination Hall) where ordination services, rites and ceremonies are held. This was also constructed and completed in 1901. Its construction was supported by U San Ohn, a Mon from Moulmein, his Lampang Tai Yuan wife U Shwe O and other teak merchants. This hall was consecrated at the time by a chapter of ten senior monks invited from Burma. Next to the ordination hall is the golden stupa, that enshrines Buddha’s relics brought from Burma in 1906. This was constructed in Burmese and Mon (Peguen) style and was erected by Mr. Amarin Siriprayong (U San Lin) in 1948.

The refectory house, or eating hall, at the far end of the central courtyard was built in 1950 and is an attractive wooden construction that has now been renovated to become Wat Sri Choom English Tutorial Class on the ground floor and the Chief Abbot Ministry Office on the upper floor.

In 2006, this temple was home to one Burmese and 18 Thai monks whereas in 2000 there were 29 Burmese and nine Thai and perhaps this reflects a change in its adoption over recent years. They still recite the Pali texts in central Thai and Burmese tones, however, and maintain Burmese monks to do the daily physical tasks and to retain the colors and sounds of a traditional Burmese temple.

Wat Sri Choom is keeping up with modern times and as well as a website at www.watsriChoom.com, the monastery broadcasts a dharma program on Lampang City radio (FM 92.75 mhz).


2. Wat Sri Rong Muang
Wat Sri Rong Muang has seen better days but in my opinion has a distinctly ‘lived in’ feel to it that gives the place a definite charm and welcoming spirit that I found lacking at Wat Sri Choom.

Wat Sri Rong Muang is located towards the west of Lampang at No 80 Toa Kraw Noi Road with its rear backing onto the Wang River. It was originally named Wat Tha Kha Noi Pharma, after the village where the Burmese craftsmen who constructed the temple lived. The temple was founded in 1900 and the vihara constructed between 1905-1912. The temple was renamed in honor of the two people who donated the land; Mr. Inta and Mrs. Karn-On.

Entering the compound through the main gate the once beautiful, and still remarkable, wiharn is directly in front of you. Turning to your right you pass a small walled enclosure surrounding an old well and directly in front of you is an old tree that has become a shrine in its own right and is surrounded by offerings. Beyond this is an attractive, gilt decorated, stone stupa that was built in 1902 under the sponsorship of ‘Grand Mother’ Jong Tang Pa-O.

The wiharn itself is in typical Burmese style with groups of multitiered roofs decorated with carved, zinc coated, iron sheets on the gables. The roof also features nine spires in honor of the nine families who donated the majority of the money required for its construction. Inside the wiharn the many wooden pillars are beautifully decorated using rak, a tree sap, to form delicate floral and vine patterns, then embellished with brightly colored glass. The column in front of the central Buddha is particularly striking with its images of guardian angels, demons, monkeys and other animals. The ceiling of the wiharn is similarly decorated and although it is dark inside the colors flash off the glass with every hint of light that penetrates the old hall. There are three Buddha images in the posture of subduing Mara, the evil one, in the Burmese style of Mandalay; they have round faces, carved eyebrows and short noses. The second image from the left is housed in a multicolored glass mondop and is in a style more associated with Lanna.

At the extreme left of the compound are the monks’ quarters and a small farm with vegetable patch and chicken enclosure alongside what appears to be the original stone crafted well. During my visit young monks were working here under the supervision of an old nun and they were most welcoming.

Walking to the rear of the wiharn, to its left, there are a number of spirit houses. One bears the message, hand painted in English; “May you be well and happy; may you be free from mental and physical suffering”. A fine sentiment to take with you when you leave.
The wiharn is now 100 years old and needs attention. The Fine Arts Department of Thailand have recognized this building as a national treasure and estimated its renovation costs to be 15 million Baht. Let’s hope the work is undertaken but also that the vihara will retain its current charm and feeling of well-being for future generations to experience.


