Wat Phra That Pha Ngao, Amphor Chiang Saen is another important old temple of Chiang Rai province.
There is a chedi called Pha Ngao standing on a huge rock in the temple compound and that is where its name is derived from.
The word “Pha Ngao” means a reflection of a large rock with the shape resembling a chedi and providing shade. With such environment setting, the villagers hence called it “Phra That Pha Ngao” (the Relic Stupa of the Shady Rock). It is believed that Khun Pa Ping , the 23rd ruler of the Yonok Nakhon Kingdom had it constructed during BE 494- 512.
Besides the pagoda itself, some other remarkable points of interest are the Phra Chedi Yod (Seven Spired Pagoda), Phra Chedi Chom Chan, a vihara housing an image of Luang Phor Pha Ngao, Buddha Nimit Stupa and the superb ornaments of the Pha Ngao Gate.