Wat Phra Yeun

Wat Phra Yeun is located at Ban Phra Yeun, Tambon Vieng Yong, Amphoe Mueng, Lamphun. It was constructed in 670 A.D. during the reign of Queen Chammathevi of Hariphunchai. The name of the temple is originated from the temple’s Buddha images in the attitude of standing or ‘Phra Yeun’ in Thai. The legend has it that the first Buddha image of the temple is carved in 1063 during the reign of Phra Chao Athittayaraj, the 32nd king of Hariphunchai. Later in 1369, Phra Chao Kue Na, the ruler of Nakornping Chiang Mai and Lamphun, has more 3 standing Buddha images carved. The vihara in which those Buddha images stand becomes worn out through time. It was not until 1904 that Chao Luang IndhaYongYot, the ruler of Lamphun, had the vihara renovated. He also had more small standing Buddha images carved in order to decorate the four sides of the newly built pagoda.The new pagoda was constructed in the Burmese architecture style. The pagoda descends in levels. There is a staircase leading to the terrace which is surrounded by a low wall. Four small pagodas are situated at each corner of the big pagoda. The top of the pagoda is decorated with small pagodas in Lanna architectural style called “Chedi Ha Yod.” The small pagodas are in bell and round shapes. The body of the big pagoda is rectangular-like on which small shelves housing standing Buddha images are carved.Although the pagoda is only around 100 years old, its architecture is really unique. Plus, the golden standing Buddha image, housed in the front of the pagoda, makes the temple a popular destination among tourists.Visitors can go to the temple via Highway No. 114, cross Kuang River, turn left into Highway No. 1029, and go further for about 500 meters until you reach the temple.Wat Phra Yeun opens every day from 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. The admission is free. For more information, please contact +66 5353 0135.