3. Wat Phra Thart Lampang Luang
This ancient monastery is one of the most important historical places in Lampang. lt is the site where Chao Phraya Suwalue Chai Songkhram (Governor Thip Chang) freed Lampang from Burma. He later became the ancestor of seven genera-tions: Na Lampang, Na Lampoon, Na Chaing Mai, and Na Nan. This temple houses priceless antiques and ancient arts. They include Buddha’s relics and double-deck Naga stairs. lt also enshrines Phra Kaew Don Tao, the Buddah images that is held with historical reverence.

Temples in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai's temples are perhaps the most interesting of its many attractions. Unlike Bangkok, where few temples are more than 200 years old, some temples in Chiang Mai are as old as the city, which celebrated it's 700^th anniversary in 1996.

1. Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep
The one temple every first-time visitor absolutely, positively must see is the mountain-top Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep. The temple is a "must see" not only for its importance as a pilgrimage temple, but also for the outstanding views it affords of the city and its surrounding plain, when the weather cooperates. A trip to the temple is usually combined with a stop at the royal Phu Phing Palace and the Doi Pui Maeo village.

The temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is certainly one of the most important temples in Chiang Mai, as well as one of the most revered among all Thais. The temple is a major pilgrimage destinations during the important Buddhist holidays of Makha Buja and Visak. Its importance, as well as its location, owes much to the legend of its founding.

According to this legend, a Buddha relic, which some say glowed, magically replicated just before it was about to be enshrined in the big chedi at Wat Suan Dok. The "cloned" relic was placed on the back of a sacred white elephant, which was allowed to roam where-ever it wanted.

More details from around 1989.

The elephant eventually climbed to the top of Suthep Mountain, trumpeted three times, turned around three times, knelt down and died. This was taken as a sign that this was the spot where the relic wanted to be, so King Ku Na built the original of the chedi on Doi Suthep at the end of 14^th century.

The chedi and courtyard after its first big renovation in 1992.

The temple grew and changed in the 600 years since its founding. In particular, it was extensively renovated in the economic "boom" years of the early 1990's. From our admittedly western viewpoint, a lot of the charm has been lost as everything was covered in granite and gold. However, the temple remains an important sight that first-time visitors to Chiang Mai shouldn't miss.

The chedi sits in a rather small courtyard at the very peak of the mountain. The courtyard building sits on a larger plaza containing several buildings as well as a lookout point from which you can see, weather permitting, all of Chiang Mai and the surrounding plain.

The chedi in 1999.

Among the buildings on the plaza is a small museum displaying old pieces of temple wares as well as some of the more ancient or unique monetary donations to the temple. Note that before entering the courtyard containing the chedi, you must remove your shoes. You must also be dressed appropriately, although the temple can provide some clothing on loan to cover up your naughty knees and slinky shoulders.

Now for the bad news: To reach the temple itself requires a climb up a naga staircase of 309 steps. For the faint of heart, there's also a funicular cable-car to the top which has just been re-built after several fatal crashes. The fare for the new improved funicular is 20 Baht.

At the base of stairs, where cars and motorcycles park, there is a large market of food stalls, jade factories and endless relentless souvenir sellers.






2. Wat Chedi Luang

King Saen Muang Ma began building the Phra Chedi Luang to enshrine the relics of his father at the end of the 14th century, but King Tilokarat completed it. The chedi used to be 90 meters high before it was partly destroyed in an earthquake in 1545; it was to remain the tallest structure in Chiang Mai for over 500 years. The present restored chedi is about 60 meters high.

One of the best times to see this chedi is during the wian tian ceremony in the evening on one of the main Buddhist festival days.

The large viharn was built in 1928. Round columns with bell shaped bases and lotus finials support the high red ceiling inside. The standing Buddha image inside is known as the Phra Chao Attarot. Made of a combination of brass alloy and mortar, the image dates back to King Saen Muang Ma (r.1385-1401). Buddhist posters are placed along the walls between the windows, and cabinets with Buddha images and Bencharong ceramics line the walls.

