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Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao is the most significant temple in the small quaint town of Lampang in northern Thailand. Built on the right bank of the Mae Nam Wang on Phra Kaeo Road, it has the distinction of having been home to the famous Emerald Buddha for 32 years in the fifteenth century. The Emerald Buddha has since, been in the Grand Palace at Bangkok, and is considered to be the country’s national symbol. Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao is called the temple of the Emerald Buddha for this reason.

 

The temple is believed to have been constructed in the seventh century AD by the son of the founder of Lampang, Queen Chama Devi. Today the temple only has the original chedi, which is 50 meter high. The chedi, believed to hold the hair of Lord Buddha stands on a rectangular base and has a circular spire along with gilded bronze plaques Burmese craftsmen constructed a Burmese style open prayer hall in front of the chedi in the year 1909. The viharn is home to the reclining Buddha. The walls are beautifully carved and studded with bright stones. A white statue of an elephant is found in the garden with a pavilion on its back.

According to a well-known legend, an elephant had been engaged to bring the emerald Buddha from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. But, the elephant, having a mind of its own, turned into Lampang with the Emerald Buddha on its back. Taking this as a divine signal, the Emerald Buddha was kept here before being taken to Chiang Mai after 32 years, till the next emperor took it to Chiang Mai. The compound also has a small museum depicting Lanna culture, with wooden carved relics, weapons, tools and some pottery pieces. The temple has a beautiful southern pavilion adorned by intricately carved pillars and wooden statues. Its mosaic ceiling is an artistic marvel, carved very finely in bright colors. The colors display harmony and perfect coordination. The Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao temple stands out as one of the most colorful religious monuments constructed by the Burmese in Thailand.