Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang

Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang
Lampang

Background
Legend has it that during the Buddha period, the Buddha and senior monks wandered from one city to another until they arrived in Ban Lamphakaliwan (Ban Lampang Luang).  When the Buddha was staying on Doi Mon Noi, there was a Lua man called Lua Ai Kon who had faith in the Buddha and offered him some fruits and honey in a container made of coconut leaf.  After finishing the honey, the Buddha threw the container in a Northern direction and prophesied that later that place would, be named “Lamphakappa Nakhon”.  The Buddha then plucked out a hair and gave it to Lua Ai Kon.  He put the hair in a gold casket and placed it in a tunnel where he laid jewels in worship.  Then, a 3.5-metre tall Chedi was built over the tunnel.

The Chedi underwent several restorations, which were ordered by a number of Lampang rules.  This bell-shape tower is now gilded and adorned with a gold tiered-umbrella on the top.  The Chedi houses the Buddha’s hair as well as bone relics from the forehead and the neck.  These relics are surrounded metal fences for protection.  There is also an entrance gate called “Pratu Khong” at the South of the Phrathat.

Belief
Phrathat Lampang Luang is for worshipers who were born in the Year of the Ox.  It is believed that worshiping Phrathat Lampang Luang will rectify any bad situations.  This explains why the temple is very crowded with worshipers.  When you enter the Buddha’s Footprint Hall and look at the Phrathat through the hall, you will see a stunning image of the Phrathat inverted.  This is the origin of the belief that worshiping the Phrathat will turn a problem into a success.  In Buddhist teaching, however, pure perseverance will lead one’s life to success.

Attractions
The Traditional entrance gate or Pratu Khong is a work of art completed by ancient royal artists.  The gate is characterized by a spire rooftop adorned with stucco designs of mythical flowers and creatures.  The gate is used in the design of the provincial seal of Lampang Province.  The main Wihan serves as the presiding Wihan of the temple.  This building in a rectangular shape houses the Mondop of Phrachao Lan Thong.

How to get there
Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang is located at Lampang Luang Sub-district, Ko Kha District, Lampang Province.  From downtown Lampang, take Highway 1 until you arrive at Ko Kha District.  Turn right and continue for about 2 kilometers.  Then take Highway 1034 for about 3 kilometers and turn let: and continue for about 10 meters.