Wat Phra Kaew

The real thing is in Bangkok

What we say:

This is the most highly revered wat in Chiang Rai. Legend has it that in 1434 the stupa was struck by lightning and fell apart to reveal the Emerald Buddha. From that moment on, the statue travelled, visiting Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Ayutthaya, Lopburi, Kamphaeng Phet, Chiang Mai, Lampang and Vientiane over a period of more than 300 years. Today it rests in Bangkok in the temple of the same name. An almost but not exact replica was made from Canadian jade in celebration of the Queen Mother's 90th birthday and it is now housed on site. With its lush gardens and large stands of bamboo (it was once known as the Bamboo Forest monastery), Wat Phra Kaew has peaceful grounds and at the base of the enclosure that holds the jade replica a pond plays host to massive turtles.

More details

Trairat Rd, Chiang Rai

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