Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Singh is a historical Buddhist temple and one of the most cherished choices for travelers in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand.  With elegant architecture, opulent buildings, collection of images, this is a hub for traditional art and culture with religious reverence in the country. 
In 1345, King Phayu, the fifth king of the Mangrai dynasty started the concoction of this magnificent temple to preserve the ashes of his late father. After his time, several renovations were made; few more buildings were added and it was started to be called as Wat Lichiang Phra. In 1367, the venerated statue of Phra Buddha Singh was brought to the temple. It is said, that the origin of the statue was Mahabodhi temple, Bodh Gaya. It was lost for quite some time and moved around many places until it was enshrined in Chaing Mai, by which time, it acquired its present name. From then on the temple has experienced many ebb and flow. During the Burmese rule, it was abandoned but in 1782 when King Kawila took the throne, the lost glory was preserved again.
The whole temple complex is mesmerizing for its intricate architectures. The lavish and luxurious buildings with subtle colors and shades complement the pristine environment. The Viharn Luang, the main prayer hall was built in 1925. The exotic exterior with its intriguing carvings gives a sense of otherworldliness. The roof, divided into three tiers with three horizontal strips is sweeping low following a Northern Thai style. The entrance is decorated with a pair of nagas. There are three doors at the porch adorned with lintels which have also forms like nagas. The serpentine staircase will direct you to the interior which is quite plain and simple giving an aura of purity and calmness. The white walls give more prominence to the Buddha image, Phra Chaon Thong Thip Buddha which is enthralling for its luminous golden color.
The Viharn Lai Kham is another splendid building with distinct Lanna architecture. The matted wooden color adds an appealing charm to the whole building. A pair of nagas, erected at the entrance inspires awe. The interior is decorated with a gold-red wall bearing colorful murals that are laden with different stories. Prince Dhammalanka made these murals in the 1820s with colorful pictures and inscriptions from Jataka and Buddha texts. However, the main point of attraction here is the famous Buddha statue, Phra Buddha Sihing which is illuminating the whole interior.
Situated behind the Viharn Lai Kham is Kulai Chedi, which is a temple-like structure with a five-tier roof. It was built by King Mueangkaeo. On its west side, the sitting Buddha, residing in an alcove imparts an antique look.
What draws numerous travelers to Wat Phra Singh temple is its fine blending of the ancient and modern. It is a place where history speaks itself.  The serenity of the atmosphere in the gardens and the chapels will have a calming effect on your soul, and the massive buildings with all its intricacies, the gilded canopies, and the golden glitter of the huge Buddha statue will excite your mind.