Wat Thatkam

Have you laid eyes upon a Buddha crafted from pure silver? At Wat Thatkam in Chiang Mai, such a marvel awaits. Wat Thatkam translates to “Temple of the Golden Raft”. But its true treasure lies within: the ancient “Silver Buddha,” known as Pra Choa Ngern Larn. This exquisite statue resides in a dedicated chamber, accessible by a stairway guarded by mythical creatures. Chinthe lions, makaras (sea serpents), and kneeling Devata figures watch over the steps. Nearby mondop towers offer information about Wat Thatkam and the revered Buddha within. The building itself boasts a two-tiered roof, adorned with stylized nagas. Inside the chamber, several glass cases display other silver Buddha images. Yet, the Pra Choa Ngern Larn holds the center stage. Seated in the Dhyanna mudra, the basic meditation posture, this Sukhothai-style Buddha radiates a dark silver luminescence. Two red gems or crystals adorn its chest and forehead, enhancing its mystical aura. Beyond the silver Buddha, Wat Thatkam holds other architectural gems. The viharn, a richly decorated hall, showcases a triple-split multi-tiered roof. Nagas embellish the bargeboards, while chofa finials crown the apexes. The gable end is a masterpiece of gilt foliate scroll carvings against a vibrant blue mosaic. The viharn’s interior is a riot of color, thanks to the murals depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life. The principal Buddha image, in the Chiang Saen style, sits on a high dais in the Subduing Mara mudra. Smaller Buddha images surround it, and a mondop tower, devoid of an image, stands to the left of the altar. Outside, the chedi stands tall, a testament to the Northern Thai Lanna style. Its high base and indented corners give way to an octagonal mid-section. This rises like a layered pyramid to support the bell and the impressive hti, a Burmese-style gilded umbrella finial. Gilded chattras and ornamental mondops dot the fenced ambulatory around the chedi. The ubosot, another striking building within Wat Thatkam, also displays intricate ornamentation. Makkaras disgorging bird-like creatures adorn the roof edges. Inside the porch, glittering green and blue glass pieces form elaborate mouldings. Carved Devata figures in gilt stand against a red background on the doors, flanked by curious carvings of vases overflowing with flowers. The facade is a tapestry of intricate carvings: foliate work, zodiac animals, and Devas, all set against a shimmering blue backdrop. Wat Thatkam’s beauty extends even to its ho rakang, the bell tower. Situated above the porch of a large building with unique elephant chofas, the ho rakang is richly decorated. Nagas with elephant trunks stand guard at the corners, and the bell, suspended from the ceiling, awaits the pull of a rope to release its resonant sound.