Nan Tourist Attraction :
Wat Phra That Chae Haeng Nan
Located in the northern part of Thailand, Nan province contains various tourist destinations that provide a glimpse about the historical and religious significance of this place. One such place that is worth a visit is the Wat Phra That Chae Haeng Nan. |
Situated 2 kilometers from Nan town, this Buddhist monastery is one of the most revered and respected temples in Thailand. Constructed during the Sukhothai period under the reign of Chao Phraya Kanmueang, this 600-year old ancient temple complex is situated on a mound on the eastern side of the Nan River.
The entire pattern of the temple is believed to have been adopted from the design of Phra That Haripoonchai. The most significant aspect of this temple is the 55 meter-high golden bell shaped Lanna-style chedi that houses a holy relic from Sukhothai. The chedi is located on a square-shaped base with the sides being 22.5 meter long. Phra That Chae Haeng Nan provides glimpses of unique art style of Nan region. The long naga-shaped stairway leading to the temple and also the stucco reliefs depicting intertwined nagas present on the entrance gate to the wiharn are some examples of this art form. Present behind the chedi is a long wiharn that is constructed in the Laotian-style of architecture and features a triple-tiered roof with carved wooden eaves and dragon reliefs over the doors. Present inside the Wiharn is Phra Chao Lanthong, a beautiful sitting image of Lord Buddha designed in Sukhothai-style.
The temple is open to visitors’ everyday from 6.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. Best time to visit this temple is on the full moon day of the fourth lunar month, which is the end of February and the beginning of March. On this day, an annual fair takes place at this temple where the deity is worshipped.
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