SACRED SITES OF THE ANCIENT LANNA THAI KINGDOM OF
NORTHERN THAILAND
SACRED SITES IN CHIANG MAI
SACRED STUPAS (PHRA THAT)
Many chedis or stupas contain holy relics, pieces of bone of the historical Buddha. In Northern and Northeastern Thailand, these chedis are called ‘phra that’.
The word ‘chedi’ originates from the word ‘cetiya’ in Pali. The chedi, or stupa, is a solid cone-shaped monument. Chedis throughout the Thai kingdom reflect a vast range of architectural styles. Chedis in Northern Thailand are multi-sided and more elaborate, while others take the shape of an inverted bowl or bell-shaped structure. Chedis symbolise the enduring stability of Buddhism.
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Wat Phra Boromma That Doi Suthep or Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
The temple situated on Doi Suthep mountain peak is the site of a large golden stupa that houses the holy relics of the historical Buddha. This is a sacred pilgrimage site visited by Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world. The temple was built by King Kue-na in 1383 A.D. |
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Wat Phra Singha Voramahaviharn |
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Wat Phra Singha Voramahaviharn, one of the important temples of Chiang Mai, is built in the Lanna or Northern Thai architectural style. The monastery houses Phra Buddhasihing, a Buddha image deemed to the guardian and protector of the city of Chiang Mai.
The sacred Phra Buddhasihing Buddha image is seated in a cross-legged posture with the right hand rested on the lap. During the Songkan Thai New Year celebrations, a Buddhist procession of Phra Buddhasihing along the city streets presents an opportunity for local residents and visitors to pay homage by sprinkling lustral water onto the sacred Buddha image. |
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WAT POTHARAM Wat Potharam |
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Chedi Jet Yot Mahaviharn Bhodi-buddhakaya
Chedi Phra Sri Maha-Pho
This magnificent pagoda at Wat Chedi Chet Yot was inspired by the Maha Bhodi Chedi in Bodhgaya in India.
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NINE SACRED TEMPLES WITH AUSPICIOUS NAMES
In Thai culture, nine is considered to be an auspicious number. All of the temples listed below have auspicious names. It is believed that a merit-making pilgrimage to these nine sacred sites will bring good luck. Individual who complete the journey will earn much merit.
- Wat Chiang Man
- Wat Phra Sing
- Wat Chedi Luang
- Wat Chaimongkon
- Wat Loi Kroh
- Wat Dab Pai
- Wat Chiang Yuen
- Wat Muen Ngoen Khong
Contact information:
TAT Northern Office – Region 1
Areas of responsibility: the provinces of Chiang Mai, Lamphun,
Lampang and Mae Hong Son
Tel: 053 248604, 248607 241466
Fax: 053 248605
E-mail: tatchmai@tat.or.th
RELIGIOUS TRAVEL
SACRED PILGRIMAGE SITES
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