Wat Phrathat Chae Haeng, Nan Province, Thailand

5BangkokJock 5:00 PM Aug 6, 2013

One of the North's most important temples
This temple is famous for being one of the major temples in Thailand's North. The whole area is huge. While most people know this temple as being the patron temple for those born in the Rabbit year zodiac, I also discovered 2 smaller chedis on the temple grounds, one for Dog year and another being a replica of the Shwedagon in Yangon which is patron for Horse years. There are parking lots along the side of the temple with vendors selling souvenirs, snacks & drinks.

4Arthurrvr 5:00 PM Mar 25, 2012

A sacred temple on top of a small hill, with a large glistening stupa
This is generally regarded by Thais as the most significant temple in Nan Province. It was built in 1355, in what was then the town centre, with much of it in the Thai Lue style with a 55 metre high stupa on a large square base, built to house 7 Buddha relics. The Wat sits on the top of a small hill a couple of kilometres south-east of the 'new' Nan City and there is a small vehicle park near the foot of the hill from where you can walk up a broad walkway up to the temple. Alternatively, drive further up the hill and take a turning to the left to another compact car park right by the side of the temple. The temple complex has a number of buildings but the main focus is the glistening stupa, plated with brass and copper, on its square base. It is particularly auspicious for people born in the year of the Rabbit which is why one sees a lot of Rabbit statues around the temple. However, I particularly liked the large tree just outside the main walled Pagoda, with 12 Buddha statues around it, very peaceful. Currently they are looking for funds for restoration work and one can buy pieces of scaffolding or ceramic tiles on which one writes one's name and wishes - which for us is a much nicer way of making a donation. A worthwhile visit.