Lost in time yet standing strong, Wat E-Kang whispers tales of Wiang Kum Kam’s past. This ruined temple offers a glimpse into 16th-century Lanna. It once thrived near modern Chiang Mai. Are you ready to discover its secrets?
Wat E-Kang is named after monkeys. Locals called them “khang” in the Northern Thai language. These monkeys roamed freely here before excavation began.
The Fine Arts Department started working on Wat E-Kang in 1985. They unearthed a chedi and a viharn. The chedi faces north. It stands behind the viharn.
Excavations in 2003 revealed traces of a wall to the west. More digging is planned. Imagine the stories still buried beneath the surface.
The bell-shaped chedi is the main feature. It sits on a lotus-shaped base. The base has torus molding. It is mostly intact. The viharn’s base remains too. Foundation stones mark where 16 pillars once stood.
Wat E-Kang prompted studies of ancient floods. A major flood likely occurred in the 17th century. It may have led to the site’s abandonment.
In May 2013, Wat E-Kang hosted a show. It was part of the 2nd Asia-Pacific Water Summit in Chiang Mai. Delegates from 40 countries attended. A dinner was organized with a view of Wat E-Kang.
Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra hosted the dinner. Deputy Prime Minister Plodprasop Suraswadi dressed as King Mangrai. He performed in a show about water management and flooding. Activists criticized the performance. They saw it as disrespectful. A building was constructed for the dinner. It was later removed in 2020.
Today, Wat E-Kang stands as one of the most impressive ruins. The chedi is well-preserved. Little remains of the viharn. It offers a quiet space. It allows reflection on Wiang Kum Kam’s rich history.
Close your eyes. Imagine the monks chanting. Envision the monkeys playing. Feel the weight of centuries. Wat E-Kang connects us to a forgotten era.