Wat Chetawan is a place that is hard to miss when you are in Lampang. The temple is located close to many attractions in the city and stands out from other buildings due to its architecture. This makes it easy to find, and we invite you to read some useful information about it.
Wat Chetawan – modern style
When visiting Lampang and walking along the Wang River between Ratsada Phisek Bridge and Khelang Nakhon Bridge, you can see golden stupas rising above other buildings and trees. This is Wat Chetawan, which has a slightly different architecture from other temples. This is due to Burmese and Indian influences. In addition, during construction, a more modern style was chosen, and this also applies to other buildings in the complex.
If we talk about the history of the temple, it was founded in 1874 and belongs to the Dhammayuttika Nikāya Order. It received Visungkhamasima in 1962. This is a royal privilege to give monks land separated from the country. Temples that have received such a privilege have a legal status.
What is in Wat Chetawan?
Ubosot
The largest building is the Ordination Hall. On its roof are the aforementioned golden stupas. Inside this characteristic object is the main image of the Buddha from the Chiang Saen period. The Enlightened One is shown in the Māravijaya attitude. This monument is surrounded by many other smaller statues of the Buddha and saints.
The walls are decorated with beautiful paintings depicting the life of Siddhartha Gautama – that was the name of the Buddha.
The temple also holds services on each day of the waning moon, during which sermons are listened to and alms are given.
Stupa
The appearance of the stupa is a color reference to the Ubosot – a white bottom and a golden top. At the base of the pagoda are several bronze Buddha statues from the Chiang Saen period. They are believed to be older than the monument in the Ordination Hall.
There is another statue by the wall of the Ubosot next to the stupa. It is a Reclining Buddha, about 10 m long.
Standing Buddha
Near the entrance is an image of the Enlightened One called Phra Suktoputtho. Interestingly, it was made on Monday, May 24, 1976, by the then abbot of the temple, Phra Khru Banphot Saman Khun. He was the designer and sculptor.
Institute of Psychic Power
In the temple complex, there is a building belonging to the Institute of Psychic Power. Meditations and various courses related to meditation are held here.
Information for visitors
Location
Wat Chetawan is located in Hua Wiang Sub-District of Lampang District near the Wang River.
Access
The temple can be reached by taxi, songthaew, or carriage. The convenient location also allows for walking.
Entrance fee
Entrance is free. Voluntary donations to the temple are welcome.
Opening hours
Every day from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.
What other attractions are near Wat Chetawan?
Heading west along the Wang River, you will come across the famous Kad Kong Ta Night Market and Ratsadaphisek Bridge. The distance is about 1 km. On the way, you can see Wang River Street Art.
On the other side of the river is Wat Pratu Pong and Lampang Cultural Street Market. The route to cover is over a kilometer.
Wat Chetawan – summary
The temple is an interesting place to visit. The unusual architecture certainly adds to its charm. Wat Chetawan is located in a convenient location, which also has its advantages. If you happen to be in the area, then go here. It is a great opportunity to see an amazing temple. You can then continue exploring Lampang.
