Sharing the same name as the country’s most-famed temple in Bangkok, this temple is supposedly where the highly-revered Emerald Buddha image was discovered when a lightning bolt split the stupa in two in 1434 to reveal the small image, which is in fact made of jade.

After being taken to Vientiane for a long spell, the image was then transferred to Bangkok and installed in the now world-famous Wat Phra Kaew as Thailand’s talisman.

There is now a replica of the Emerald Buddha in this temple, but you’ll have to walk round behind the viharn to see it in a building called the Hor Phra Yok. This temple has been subject to extensive renovations over the last decade, including the construction of the impressive Sangkaew Hall, a free museum that is open 09:00-17:00 daily, displaying all kinds of items that are used in Buddhist worship, along with explanations in English.

The main viharn, located just inside the entrance gates, is a classic Lanna-style building with low-sweeping eaves, and the entire compound is shaded by lush tropical growth, making it a delightful place to explore.

it’s easy to walk there form the town center, or just a short ride in a tuk-tuk.

  • What is it? Chiang Rai’s most important temple.
  • Opening hours: 06:00-18:00 daily
  • Entrance fee: free
  • Address: Trairat Road
  • Where: to the northwest of the city center