Overview:

Wat Phra That Doi Noi - Nan (Thai: วัดพระธาตุดอยน้อย-น่าน) is a Buddhist temple located in the town of Nan, in the upper north of Thailand. It is a major pilgrimage site and a revered religious landmark of the province. This temple, also known as the Golden Castle, is situated on a hilltop and overlooks the town and the Nan River. It is believed that the temple was founded in the 14th century and was originally the capital of the Lan Na Kingdom. As such, the temple is steeped in history and its many statues and sculptures tell many a tale. The prominent feature of this temple is its golden chedi, made of several tiers of terracotta prangs, or towers. Several smaller stupas are placed around this larger chedi and the whole structure is surrounded by a tall protective wall. Inside the temple complex, visitors can explore the many halls, chapels and galleries. It a highly revered site and is very popular with Buddhists from Thailand and beyond. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

- A hilltop temple complex located on one of the highest peaks in Nan Province, Thailand, Wat Phra That Doi Noi towers 174 meters above sea level. - This revered Buddhist site was built in 16th century by the local ruler. It offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. - The temple is comprised of a large stupa, several chedis as well as several temples and shrines, many of which are decorated with intricate carvings. - A major attraction is the statue of Ho Phrathat Chonphra, the local National and Religious King. It is believed to contain a relic from the Lord Buddha himself. - Visitors can find many religious artifacts and souvenirs as well as visit some of the many local festivals and events taking place at the temple. - The site is also famous for its abundance of wildlife especially numerous species of birds. - Every year thousands visit Wat Phra That Doi Noi to pay their respects and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Phra That Doi Noi is a Buddhist temple located in Nan, Thailand. The temple is of particular importance due to the large standing Buddha statue, known as Phra That Doi Noi Worawihan, that is located here. This image of the Buddha is believed to date back to the 14th century. Wat Phra That Doi Noi is believed to have been built during the Lanna period of Thailand and was likely first constructed in the 14th or 15th century. The temple was rebuilt and expanded over the centuries and the current complex dates back to the 18th century. In 1984, the revered Buddha statue was moved to Wat PhRA THAT Doi Noi from the nearby temple Wat Phra That Chang Kham. The safeguarding of the temple has become a priority in recent years as it is believed to be one of the oldest still standing Buddhist temples in Nan, and indeed in all of Thailand. In 1989, the Department of Fine Arts registered Wat Phra That Doi Noi as a Historix Monumental Zone. In 2006, Wat Phra That Doi Noi was awarded the Queen's award for Cultural Conservation, in recognition of the efforts made by the temple’s monks and villagers to preserve and protect the temple complex. In 2008, the temple underwent extensive renovations to its stupa and windows. Currently, the temple serves as an active and vibrant hub for the Buddhist faith and is visited by many pilgrims and visitors every year who come to pay their respects and experience the ancient and sacred atmosphere of this unique place. Wat Phra That Doi Noi’s location and history make it an important symbol in Thailand’s cultural landscape. The temple is a reminder of the importance of preserving the traditions and culture that have been passed down over centuries. It serves as a testament to the resilience of Thailand’s Buddhist faith and offers a peaceful respite from the bustle of modern life. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Phra That Doi Noi is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Nan Province, Thailand. 2. The temple was built in the 18th century, and its architecture is influenced by “Lanna” style. 3. The temple houses a large statue of the Buddha, which is one of the biggest in Thailand. 4. Wat Phra That Doi Noi has been declared a National Historic Site and is considered to be a major pilgrimage center in Nan Province. 5. The temple also houses a library with various historical scriptures and artwork related to Buddhism. 6. Wat Phra That Doi Noi is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a waterfall, making it an ideal spot for photography and meditation. 7. The temple holds an annual event known as the “Magha Puja”, which is held in February every year and attracts Buddhist devotees from all over Thailand. 8. Wat Phra That Doi Noi is considered to be the spiritual home to many Buddhists in Nan Province. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.