Pongsanook Temple
Northern Thailand, known for the last few centuries as “Lanna”, means “land of the
one million rice fields” was until recently a quite independent political entity. The physical
valleys, hemmed in by forested range, kept it apart; collection of small, self-governing
principalities that developed their own culture, art and architecture.
Lampang was reputedly founded by one of the twin sons of Queen Jamadavi over
1,300 years ago. The original center was North of the Wang River, around PhraKaew Don Tao
Temple, while the existing center is at Pongsanook Temple and the first pillar of the city was
erected here in 1857 (B.E.2400), in the reign of Chao Worayanrangsriratchatham, which not
too far from the ancient city wall. Lampang used to be the log industry center for British,
Burmese and Thai traders in 18th century, which influences reflect on community, seen on
historical architectural style or the spiritual dances passing on over 200 years.
Pongsanook Temple combines Lanna, Burmese and Chinese styles as, on a mould built
up to represent Mount Meru, home of the gods.