Wat Luang Nong Ngu (Wat Nong Ngu)

Rating: 3.7/5 (7 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00–17.00 (daytime visits recommended)

 

Wat Luang Nong Ngu (Wat Nong Ngu) is located in Moo 6, Ban Huai Ang, Mae Pong Subdistrict, Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai Province. It is an ancient temple site of significant archaeological and historical value in the Lanna region. Although it is no longer an active religious center with regular monastic activities, the site clearly reflects patterns of religious settlement in the past and plays an important role in expanding our understanding of the forest monastery (Aranyawasi) network in northern Thailand.

 

Archaeological surveys conducted in the Ban Huai Ang area indicate that the remains within Wat Luang Nong Ngu correspond closely with characteristics of Aranyawasi temples, which were forest monasteries typically established outside urban centers. These temples were primarily intended for meditation practice and the pursuit of spiritual seclusion. This context places Wat Luang Nong Ngu in close association with the Aranyawasi temple group at the foothills of Doi Suthep, including Wat Umong Therachan, Wat Phra That Saeng Chan, Wat Ruesi Chiwaka, Wat Phra Non, and Ku Phi Ba, all of which are key sites in Lanna Buddhist history.

 

The core archaeological significance of Wat Luang Nong Ngu lies in its artistic evidence, particularly the stucco relief patterns decorating the underside of a chedi’s wooden structure. These motifs display stylistic features and craftsmanship consistent with Lanna art associated with Aranyawasi monasteries. In addition, framed glass-panel patterns were identified, a decorative element commonly used on chedi structures during the same period. Such artistic features provide crucial evidence for dating the site.

 

Based on stylistic comparisons and spatial context, the archaeological remains at Wat Luang Nong Ngu are believed to date to the 21st Buddhist century. This period marked a phase of continuous development in Lanna Buddhism, during which forest monasteries expanded outward from urban religious centers. These findings confirm that Wat Luang Nong Ngu was not an isolated establishment but rather an integral part of a broader, interconnected religious landscape.

 

Today, although only remnants of the ancient structures remain, Wat Luang Nong Ngu retains a quiet, simple atmosphere imbued with a sense of historical depth. Surrounded by natural scenery and rural community life, the site offers visitors a markedly different experience from mainstream tourist temples, allowing close engagement with authentic archaeological remains and the spiritual landscape of the past.

 

Getting There Visitors can begin their journey from the Mae Pong Subdistrict Municipality Office and travel approximately 4 kilometers to Ban Huai Ang, Moo 6, Mae Pong Subdistrict, Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai Province. The route mainly follows local community roads and is accessible by car and motorcycle. Asking local residents for directions is recommended to reach the archaeological site with ease.

 

 

A: It is currently an archaeological site and does not host regular religious activities.

 

A: It is significant for archaeological and Lanna historical studies, particularly in understanding the Aranyawasi temple network.

 

A: The site is believed to date to the 21st Buddhist century based on artistic evidence.

 

A: Access is relatively easy, though asking local residents for directions is recommended.

 

A: The site is ideal for visitors interested in history, archaeology, and forest monasteries of the Lanna tradition.