Wat Phra Kaeo
Address:
57000 Chiang Rai, Thailand
Description:
Wat Phra Kaeo is the former home of the mysterious and revered Emerald Buddha, a beautiful jade and gold statue that is thought to have had its originas in India in 42BC. The statue was hidden for many years and only rediscovered when lightening struck the chedi at Wat Phra Kaeo after which, it became visible beneath the stucco. At the time it was thought to be made of Emerald, and hence the name. While the Emerald Buddha now resides at Wat Phra Kaeo in Bangkok, a replica can be seen in Chiang Rai. When the temple was built is questionable, but it is probably as old as the city itself and worth a visit.Map:
