Temple

Wat Bam Lao Phra Chao Ta Khiao

Pa Sang

For spiritual travelers and sacred-site enthusiasts, a visit to Wat Ban Lao Phra Chao Ta Khiao one of the oldest temples in the Pa Chang area is not to be missed. This ancient temple has stood as a spiritual cornerstone of the community for over a thousand years. Inside the vihara enshrines the revered Phra Phutthapattima with Green Eyes, an ancient black-toned Buddha image of exceptional beauty. The statue, seated in the cross-legged posture, is crafted from stucco covered in gold leaf and is believed to date back to the era of Queen Chamadevi, the legendary first ruler of Hariphunchai. The interior of the ordination hall is spacious and beautifully adorned, reflecting the artistry and devotion carried through centuries. This sacred site remains a cherished symbol of heritage, faith, and local identity in Lamphun.

During the Buddha’s time, when the Blessed One journeyed through the Lawa lands around Doi Chom Thong–Doi Noi, He foretold that this very region would one day flourish as Hariphunchai Kingdom. Later, Mengkhabut, a Lawa native, together with many villagers, listened to His teachings and developed deep faith. At that moment, Indra requested a sacred relic to be enshrined there. The Buddha, with great compassion, bestowed a strand of His hair. An underground chamber was constructed to enshrine the Hair Relic, along with magnificent offerings, and it was sealed firmly so firmly that even the Nagas came to help reinforce the closure. Centuries later, during the reign of Queen Chamadevi, the first ruler of Hariphunchai, Her Majesty and her two sons King Mahantayot and King Anantayot proceeded to the sacred cave to respectfully retrieve the relic. They prepared exquisite offerings and resolved to build a great Buddha image above the chamber containing the relic, so that devotees could pay homage for generations to come.Construction of the monumental image began, but when the artisans reached the sculpting of the Buddha’s face, disagreements arose regarding its appearance. Seeing this, Indra descended in the guise of a white-robed ascetic to complete the face with perfect beauty. He then placed two divine emerald-green jewels as the Buddha’s eyes. Upon completion, the people called the image “Phra Chao Ta Khiao” or “The Buddha Image with Emerald Eyes.” The construction was finished in 1235 BE, followed by a grand celebration. Over time, the site grew into a flourishing temple known today as Wat Phra Chao Ta Khiao, a spiritual center deeply revered by the local community.

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