Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanuson

Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanuson, located in Chae Hom District, Lampang Province, is a temple that has gained widespread attention from both Thai and international tourists. Its most striking feature is the small white chedis scattered across the mountaintop, seemingly floating amidst the sky and surrounded by the lush greenery of the Doi Phra Bat mountain range. These chedis create a surreal and breathtaking sight, embodying the power of human faith that has transformed a steep and remote mountaintop into a sacred sanctuary of profound beauty.

 

Originally, the area was home to Wat Phra Phutthabat Pu Pha Daeng, known for the sacred Buddha footprint enshrined on the summit. Local residents have revered the site for generations. Due to the rugged terrain and lack of road access, pilgrims had to hike through dense forest and steep cliffs to pay their respects. Phra Thep Wisutthiyan (Luang Pho Paiboon Sumangkalo), abbot of Analayo Thipphayaram Temple in Phayao Province, also made the pilgrimage on foot. His deep faith inspired the creation of a temple on the mountain peak.

 

In 2004, marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of King Rama IV, the Sangha Council resolved to establish a new temple in his honor, naming it “Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanuson” as a memorial to his great contributions to the Thai people.

 

At the lower part of the temple complex lies the ordination hall (ubosot) and a chedi. Inside the hall sits a replica of Phra Nirantarai, the personal Buddha image of King Rama IV. The ubosot is designed in the Lanna architectural style, featuring a two-tiered roof and guardian lion statues flanking the entrance a clear reflection of the grace and elegance characteristic of Northern Thai temple architecture.

 

To reach the mountaintop where the white chedis are located, visitors must take a local shuttle service from the parking area below. The drive takes about 30 minutes along narrow, steep roads. From there, it’s a hike of approximately 1 kilometer — or around 300 steps — which takes about 30 minutes on foot. Visitors are advised to bring drinking water. The shuttle service begins at 7:00 a.m., and private vehicles are not permitted on the mountain road.

 

At the summit, the area is divided into two main sections. On the right is the path leading up to the golden stupa, accessed via a steep staircase. From this vantage point, one can enjoy panoramic views of Chae Hom District and the temple grounds below. On the other side lies a prayer pavilion, which does not house resident monks but is used for chanting ceremonies on the eighth waning day of each lunar month. This pavilion also serves as a scenic viewpoint, offering vistas of the white chedis lined along the ridge. Looking out, one sees the valley of Chae Hom spread before them, while behind is the cliffside array of white chedis a scene seemingly drawn from the imagination.

 

Perhaps the most awe-inspiring feature is the group of five white chedis perched precariously along a cliff’s edge. Even from afar, one can sense the difficulty involved in constructing them. Climbing to this location requires significant effort, yet skilled craftsmen managed to erect these chedis with remarkable precision and elegance. Their creation is a testament to human devotion and perseverance — turning the impossible into reality through unwavering faith.

 

For those wishing to visit, take Highway 1035 from Lampang City to Chae Hom District. About one kilometer past the town center, look for a left turn at a bend in the road marked by an entrance gate labeled “Ban Mai Lao Yao.” After turning, proceed another 200 meters and take another left at the sign pointing toward Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanuson. From there, a well-paved concrete road winds for about 5 kilometers, during which the mountaintop and its iconic white chedis become a striking backdrop on the horizon.

 

Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanuson is more than just a tourist destination it stands as a monument to faith and the human spirit. It beautifully embodies the profound relationship between art, belief, and nature, offering an experience beyond words. It is a place that one should visit at least once in a lifetime to feel the serenity and power of true devotion.