Wat Chai Mongkol in Lampang is another unique landmark in the city. This is due to its stunning architecture and history. Explore this temple you can’t miss when visiting Lampang.
Wat Chai Mongkol – when was this place built?
To understand the history of the temple, one must go back some 300 years. It was once an abandoned area overgrown with grass and many large trees. It was here that the gallows and the quarters of Burmese, Shan, and Lanna soldiers were located.
During the reign of King Thipchang (1732-1759), Moung Pok, who donated the land, also attempted to build a temple there. Unfortunately, due to lack of financial resources, this project failed.
The next owner of this land was U-Ngwezin Swanna-adth, a wealthy Burmese man who built a monastic settlement here. The construction work resulted in the appearance of numerous huts with thatched roofs covered with cogon grass. It is where the temple’s original name, Wat Chong Kha, comes from – chong meaning temple and kha meaning cogon grass. Thus, the place known today as Wat Chai Mongkol was born.
The white Viharn at Wat Chai Mongkol
The most impressive and eye-catching building is the white Viharn. It has two floors, is 15 meters high, and features a wooden roof in the Burmese style, though it also incorporates European elements.
The building’s facade is decorated with glistening glass and images of devas, also made of glass. The pillars were formerly decorated with gemstones, although they now feature foliage designs made of gold metal wire and glass.
Inside the Viharn stands a bronze Buddha in the Māravijaya posture, which was brought from Mandalay, the capital of Burma, in the early 20th century. In front of the Buddha stands a statue of Bo Bo Gyi, a protective and good luck deity.
The ceiling is also beautifully decorated, featuring images of a peacock and a rabbit. The peacock is considered a symbol of the sun, the origin of the Burmese people. The rabbit, on the other hand, symbolizes the moon, which refers to the origin of the royal family that ruled Burma.
Moreover, in the Viharn you can also see other beautiful decorations and learn about the history of the temple through photos.
Other structures at Wat Chai Mongkol
There are other structures within the temple complex. Here you can see the Ubosot (Ordination Hall) built in 1979, a white Burmese-style chedi containing hair relics, and an entrance arch also characterized by Burmese architecture.
Summary and FAQ
Wat Chai Mongkol is undoubtedly a must-see attraction in Lampang. Especially if you enjoy visiting Buddhist temples, of which there are many in the city. Besides, Lampang offers many Burmese-style structures. We wish you a pleasant and fruitful visit to the city and province.
FAQ
Where is Wat Chai Mongkol?
The temple is located in Hua Wiang Sub-District on Sanambin Street.
How to get to Wat Chai Mongkol?
The temple can be reached by taxi, songthaew, horse-drawn carriage, or on foot.
How much does admission cost to Wat Chai Mongkol?
Nothing, admission is free.
What are the temple's opening hours?
Every day from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
What other attractions are near Wat Chai Mongkol?
Very close to the north is Wat Pa Fang (250 m), and a little further west is Wat Sri Chum (700 m). These are other very beautiful temples in Lampang.
