Wat Phra Yuen, formerly called Wat Phruet Maha Sathan, is an ancient temple that served as the eastern guardian temple of Hariphunchai City. It is located on the east bank of the Kuang River in the historic Wiang Yong community.

Legend of the Standing Buddhas

Originally, there was only one standing Buddha image at the site. Later, around the 14th century, King Kue Na of Chiang Mai invited Phra Sumana Thera from Sukhothai to reside here and ordered the construction of three additional standing Buddha images, facing north, south, and west, completing the four directions. This gave rise to the name “Wat Phra Yuen” (Temple of the Standing Buddha).

Architectural Significance

The present chedi represents Pagan (Myanmar) artistic influence and was extensively restored during the reign of Chao Luang Inthayongyot by royal master craftsmen.

The structure is a square mandapa-style base with niches housing standing Buddha images on all four sides. The top features a five-spired arrangement, consisting of a central bell-shaped stupa surrounded by four smaller corner stupas. Its overall design closely resembles Ananda Temple in Bagan, making it one of the finest examples of Pagan-influenced architecture in Northern Thailand.

Hidden Mystery Beneath the Base

The current chedi was built over the ruins of the original mandapa, meaning the original standing Buddha image remains buried within the base. Because of this sacred belief, a traditional rule prohibits women from ascending the chedi platform.

• By Car: From Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, cross Hua Mung Bridge into Wiang Yong, then follow the road signs for about 1 km.

• Women are traditionally not allowed to go up onto the chedi base

• Best visiting time 4:00–5:00 PM for dramatic lighting on the Buddha niches

• The best photo spot is the front courtyard

• Don’t miss the old wooden museum building inside the temple

• Combine your trip with Hua Mung Bridge and Wat Phra That Hariphunchai

Admission Fee:

• Free

Opening Hours:

• Open daily: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM