Overview:

: Wat Phra That Mae Yen is a Buddhist Temple located at the base of the Mae Yen mountain in Mae Hong Son province of Thailand. The temple was founded in the 18th century, and it is one of the most important sites of pilgrimage in the province. The temple is an important part of the local spiritual culture, and is home to many important shrines, as well as a revered image of the Lord Buddha. Visitors can explore the main chedi of the temple, with its four ancient statues, as well as the smaller chedi towers and statuettes. The temple is ornamented with elaborate carvings and colourful frescos, and visitors can also admire the nearby mountain, which is a well-known pilgrimage site. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

1. Unique Chedi: The most iconic feature of Wat Phra That Mae Yen is the large, white Chedi or stupa that towers above the temple grounds. This unique structure is topped by a trapezoid-shaped golden umbrella that amazes visitors. 2. Wooden Pavilions: Surrounding the Chedi are several wooden pavilions, each with intricately carved posts and pitched roofs. Some of these pavilions depict scenes from Buddha’s life, while others feature peacocks and other symbols of spirituality and wealth. 3. Monks’ Cell: A monk’s cell is situated off the main part of the temple, complete with various monk-related items including Buddha images, Buddhist scriptures, prayer flags, and incense. 4. Buddha Images: Around the temple grounds are several Buddha images, some of which have been presented to the temple by locals throughout the ages. 5. Giant Holy Scriptures: Huge scriptures stand against the stunning backdrop of the Mae Hong Son mountains, giving visitors a great photo opportunity. 6. Natural Setting: The temple is naturally set against the beautiful Mae Hong Son mountain range, which can be seen no matter where you look from the temple grounds. This provides an enjoyable setting for visitors to explore the holy temple. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Wat Phra That Mae Yen is a temple located in Mae Hong Son in Thailand. The temple dates back to at least 1780 and is dedicated to the Buddhist temple of Wat Phra That Mae Yen. The temple houses several statues, a large Golden Chedi and a Phra That Mae Yen relic. It is believed to be the oldest temple in Mae Hong Son province. During the reign of King Rama IV of Siam (1851-1868), Wat Phra That Mae Yen was made a royal temple. Wat Phra That Mae Yen was restored in the late 19th century and decorated with wall murals, frescoes and other decorations. The temple features two stupas with murals of the Phra That Red and White, a standing Buddha and a Chedi containing the 18th Buddha relic. Much of the original art from the restoration has been removed in the modern era, leaving the temple in a more simple state. However, the original paintings and some art from the restoration remain today and can be seen in the temple's museum. In recent years, Wat Phra That Mae Yen has increased in importance and it now serves over 100 monks and 100 novices from across Thailand and around the world. The temple also serves as a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and visitors come from near and far to enjoy the temple's beauty and to respectfully pay their respects to the Buddha relic held here. Every year, on the 6th month of the Thai lunar calendar, Wat Phra That Mae Yen hosts an event to celebrate the relic. This event sees traditional performances, prayer ceremonies, rituals and religious exhibitions, attracting thousands of people. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Phra That Mae Yen has Been Around Since the 14th Century:Located in the northernmost province of Thailand, Wat Phra That Mae Yen is said to have been established as early as the 14th century, making it one of the oldest temples in the country. 2. It’s Home to a White Chedi (Stupa):The unique white chedi (stupa) in the middle of the temple complex has become synonymous with Wat Phra That Mae Yen. The roof of the chedi is made from a combination of marble and tiles and houses a Buddha statue believed to have been presented to the temple as an offering from the city’s ruler in the 14th century. 3.The Temple is Home to Over 600 Buddha Images:Within the precincts of Wat Phra That Mae Yen resides over 600 Buddha images, each one varying in size, design and age. Many of the images are surrounded by vibrant flowers and incense sticks, lending an ethereal atmosphere to the area. 4. The Temple is Built on an Ancient Burial Site:According to archaeological research, Wat Phra That Mae Yen is said to have been built on an ancient burial site, which predates its 14th century establishment. Historians believe that this may explain the presence of the 600-odd Buddha images in the temple. 5. Wat Phra That Mae Yen is Set Amidst Lush Greenery:The temple attracts numerous visitors each year who come to experience the beauty of its serene, jungle-like setting. The lush greenery combined with traditional architecture and murals makes the temple a must-visit destination in Mae Hong Son. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.