Have you ever wished for something so intensely that you would climb a golden mountain for it? Here at Wat Phratat Doikham that wish might just come true. Wat Phratat Doikham is an ancient temple. It is perched atop Doi Kham. Doi Kham means Golden Mountain. The temple is over 1300 years old. It stands as a testament to Chiang Mai’s rich history.
Wat Phratat Doikham was established in 687 AD. Queen Chamadevi of the Haribunjaya Kingdom had her sons build it. The temple was originally named Wat Suwan Bunphot. This means Golden Mountain. Locals know it better as Wat Doi Kham.
Legend says giants once lived here. They were called Ji Kham and Ta Kiew. Villagers later knew them as Grandpa Sae and Grandma Sae. The name Doi Kham comes from a story. The giants received Buddha’s hair. Heavy rains washed gold ore down the mountain. It flowed into the cave’s mouth. Since then, it has been called Doi Kham.
Another story tells of celestials. They gifted Buddha’s relics to Pu Sae and Ya Sae. The giants buried the relics. They built a stupa on the mountain top. Later, the twin sons of Queen Chamadevi built a pagoda. It covered the original stupa. Inside, it enshrined Buddha’s hair.
The temple is famous for Luang Pho Than Jai. This Buddha image grants wishes. People believe it brings fortune. It heals sickness. Even gamblers come to pray for luck. Luang Pho Than Jai means instant bless Buddha. The name comes from how quickly it was built. Northern tradition favored building statues called Phra Chao Than Jai. These statues were completed in a single day. The ceremony started after midnight. It continued until sunset. People believe celestials help complete the statue. This makes it magical. Therefore, it grants wishes instantly.
People make vows to Luang Pho Than Jai. They offer jasmine garlands. It is a sign of gratitude. Visitors make one wish at a time. If the wish comes true, they return. They redeem their vow with jasmine garlands. Thousands of jasmine garlands adorn the altar. It shows the statue’s sanctity.
At the entrance stands the Speakable Buddha. It teaches patience in suffering. Not far away stand two elephant kings. Visitors walk through their legs. This eliminates bad luck. Elephants symbolize Buddhism. Phra That Doi Kham pagoda was built in 687 AD. It houses Buddha’s relics. Buddhists visit to worship.
You can also find a standing Buddha. There is also a giant reclining Buddha image. The temple offers stunning views. You can see Chiang Mai and Royal Park Rajapruek. A Lord Amarin shrine stands to the northeast of the pagoda. Food stalls and souvenir shops also dot the area.
Remember to dress respectfully. Avoid sleeveless tops and short skirts. Wear proper shoes. Some areas are steep. Stay on the marked paths. Check the weather. Rain and fog can occur quickly.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham opens daily. The hours are 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
As you descend Wat Phratat Doikham, consider the countless wishes whispered here. Think about the power of faith. Remember the giants and the golden mountain. May your own journey be blessed with good fortune and fulfilled desires.