Wat Phra Nang Din is a historic and spiritual landmark of Chiang Kham District, Phayao Province. Its most significant feature is the Phra Chao Nang Din, a Buddha image in the subduing Mara posture that is enshrined directly on the ground — unlike other temples where Buddha images are elevated on a pedestal.

According to local elders, villagers once tried to build a pedestal (chukchi base) to raise the image, but each attempt was followed by a lightning strike hitting the ordination hall — three times in total. The villagers interpreted this as a divine sign that the Buddha wished to remain seated upon the earth itself, so they decided to leave the statue as it was. Since then, the Buddha image has been revered as Phra Chao Nang Din or “The Buddha Sitting on the Ground.”

The legend of Phuttharasa City, believed to correspond to present-day Chiang Kham, tells that in the year 1213 of the Buddhist Era (Monday, waxing moon of the 6th lunar month, Year of the Rooster), the Lord Buddha miraculously descended to Phuttharasa and sat atop Doi Singkuttara Hill, known today as Phra That Doi Kham. There, He bestowed blessings and instructed Phaya Kham Daeng, the ruler of the city, to create an image of Himself as an object of faith for the people.

The story continues that Indra, the Naga King, two hermits, and four arahants gathered sacred soil from Lanka to sculpt the Buddha image, completing it in one month and seven days. When the Buddha later revisited and saw that the image was smaller than Himself, He commanded that more soil be added to make it life-sized. The image then moved down from its pedestal to bow before the Buddha. The Blessed One then said:

“May you remain to preserve my teachings for 5,000 years.”

From that time onward, the Buddha image remained seated on the ground — becoming the Phra Chao Nang Din that is venerated today as the guardian of Chiang Kham.

The temple itself features elegant Lanna-style architecture, with intricate wooden carvings at the entrance and serene surroundings ideal for quiet reflection. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the temple’s profound legend, makes it a spiritually enriching destination for visitors seeking both cultural heritage and inner peace.

• From Chiang Kham town center, take Highway No. 1148 (Chiang Kham–Pong Road) and drive about 2 km toward the municipal market. The entrance to Wat Phra Nang Din is clearly signposted on the left. The temple is easily accessible by private car or local songthaew.

• Dress respectfully when entering the ordination hall.

• Visit in the morning for a calm atmosphere and comfortable temperature.

• Spend time meditating or offering prayers to the sacred Buddha image.

• Explore nearby local markets and traditional eateries in Chiang Kham.

• Visit during Buddhist holidays to witness local Tai Lue merit-making rituals.

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge

Opening Hours:

• Daily from 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM