Lions, Wat Phra Taat Doi Jom Thong—Chiang Rai, Thailand
Posted by: 
Ianatlarge
N 19° 54.990 E 099° 49.380
47Q E 586137 N 2202451
Two lions standing (or rather sitting) guard at the entrance to a major Buddhist temple in northern Thailand.
Waymark Code: WMEKEA
Location: Thailand
Date Posted: 06/09/2012
Views: 6
This wat is located on a high point a little to the west of the centre of the important northern Thai city of Chiang Rai. According to the tourist plaque (in gallery), the temple predates the founding of the city by King Mengrai the Great in 1262. While the King is the legendary founder of the city, it is likely that a pre-existing community lived on this spot, it is a prime location.
The temple was created by King Ruan Kaew in 940. The temple was used to enshrine Buddhist relics from Sri Lanka. These relics are still housed in the temple stupa. In addition the temple performs the usual Buddhist functions. There is an ordination hall, quarters for monks, and various Buddhist artefacts in the grounds.
The temple is fairly attractive, with refurbished buildings well landscaped grounds. The wat also contains the City Pillar Shrine of Chiang Rai.
On the eastern approach to the temple is a set of steps leading up from the city. At the top of these steps, inside the temple grounds and facing into the temple, are these two lions. Each identical, maybe a metre high, gold in colour, and fairly ornate in design. Eyecatching.
Physical Address:
Vinichaikul Rd
Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Thailand
Web Site: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:
Take a photo of the lion.