Wat Phra Singh Worawihan

Wat Phra Singh Worawihan : A Journey Through the Spiritual Significance of Thai Buddhism

Discovering the Beauty and Significance of Wat Phra Singh Worawihan

Wat Phra Singh Worawihan is a significant temple located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is renowned for its beautiful Lanna-style architecture and for housing the sacred Buddha image of Phra Singh (Phra Phuttha Sihing), which is considered a crucial religious artifact for both Chiang Mai and the Lanna community. Phra Singh temple is a source of immense reverence for the people of Chiang Mai, who visit regularly to pay homage and worship. During major festivals such as Songkran or New Year's Eve, the government organizes a parade in which the Buddha Sihing is taken around the city on a Busabok. According to Lanna tradition, people born in the Year of the Dragon are expected to visit this temple at least once in their lifetime.

The Main Hall of Wat Phra Singh is a rectangular building with porches on the front and back. The building's exterior and interior decorations embody true Lanna art, with intricate stucco patterns, gilded lacquer sculptures, and large slat windows. The entrance arch of the Main Hall is particularly noteworthy, with its two arcs that resemble arched eyebrows and two circular windows that resemble eyes.

The Hor Trai building, which was built as a half-timbered structure, is another fascinating feature of Wat Phra Singh. The outer walls are adorned with stucco gods in the form of Thep Phanom Yuen and other mythical creatures. The interior of Hor Trai is decorated with Himmapan creatures such as a winged mermaid, lion, kirin, and other guard patterns that resemble those of the Meng dynasty in China. The building was renovated in 1933 by Chao Kaew Nawarat and is considered a masterpiece of the Phra Muang Kaew period.

The Wihan Lai Kham is a beautiful building that showcases the advanced craftsmanship of the era in which it was built. The building was constructed in the northern style and features two Naga statues on the front steps and two lion statues near the Nagas. The interior of the Wihan Lai Kham houses the Phra Phuttha Sihing Buddha image and is adorned with intricate stucco patterns, gold patterns on red backgrounds, and a castle surrounded by dragons and swans. The northern wall of the viharn features paintings of the golden conch and the story of Suwannahong, including the unique Sangthong tale, which can only be found here.

As a tour agency in Chiang Mai, we highly recommend a visit to Wat Phra Singh Worawihan to experience the rich history and culture of the Lanna kingdom. Our knowledgeable guides will provide a private tour to Phra Singh temple, offering in-depth insights into its history and the significance of its artifacts. By visiting this temple, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the past Lanna culture and enjoy a truly unique and enriching travel experience.