Wat Phra That Chae Haeng Phra Aram Luang @Nan | Nan

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Phra That Chae Haeng
Phra That Chae Haeng is the Buddha image for those born in the year of the Rabbit according to the beliefs of the Lanna people. It is an important religious site in Nan Province and is over 600 years old. It was originally a temple for the people and is now a royal temple. It is a pagoda containing the relics of the Lord Buddha. The shape of the pagoda is bell-shaped and decorated with lotus petals or leaf patterns, following the belief of paying homage to pagodas according to the zodiac year of the Lanna people. Those born in the year of the Rabbit or Rabbit should come to pay homage to Phra That Chae Haeng in Nan Province at least once.
History of Construction
• Founder: Built in 1353 (B.E. 1896) by Phaya Kan Mueang, the ruler of Pua (which was the center of Nan at that time).
• Origin of the Relic: Phaya Kan Mueang traveled to assist Phaya Lithai (Phra Maha Thammaracha Lithai), the King of Sukhothai, in constructing Wat Luang Aphai. Upon completion, Phaya Lithai presented him with the *Phra Maha Chinathat Chao* (a relic of the Lord Buddha—specifically a bone fragment from the left wrist), along with silver and gold votive tablets.
• Enshrinement: Phaya Kan Mueang brought the relic to be enshrined at Doi Phu Phiang Chae Haeng, a site chosen for its strategic and auspicious location.
Architectural Features
• The Stupa: A bell-shaped *chedi* (stupa) featuring a blend of Lanna and Burmese architectural styles. It stands approximately 55.5 meters tall, with a square base measuring 22.5 meters on each side.
• Distinctive Feature: The entire stupa is clad in brass sheets finished with lacquer and gold leaf, creating a brilliant golden appearance that is visible from afar.
Significance
• Zodiac Stupa: It is the designated stupa for those born in the Year of the Rabbit, according to Lanna belief.
• Traditional Festival: The "Worship of Phra That Chae Haeng" festival—also known as the *Hok Peng* (Sixth Lunar Month) Worship Festival—is held annually in March.
Paying Homage to Phra That Chae Haeng Sacred Objects Revered by the People of Nan Pay homage to Phra That Chae Haeng, a sacred object of Nan Province


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