One of the most interesting temples in the area around Khun Yuam is Wat To Phae, located about 6km to the west of town. It is a beautiful Burmese temple with an attractive chedi that makes an excellent focus for a trip outside Khun Yuam, as the landscapes along the way are very appealing.
The most outstanding aspect of Wat To Phae is its intricate meditation hall (viharn), which is Burmese by design. There is also a gold-topped chedi next to the viharn, as well as an attractive Mon-style pagoda. All three buildings are beautifully constructed and very well maintained.
The temple was apparently built by local Shan logging folk working in the area who were there building teak rafts to transport their wares along the river. The rafters eventually pooled their skills and built this wonderful temple - the title, Wat To Phae, meaning ‘temple of raft assembling’.
The three structures are highly photogenic, plus there are also many fascinating artifacts onsite, including a beautiful ruby-encrusted tapestry and a seated Buddha image. The tapestry is a stunning piece of work that is encrusted with rubies and pearls and measuring about 4 meters wide.
Wat To Phae is undoubtedly beautiful in its own right, yet it also boasts a stunning locale next to a lazy river and is flanked by bright green paddy fields.
Getting There
Irregular public buses run direct from Khun Yuam to Wat To Phae, though it would also make a pleasant bicycle or motorbike ride because of the lovely scenery along the way.
Need to Know
- What is it? A temple built by a Burmese group of raft builders hundreds of years ago
- Opening hours: 06:00-18:00 daily
- Entrance fee: free
- Where: about six kilometers west of Khun Yuam.