Wat Luang is located on Kham Lue Road, Soi 1, in Nai Wiang Subdistrict. It is the oldest and most revered temple of Phrae Province, established at the same time as the founding of Phrae, formerly known as Phlanakhon, which once stood on the plains along the Yom River. For centuries, the temple has served as the religious and cultural heart of the city.

Throughout successive historical periods, Wat Luang has undergone continuous restoration, preserving its important religious and architectural heritage. Due to its outstanding historical and artistic value, the Fine Arts Department has registered Wat Luang as a national archaeological site with a history spanning over a thousand years.

Religious Structures and Key Attractions

Viharn Luang Phlanakhon

This ancient assembly hall was constructed together with the founding of Phrae and represents early Lanna architectural style. Inside enshrines Phra Chao Saen Luang, a highly revered Buddha image commissioned by the former rulers of Phrae in B.E. 2057 (1514 AD), and remains a central object of devotion today.

Phra That Luang Chai Chang Kham

A distinctive Chiang Saen–style stupa enshrining sacred Buddha relics brought from Hongsawadee (Hanthawaddy). It is regarded as one of the most important and sacred monuments of Phrae.

Phrae City Museum

The museum houses numerous ancient Buddha images, some nearly 500 years old, along with historical artifacts, documents, and palm-leaf manuscripts related to the history of Phrae, making it an essential learning center within the temple complex.

Khum Phra Lor

An exhibition area featuring traditional Lanna-style wooden houses, illustrating historical lifestyles, architecture, and cultural traditions of northern Thai communities.

Phrae Cultural Hall

A center dedicated to preserving local arts, crafts, household items, and traditional wisdom of Phrae Province, reinforcing Wat Luang’s role as both a religious sanctuary and a cultural learning hub.

• By Private Car: From Phrae city center, take Charoen Mueang Road, pass the roundabout, and continue straight along Kham Lue Road (the same route to Vongburi House). Wat Luang is located on the right-hand side. Facilities include on-site parking and restrooms, and traditional tricycle (samlor) services are available nearby.

• Dress modestly, avoiding sleeveless tops and short skirts or shorts, as the temple is a sacred site.

• Visit in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere ideal for worship and photography.

• Explore the Old Town on foot, linking Wat Luang with Vongburi House and Wat Phong Sunan.

• Visit during the Gin Salak Luang Festival to experience traditional Lanna merit-making ceremonies.

• Check museum opening hours in advance to ensure access to all exhibition areas.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 07:00 – 18:00

• Phrae City Museum: 09:00 – 16:00 (advance inquiry recommended)