Wat Chamthewi Temple (Wat Ku Kut)

📍 Location of Wat Chamthewi Temple (Wat Ku Kut) 🚘 Directions to Wat Chamthewi Temple (Wat Ku Kut)

About Wat Chamthewi Temple (Wat Ku Kut)

Wat Ku Kut, located in Lamphun, is a fascinating historical site that is well-preserved and holds significant importance to the Thai nation. It is often visited after spending time at the Wat Phra That Haripunchai, another notable site in Lamphun. The temple is particularly busy during the Loy Krathong festival, when it is adorned with paper lanterns and visited by many locals. It is recommended to read up on the history of this ancient temple before visiting to fully appreciate its significance.

The temple grounds are home to the remaining relics of Queen Chamdhevi, the first ruler of Nakorn Hariphunchai, which prospered over 1300 years ago. A teakwood shrine in her memory is also present on the site, where visitors can pay respects to her great and sacred spirit.

The temple is an exquisite example of Haripunjaya architecture and is well worth the trip from Chiang Mai. Despite some damage to several of the Buddha’s located in the niches, the site is well preserved and holds a certain magical aura. It is recommended to take a break from the bustling city of Chiang Mai and visit this site along with Wat Phra That Haripunjaya.

The temple is also a popular destination for educational tours. One such tour is arranged by the Center for Lifelong Learning of Payap University, led by Dr. Ratanaporn, a professor of history. The temple is home to a chedi dating back to the 8th century, along with others from the 12th century. Standing Buddhas are present in every tall niche of the oldest chedi, which is said to house Queen Chamadhevi’s ashes. The temple also features murals depicting the life of the Queen, adding to the historical richness of the site.

The temple is dedicated to Chamathewi, the Mon princess from Lawo, who founded Haripunchai, now called Lamphun, in the late 9th century. Its most notable feature is the pair of old brick chedis first built in the early 12th century. Despite collapsing in an earthquake, they were rebuilt in 1218 and are in good condition today. These two chedis are rare and outstanding examples of ancient Mon architecture in Thailand.

The temple is located near Wat Phra That Hariphunchai and is a historical place of Queen Chamdhevi. It is also known as Kukut and is a fantastic site to visit. Lamphun is easily accessible from Chiang Mai, with trains and minibuses available for the journey. The town is small and quiet, making it a perfect day trip from Chiang Mai. Despite its size, Lamphun is home to several historical sites, including the covered bridge on the river side of Wat Phra That Hariphunchai and the museum, which, although small, is worth a visit. However, it is recommended to stay in Chiang Mai and visit Lamphun as a day trip to fully enjoy the historical richness of the area.