Trat | Trang

Information

Landmark: Trat
City: Trang
Country: Thailand
Continent: Asia

Trat, Trang, Thailand, Asia

Wat Phra That Hariphunchai is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Lamphun, Thailand.

It is a significant religious site with a long history and distinctive architectural features.

Visual Characteristics

The central chedi, a Lanna-style stupa, is gilded and stands approximately 44 meters tall. It is surrounded by a rectangular cloister containing numerous Buddha images and smaller stupas. The temple complex is constructed primarily from brick and stucco, with decorative elements in gold leaf and colored tiles. The main temple buildings feature multi-tiered roofs with intricate carvings.

Location & Access Logistics

Wat Phra That Hariphunchai is situated in the center of Lamphun city, approximately 25 kilometers south of Chiang Mai. Access is via Highway 106. Ample parking is available within the temple grounds. Public transportation options include local buses from Chiang Mai to Lamphun, with the temple being a short walk from the main bus terminal.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The temple's origins date back to the 9th century, founded by Queen Chama Thewi, the first ruler of the Hariphunchai Kingdom. The main chedi is believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha. The site is built on a natural elevation, historically significant for its strategic position.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the main chedi and its surrounding structures. The temple museum houses historical artifacts. Meditation is practiced in designated areas. The temple grounds are open for exploration and photography.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the temple complex. Shade is provided by the temple buildings and mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good. Food vendors are located outside the main temple entrance.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is in the late afternoon when the sunlight illuminates the gilded chedi. The dry season, from November to February, offers pleasant weather. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A local legend states that the chedi was built to house a relic of the Buddha's collarbone. It is also said that the temple was once the royal palace of the Hariphunchai Kingdom.