“Temple of the White Reliquary?” Ever heard of it? That is Wat That Khao. This ruined temple sits in the Wiang Kum Kam archaeological site. It is south of Chiang Mai.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine the 16th or 17th century. Scholars believe Wat That Khao was built then. Its chedi was likely covered in lime plaster. This plaster gave the temple its name. Khao means white in Thai.
Wat That Khao faces northeast. Its location was chosen with care. The temple’s layout reveals its history.
Excavations began here in 1985. A vihara was uncovered. It stood in front of the chedi. At the rear, they found an altar. A wall once stood there too. South of the vihara, a building emerged. Perhaps it was a rites pavilion. Behind it, brick Buddha images were found. They were coated in lime.
The archaeologists discovered writings. These writings used the Fak Kham script. This script dates back to the 16th century. They also found Haripunchai-style Buddha amulets. These amulets are from the 15th century. It’s believed they were brought here later. These finds offer clues about Wat That Khao’s past.
Suddenly, the work stopped. A land ownership dispute arose. Restoration was completed in 1986. The structures were stabilized. But the full story of Wat That Khao remains.
Consider the chedi’s former glory. Imagine the vihara filled with monks. Picture the rites pavilion in use. The Fak Kham script tells forgotten tales. The Haripunchai amulets hint at connections.
Wat That Khao might seem like just ruins today. But it echoes with history. It speaks of faith and artistry. It whispers secrets of Wiang Kum Kam. Each brick holds a story. Every stone has a memory.
As you leave Wat That Khao, remember its name. Think of the white reliquary. Reflect on its hidden history. Imagine its vibrant past.