Wat Na Wai

Rating: 4/5 (5 votes)

Opening days: Daily

Opening hours: 08.00 - 17.00

 

Wat Na Wai It is a temple with a beautiful Lanna-era church. It is more than 200 years old. Inside the temple there is an old ancient scripture. There is a beautiful art and culture and ancient Buddha images. Wat Nahwai, one of the gems of Eastern Lanna art, is located in Bo Kaeo Subdistrict, Na Muen District, Nan Province. This temple is not only a spiritual center for the local community but also a historical site that deeply reflects the wisdom and cultural roots of the people in the region.

 

The temple’s viharn (assembly hall) stands out as a significant feature that clearly embodies the unique characteristics of Eastern Lanna art. The viharn is over 200 years old, built in 1793 (B.E. 2336) under the leadership of Phra Kruba Athit, a monk from Chiangkhong, along with laypeople led by Saen Kachana, the ruler of Hin City, and the royal craftsman Ariya from Ngua City, Hin City. The construction utilized local materials, including brick-and-mortar for the walls and wood for the roof framework, traditionally covered with wooden shingles following the ancient Lanna style.

 

The beauty of the viharn is evident in the intricately carved patterns on the gable and the pillar heads, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of that era especially the work of Ariya, who is believed to be one of the most renowned royal craftsmen in the Lanna region. The detailed carvings of floral motifs and auspicious mythical creatures reflect the beliefs, faith, and moral values deeply embedded in the way of life of the people.

 

Over the course of more than two centuries, Wat Nahwai has undergone three major restorations: in 1859 by Phra Kruba Jaiyatad (Chaiyatatt Bhikkhu), in 1921 by Chao Athikan Kanthawong and Pho Thao No Kaew of Ban Nayang, and most recently in 1989 by the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University. Each restoration was carried out with respect to the original design, preserving the architectural identity without alteration.

 

Inside the viharn is enshrined the principal Buddha image known as “Phra Chao Luang Selarattamuni,” the oldest in Na Muen District, created simultaneously with the viharn in 1793. This Buddha statue represents late Lanna art, combining dignity and serenity, serving as a spiritual anchor for the local people across many generations.

 

Moreover, the temple preserves many important antiques, such as palm-leaf manuscripts, embossed manuscripts, Buddhist scripture chests, and ancient wooden Buddha statues all of which hold significant artistic and historical value. These artifacts represent the cultural heritage that reflects the prosperity of Buddhism and education in the local community in the past.

 

Therefore, Wat Nahwai is more than just a community temple; it is a living testament to the civilization of Eastern Lanna. It breathes through time, allowing visitors to experience the essence of the past through its beautiful architecture and valuable antiques. It also serves as an important learning center for younger generations to understand their cultural roots.