Wat Luang
วัดหลวง
The oldest temple in Phrae’s old town, with a Chiang Saen-style chedi decorated with elephants and well-preserved Lanna halls. The temple museum has a rich collection.
Wat Luang is said to have been founded at around the same time as the city of Phrae, roughly a thousand years ago, making it the oldest temple in town. Its main chedi, Phra That Chom Kham, is in Chiang Saen style, with elephant statues around its base. The shrine hall facing the old city gate retains Lanna timber construction and finely decorated lintels. The temple’s folk museum displays ancient Buddha images, weapons, woodcarvings, manuscripts, and old photographs of Phrae, and the collection is substantial. The temple sits right beside the western gate of the city wall, with Wat Phra Non and Wat Phongsunan nearby, so it is easy to explore on foot. Admission is free.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:00–18:00 (museum approx. 09:00–16:00)
Nearby sights
- Vongburi House
- Wat Phra Non
- Khum Chao Luang
- Phrae Old City Wall & Moat
- Ban Prathap Chai
- Wat Sa Bo Kaeo
- Seri Thai Museum
- Wat Chom Sawan