Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai
Wat Phra Singh (Temple of the Sighing Buddha) was built during the zenith of Chiang Mai's power, and is one of the more venerated shrines in the city.
The temple is still the site of many important religious ceremonies, particularly during the Songkran Festival.
History
King Phayu, of Mengrai lineage, built the chedi (mounds) in 1345, principally to house the cremated remains of King Kamfu, his father. An image of the "Sighing Buddha" was brought to the site by King Muang Ma in 1400.
What to See
To the right as you enter the grounds is the temple library, dating from the 14th century. Notice the graceful carving and the characteristic roofline with four separate elevations. The sculptural devata (Buddhist spirits) figures, in both dancing and meditative poses, are thought to date from the early 16th century. They decorate a stone base designed to keep the fragile sa (mulberry bark) manuscripts elevated from flooding and rats.
On the other side of the temple complex is the 200-year-old Lai Kham (Gilded Hall) Wihaan, housing the venerated image of the Phra Singh or Sighing Buddha. The original Buddha's head was stolen in 1922, but the reproduction in its place doesn't diminish the homage paid to this figure during the Songkran Festival.
Inside are frescoes illustrating the stories of Sang Thong (the Golden Prince of the Conchshell) and Suwannahong. These images reveal much about the religious, civil, and military life of 19th-century Chiang Mai.
More than 700 monks study here, and you will probably find them especially friendly and curious.
Quick Facts
| Location: | Samlarn and Ratchadamnoen roads, Chiang Mai, Thailand |
| Hours: | Daily 6am-5pm |
| Cost: | Suggested donation 20B (approx. 45¢) |
