Wat Buak Khrok Luang, formerly called Wat Muang Kham, has no precise construction date documented. However, based on the history of its mural paintings, the vihara is estimated to be at least 300 years old. The name “Buak Khrok Luang” comes from local language: “Buak Khrok” means “pit” and “Luang” means “large,” possibly named after the village or inspired by a local legend in which a ruler once dug a large pit to distribute rice to the people during times of scarcity.

Ancient Lanna Vihara Architecture

The vihara is a large structure combining brick, mortar, and wood, exhibiting elegant Lanna proportions. Key features include:

• Interior structure: Originally an open hall emphasizing the wooden framework called “Ma Tang Mai,” a distinctive Lanna feature. Twelve large wooden columns in the center support the roof. Later, solid walls were added to the sides and rear.

• Roof and gable: The roof is a triple-tiered gable covered with terracotta tiles. Chofa and hang hong decorations in the form of naga reflect the belief that the vihara represents Mount Meru, guarded by naga. The wooden gable is paneled and adorned with glass, with an inscription from 1925 B.E. marking a major restoration during the reign of Chao Kaew Nawarat (the last ruler of Chiang Mai).

• Entrance and elements: The front staircase features a makara-naga-carving with a parrot’s beak, a unique design not found elsewhere. The corners are decorated with standing Thepphanom (guardian angels), an ornate Lanna-style sermon seat (Thamma Sath), and ritual objects used in the traditional Lanna cosmology.

Murals (Hup Taem) by Tai Yai Artists

The murals inside the vihara are a major attraction for visitors and art enthusiasts, celebrated for their age and the refined craftsmanship of Tai Yai artists:

• Content: There are 14 rooms of paintings illustrating Buddhist history and Jataka tales. Wat Buak Khrok Luang features six Jataka stories (e.g., Temiya Jataka, Mahosadha Jataka, Vessantara Jataka), more than most other temples in Lanna.

• Uniqueness: The murals are characterized by vivid colors and dynamic brushstrokes, especially in natural scenes such as hills, rocks, and rivers.

• Social significance: The murals not only narrate religious stories but also serve as social historical records, depicting architecture, clothing (both commoners and Tai Yai/Pagan-style attire for the elite), and daily life in Chiang Mai during that era.

By private car or hired transport:

• The temple is on the old Chiang Mai–San Kamphaeng Road. From Chiang Mai city, head east, pass the Nong Prateep Intersection, continue on Chiang Mai–San Kamphaeng Road, and after passing the turn to San Kamphaeng (Highway 1006), the temple entrance is on the right-hand side.

• The temple can be visited year-round, as it is an indoor religious site. The best time to visit is from morning to late afternoon when natural light enhances the visibility of the murals.

• As the vihara is an ancient structure and the murals are delicate, visitors should walk respectfully, avoid touching the paintings, and refrain from rubbing the artwork.

• Dress modestly when entering the temple.

• Art enthusiasts should take time inside the vihara to study the details of each painting, which are rich in stories and artistic beauty.

• The temple is near other attractions and popular restaurants along the old Chiang Mai–San Kamphaeng Road, making it suitable for a half-day trip combined with nearby sites.

Admission Fee:

• Free

Opening Hours:

• Open daily, approximately 06:00 – 19:00 (best to visit during daylight).