Journey with me back to 1852. It marks the beginning of Wat Ton Kwen’s enchanting story. This temple stands as one of the finest examples of classic Lanna architecture in Northern Thailand. Locally, people also call it Wat Inthrawat.
Wat Ton Kwen’s origins are humble. It began as a resting place for a sacred relic. The Phra Borommathat Si Chom Thong was carried during the Hae Phra Chao Khao Wiang ceremony. This ceremony was an ancient Chiang Mai tradition.
King Kawilorot Suriyawong, the 6th ruler of Chiang Mai, oversaw its construction. The name “Ton Kwen” comes from the Ton Ba Kwen tree. Later, it was renamed after Kruba In. He was a skilled craftsman. Kruba In significantly contributed to building the viharn.
The viharn, or main hall, was completed in 1858. Inside, you will find a stucco Buddha image. It sits in the Maravijaya posture. Look closely at the wall behind the Buddha. Notice the arched niche with metal votive tablets.
An unusual structure stands here at Wat Ton Kwen. It is the sala chatummukh. This four-portico pavilion is unique in northern Thailand. It was built between 1856 and 1869.
The Hae Phra Chao Khao Wiang tradition involved the ruler of Chiang Mai. Each year, the townspeople would ritually bathe. They would worship the Phra Borommathat relic. This took place before it was enshrined at other temples. These were Wat Suan Dok and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Nowadays, the ceremony marks anniversaries of Chiang Mai’s founding. The most recent event was in 2016. It celebrated the city’s 720th anniversary.
Wat Ton Kwen is special for its well-preserved Lanna architecture. In 1989, the Association of Siamese Architects recognized its importance. They declared the viharn an outstanding conservation building. The Thai Fine Arts Department also cares for the temple. Renovations aim to keep the original structures intact.
The viharn showcases a Lanna style steep roof. It has three tiers and stylized Naga serpents. Carved wooden barge boards decorate each roof tier. The facade features richly decorated wooden panels. These gilded carvings show Lanna flower patterns.
The entrance to Wat Ton Kwen is guarded by Singha lions. Inside, the atmosphere is tranquil. The temple is set in a rural area with rice fields. It is also surrounded by tall sugar palms. Indeed, Wat Inthrawat means ‘Temple of Sugar Palms’.
Wat Ton Kwen stands as a testament to Lanna artistry. Its history and architecture offer a glimpse into Northern Thailand’s rich heritage. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty. Consider the generations who have walked these grounds. The temple stands as a reminder of traditions. It also recalls the enduring spirit of Chiang Mai.