The Wat Klang Wiang is one of the most ornate temples in Chiang Rai. Every structure in the temple complex is richly decorated. Although the temple is much older and probably dates back to at least the 15th century, most structures were built during the 20th century. In 1903 a violent storm severely damaged much of the temple, after which many of its structures were rebuilt. On the templeââ¬â¢s courtyard is a very elegant white chedi set on a square platform. The chedi consists of three levels, each one narrower than the one below it, containing niches where Buddha images are enshrined. The top of the chedi consists of a golden spiral. White sculpted elephant statues placed on the platform surround the pagoda. As the Wat Klang Wiang temple is located at the exact center of Chiang Rai it contains the city pillar. The pillar is kept in a specially constructed shrine. The very ornate red and gold shrine contains several Naga snakes. Armed guardian figures on each side of the shrine protect the city pillar. The temple is located on the intersection of Uttarakit road and Rattanakhet road in the center of Chiang Rai. It is found about 500 meters South East of the Wat Phra Kaew and 200 meters from the Wat Phra Singh. From within the town center you can get there by tuk-tuk or samlor (a three wheeled rickshaw) or drive there yourself on a rented bicycle.
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