WAT PHRA SINGH

Wat Phra Singh is one of the 3 most important temples of Chiang Mai. Built in 1345 by King Phayu, it is a fine example of Lanna architecture, but the building we see now dates from the 19th century. On the right, the Scripture Library, called Ho Trai, a delicate wooden building rebuilt in 1920 on old foundations. The chapel(bot) has carved woodwork and beautiful doors. Inside, two superb statues of seated Buddhas, in the style of Chieng Sen. The most beautiful and sacred part is the Laikham viharn, a small building of very beautiful proportions where the Phra Singh Buddha rests, who arrived at the temple in 1367 and who gives his name to the temple. It is not clear what its origin is, but the head is obviously not of the period (probably stolen, it had to be replaced). It is said to have come from the Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya, India. The walls are covered with frescoes that evoke everyday life in Lanna over a hundred years ago: children playing, lovers in the bushes, women chatting... The clothes, tattoos and everyday objects give a fairly accurate idea of that time. These frescos are the most beautiful of Chiang Mai. This very venerated temple is one of the principal places of the festival of Songkran; on this occasion the principal statue of Buddha leaves to parade in the streets of the old city. It is possible to discuss with one of the 700 monks residing in the temple, it is the occasion to ask them your questions (in English of course).