Wat Mae Kuei

Wat Mae Kuei is located at No. 132, Village No. 9, Ban Mae Kuei, Pong Saen Thong Subdistrict, Mueang Lampang District, Lampang Province, 52100. It is a Buddhist temple of the Mahanikaya sect, covering an area of 6 rai and 13 square wah. The current abbot is Phra Khru Phuripanyawat Wipawo.

 

According to historical records provided by the abbot, Ban Mae Kuei is considered one of the oldest villages in the area. The presence of ancient brick ruins and a site known locally as "Den Lan" believed to be guarded by powerful spirits attests to its deep-rooted history. Locals hold that any acts of disrespect or desecration within this sacred area can bring misfortune, and in some cases, even death.

 

Further investigation into regional chronicles including the Yok Nok Annals, the Legend of Phra That Lampang Luang, and the Legend of Doi Tham—reveals that Ban Mae Kuei is regarded as the birthplace of a deity of integrity and a heroic warrior renowned for his bravery. His legacy extended across various cities, including Chiang Chuen, Chelieng (present-day Sukhothai), and Dong Nakhon.

 

This warrior figure, believed to have ruled Lakhon (the old name for Lampang) or Khelang Nakhon, is known by the title "Muen Dong Nakhon", also called "Chao Han Tae Thong" (The Brave Born in War). He was the son of Chao Muen Lok Nakhon and Chao Nang Sri Mueang, born amidst battle during an invasion aimed at Chiang Mai in 1400 BE (1943 CE).

 

During this period, the invading army reached Lampang. Chao Muen Lok Nakhon led his troops to confront the enemy at Wat Si Chaiphum (present-day Wat Pong Sanuk), with his consort joining him in the campaign. As they chased the enemy as far as the Mae Kuei area, Chao Nang Sri Mueang gave birth to a son near a mound close to the Mae Kuei River. A town was later established at that site and named Mueang Kuei.

 

The prince, later known as Muen Kuei Han Tae Thong, is said to have ruled and nurtured the city for 30 years. His legacy lives on in the name Ban Mae Kuei, and he remains a revered hero of Lampang whose story spans over 500 years though comprehensive academic study of his life is still lacking.

 

Even today, the area’s spiritual significance is deeply respected by the community. Although "Den Lan" has been developed with roads and infrastructure for residential purposes, the land remains unsold. Out of fear and reverence, few dare to buy or build there without proper rituals and offerings, as stories persist of ill fate befalling those who trespass uninvited.

 

The historical and spiritual legacy of Wat Mae Kuei and its surrounding village continues to shape local identity and reverence, making it an important cultural landmark in Lampang Province.