Wat Tham Chiang Dao
Wat Tham Chiang Dao (วัดถ้ำเชียงดาว) is a limestone cave temple located in the foothills of the Doi Luang Chiang Dao, the third-highest mountain in Thailand, north of Chiang Mai. The exact origins of the temple are unknown, but it is believed to have been established during the Lanna Kingdom period. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings. The temple’s caves are central to its meditation practices, attracting both pilgrims and tourists.[1]
History
[edit]Many statues within the cave are believed to be of Burmese origin, likely dating back to the period of Burmese occupation in Lanna Kingdom. The Chiang Dao Cave comprises four caves, with Tham Phranon being the main cave, alongside Tham Maa, Tham Kaew, and Tham Naam. The elevated walkway leading to the cave was constructed in the 1930s.
The distinctive Chedi with 25 spires was built in 1913 by followers of the Shan hermit U Kanta. In 1934, followers of Kruba Srivichai built a viharn near the cave's entrance.[2]
Legend
[edit]According to legend, Prince Chao Luang Kham Daeng of Phayao disappeared in Tham Luang Chiang Dao while pursuing a girl who transformed into a golden deer and fled into the cavernous depths of the cave. The deer never reappeared, and the prince is said to have died and become a guardian spirit. The local people later built a shrine for him.[3]
References
[edit]- ^ "The best caves in Thailand to explore". Thaiger. 18 February 2022.
- ^ "มนตร์ขลังพระเจดีย์ 25 ยอด วัดถ้ำเชียงดาว..เชียงใหม่". www.thairath.co.th (in Thai). 13 November 2022.
- ^ "Tham Chiang Dao". Tourism Authority of Thailand.
