History
Chiang Saen's Wat Phra That Doi Pu Khao is centered on a mondop surrounded by five small satellite
chedis at the back of the viharn. These structures are enclosed by double boundary walls with a staircase on each side,
except for the walls on the west side. According to legend,
Chao Kaeo Ma Muang had this temple constructed around 759. However, the architecture indicates that it was probably
constructed around the 14th century.
What to see
The car park offers a fine view of Sop Ruak, the center of the "Golden Triangle," where the borders of Myanmar, Laos
and Thailand meet. The main entrance of the temple is a
long staircase guarded by impressive crested nagas. The brick viharn has been renovated, as has a small shrine that women
are prohibited from entering.
Getting there
The temple is located on a hill overlooking Sop Ruak, a few kilometers north of Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai province.
Updated: November 4, 2009.
