What if a white elephant chose the location of this temple? That’s the legend surrounding Wat Phra That Doi Kham. We are standing at Doikham Panorama Viewpoint also known as Wat Phra That Doi Kham. It is a special place for local people. Many call it the Golden Temple.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham was built over 1300 years ago around 687 A.D. The temple sits on a lush mountainside near Chiang Mai. For a time it was abandoned. But in 1966, villagers found a hidden chamber. Inside were many ancient Buddha images. This discovery led to the temple’s revitalization.
The oldest part of Wat Phra That Doi Kham is the pagoda. It was built in the Buddhist Year 1230 B.E. This pagoda contains a hair of Lord Buddha. The ancient chedi collapsed during the rainy season in 2008 A.D. It is considered the sister pagoda to Phra That Doi Suthep.
Look at the 17-meter-tall Phra Buddha Napeesipinkarat Buddha image. See the beautiful statues inside the Ubosot near the Chedi. Not far from the temple stands a large white pearl Buddha statue. It stands out against the mountain greenery.
Local people believe in the power of Luang Por Tun Jai. If you wish for something and it comes true, you must offer Jasmine flowers to the Buddha. When you pray to Luang Por Tan Jai, make only one wish. Say your name and surname. Promise at least 50 jasmine garlands if your wish comes true within three months. Many people return to thank the Buddha.
From Doikham Panorama Viewpoint look at the views. You can see Chiang Mai city. You can also see the Doi Pui Mountain landscape. Wat Phra That Doi Kham is located southwest of Chiang Mai. It is in the Mae Hia sub district. It’s about 10 kilometers from the town center. It is located just north of Royal Flora Ratchaphruek.
The temple is known for its 17-meter-tall Buddha image. Other large Buddha statues include Big Buddha Phuket and Big Buddha Pattaya. The chedi enshrines a sacred relic of the Buddha. According to legend two giants lived in the Doi Kham area. They were cannibals. The Buddha convinced them to stop and convert to Buddhism. He gave them a hair relic now enshrined in the chedi.
The courtyard has many bells and gongs for visitors to strike. Large warrior figures and white lions guard the grounds. The ubosot is ornate with Naga barge boards. The facade has a golden peacock motif. The temple’s hilltop setting creates a peaceful atmosphere. You can enjoy views of the surrounding area and Royal Park Ratchaphruek.
Many of the temples here feature curved wooden roofs. Wat Phra That Doi Kham is no exception. It shares characteristics with Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Both house sacred relics of Buddha.
Remember the legend of the white elephant. It chose this spot for a reason. Take in the views, the history, and the spiritual significance of this Golden Mountain.