Wat Suan Tan is located on Maha Yot Road, Nai Wiang, and is approximately 600 years old. Originally near a sugar palm garden, it was named “Wat Suan Tan.” The temple was established during the reign of Queen Pathummawadee in 1770. Its chedi is beautifully designed, with arched gates on all four sides. Photographs from the National Archives show the chedi before renovation in the era of King Suriyaphong Phritdet (Rama V). The chedi has a square base with a lotus-bud or rice-bundle style top, reflecting Sukhothai-era artistic influence.

Inside the vihara, the main Buddha image is Phra Chao Thong Thip, a large bronze Buddha in the Mara Vichaya posture. It was commissioned by King Tilokarat of Chiang Mai in 1992, measuring 10 feet wide and 14 feet 4 inches tall.

History:
In Chulasakarat 812 (B.E. 1993), King Tilokarat of Chiang Mai led forces to subdue various Lanna cities, eventually moving to capture Nan. He set camp at Suan Tan Luang for seven days, bombarding the city with cannons. The local ruler, Phaya Inta Kaen Thao, seeing the overwhelming forces and hearing of King Tilokarat’s power, evacuated his family, allowing the city to fall without battle.

After capturing Nan, King Tilokarat consulted his generals and decided to build a commemorative structure to mark his victory. He commissioned a large gilded Buddha statue, Phra Chao Thong Thip, weighing over 12,000 baht of gold, the largest gold usage in the Lanna region for a Buddha image. Artisans from Burma, the Tai Yao, and Chiang Saen attempted casting multiple times but failed until a mysterious elderly man in white helped successfully.

After completion, King Tilokarat held a grand consecration ceremony. The elderly helper disappeared afterward, leading locals to believe a divine spirit had assisted. The Buddha image was named Phra Chao Thong Thip, a revered statue to this day.

• By car: Drive into central Nan via Maha Yot Road

• By bus: Take local buses or songthaews to the temple area

• On foot: Accessible from nearby hotels in the city center

• Best visiting season: November–February, with cool and clear weather

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the temple

• Morning or late afternoon is ideal for photography

• Sample local food at nearby markets to experience Nan culture

• Visiting during festivals allows witnessing traditional religious ceremonies

Admission Fee:

• Free

Opening Hours:

• Daily 06:00–18:00