The cross shaped hall to the south of the main viharn contains the city pillar. Statues in small shelters surrounding this building are homes of guardian spirits. Legends say that a hermit (whose image is in a shelter on the west side of the building) went to the God Indra to ask for protection for the city from enemies. On condition that appropriate offerings were made, Indra permitted two kumaphan (mythical human-beast creature) to carry the Inthakhin pillar from the Tavatimsa heaven to the city.

Chao Kawila moved the city pillar to its present site from Wat Sadoe Muang in 1800. He built statues of the kumaphan under shelters to the north and south of the main entrance to the temple. He also planted the three large yang (dipterocarpus alatus) trees. According to legend, the tree nearest the city pillar will protect the city as long as it is not cut down.

Other buildings in the compound include the Lanna campus of the Mahamakut Buddhist University (This is the northern campus for monks of the Thammayut sect, a reformist sect founded by King Mongkut (Rama IV r.1851-1881, who was dissatisfied with the established Mahanikai sect in the late 1830's). To the west of the chedi is a viharn with a reclining Buddha and the Sangkhachai Buddha. From this area an exit leads out onto Chaban Road.

3. Wat Umong

Wat Umong (or Oomong) is one of my favorite temples in Chiang Mai. It can be an especially magical place just after the rainy season has ended, around early October or November.

Main tunnel leading to the alter.

Wat Umong is unique in many respects. For one, it's built in the foothills of Suthep mountain and is still heavily forested. But the most unique feature of the temple are the tunnels which give the wat its name (umong is the Thai word for "tunnel").

The temple and its tunnels were built in the late 14^th century. On a level open space, a large artificial mound was built and then criss-crossed with tunnels. The legend is that the temple was built like this for a highly regarded monk who was nonetheless a little crazy. The somewhat maze-like tunnels kept the mad monk from wandering off.

The monastery was later abandoned and wasn't used again until the 1940's. The long disuse is probably what accounts for the overgrown atmosphere of the temple. That's why the temple is so great to visit right after the rains have gone. The brick walls of the mound are covered with moss and small plants. Other stone works are covered in moss and vines.

Chedi atop the artificial mound.

Atop one end of the mound is the temple's chedi, reachable by a short stairway to the left of the tunnel entrances. The main "bell" section of the pagoda is mostly covered in thick vines, giving a strong sense of decay even though the structure of the pagoda appears sound. When I was here in early October 2002, it appeared that the chedi had been opened and the relic inside removed. A curious little ad-hoc alter had been set up on the base of the pagoda right in front of the rough opening in the brick work. The alter consisted of many tiny Buddha images as well as other offerings, apparently left by many people. By August 2007, the pagoda had been restored and most of the vines removed.

"Buddha parts" collected from other monasteries.

A trail leads from the chedi across the roof of the mound and down the other side. Just beyond the far edge of the mound is a rather ghastly, very emaciated seated Buddha image. This style of Buddha image was in style for a short time hundreds of years ago, but today there are very few examples of it still in existence.

The path down winds through the monk's cells and other out-buildings, then back around to the front of the mound. Just as the path turns back towards the main tunnel entrance is a curious collection of Buddha heads and other relics from various temples. This odd collection started when one of the temple's supporters rescued some broken images from an abandoned temple in a nearby province and bought them here. Now, apparently, when people run across such relics or have a broken Buddha they want to replace, they bring them here.

If you continue on the path on past the mound and the pagoda, you'll eventually come to a small lake with many fish, birds and other wildlife.

Temples in Samut Prakan

Next area are temples in Samut Prakan, if you have a chance to visit this province you should visit the temples below;

Wat Bang Phli Yai Klang

Wat Bang Phli Yai Klang is in Bang Phli district in Samut Prakan. It houses the longest Reclining Buddha in Thailand at 53 metres long. In comparison, the famous Recling Buddha at Wat Pho in Bangkok is only 46 metres long. In addition, this Buddha image is unusual in that you can actually go inside. On the third floor there are paintings on the walls depicting moments from the Buddha's life as well as scenes depicting a Buddhist hell. A rather special shrine inside is for the Buddha's heart.

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