A relic of the Buddha rests within Wat Ket Karam’s Phra That Ket Julaa Manee pagoda. This impressive chedi is the heart of Wat Ket Karam a temple on the Ping River’s east side.
Wat Ket Karam also known as Wat Sa Ket boasts a history stretching back to 1428. King Samfangkaen of the Mangrai Dynasty oversaw its construction. It’s the most significant temple in the historic Wat Ket subdistrict. The area has a rich and intriguing past.
The pagoda’s Burmese design reflects its restoration under King Nawratha Minsaw. He was the son of Burmese King Bayinnaung. This explains the unique architectural influences. The viharn’s five-tiered roof is another striking feature. Old photographs beautifully capture its unique design. One photo even shows it alongside the Chansom Memorial Bridge in 1969.
A fascinating photograph in the Wat Ket Museum shows Wat Ket Karam in 1932. It depicts a prasat sop a structure used in cremations. Two novices stand nearby a car parked to the side. The photo’s caption reveals details about its origin and the owner of Ratana House.
The Wat Ket Museum itself has a captivating story. Chinese residents financed its construction. It once housed the teacher monk Chai Sri Wimon the temple’s abbot. The building has undergone several renovations. Jack Bain son of the Borneo Company’s last manager played a key role in establishing the museum. He worked closely with Khun Som Wang to curate its unique collection.
The museum holds a treasure trove of photographs utensils and textiles. Many items are from the Lanna region showing the area’s unique heritage. The museum sadly is undergoing major restoration work. Its future and the safety of its precious artifacts are uncertain. However the temple’s monks are working to preserve Wat Ket Karam’s rich history for future generations.