Lampang Tourist Attraction :
Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao
Another memorable destination present in the Lampang province that is worth a visit is the Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao.
Situated on the western banks of Wang River, this magnificent structure is considered as one of the most revered places in Thailand located amidst picturesque surroundings. Built in 1680 by the first king of Lampang, this temple is considered to be the most authentic display of ancient Burmese style of architecture.
The most interesting aspect of Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao is that it used to be the place where the famous Emerald Buddha image was once enshrined. The image is currently housed in Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand. The most notable feature of the temple is its sky soaring beautiful chedi that rests on a rectangular base with a circular spire adorned with gilded bronze plaques. This 50 meter (165 feet) structure is believed to contain the hair of Lord Buddha, and it is the only remaining structure in the entire temple. Present in front of the chedi is the mondop or prayer hall, a square open-sided structure that is constructed in the Burmese-style. Near the chedi is a Burmese-style chapel with a multi-tiered roof that was constructed in the late 18th century. Present at a slight distance from the main building is an ancient viharn that houses a reclining bronze image of Lord Buddha cast in Chiang Mai style.
The interiors of the temple are adorned with gorgeously decorated arched openings containing richly carved wooden frames. The pillars are decorated with the finest of scroll work while the magnificent coffer ceiling has some of the most imaginative and colorful mosaic decorations inlaid with enamel and small pieces of glass. Another interesting feature present at the entrance of the temple is an ancient and dilapidated museum that houses artifacts belonging to Lanna culture. Beautiful paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha are also present inside the temple. One will find in the garden of the temple the statue of a clay elephant with a small pavilion on its back. This statue serves as a reminder of events surrounding the famous Emerald Buddha and was discovered inside the Wat Phra Kaeo, Chiang Rai during the 15th century.