Wat Nantaram

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About Wat Nantaram

The unique teak Shan-style local temple in Chiang Kham is a must-visit destination for anyone passing through or staying in the area. The temple's architecture is a departure from the usual Thai style, as it is designed in the Shan style and entirely built of dark, weathered teak. This gives the temple a distinctive and captivating appearance that sets it apart from other temples in the region.

Visitors can spend a relaxed and enjoyable hour exploring the many nooks and crannies of the temple. Many of the Buddhas housed within the temple are Shan rather than Thai, adding another layer of interest to the experience. The temple is considered by many to be the most beautiful in Chiang Kham, and indeed, one of the most beautiful in all of Thailand.

The temple's architecture is unique, with a Burmese style that is well-maintained and features a museum of curiosities and historical photographs of the local people and ceremonies. This provides visitors with a fascinating insight into the local culture and history.

Visitors can also enjoy dressing up in Lau outfits, which can be rented from a nearby shop, and taking pictures around the temple. This adds a fun and interactive element to the visit. The temple also offers free guided tours, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the temple and its significance.

The temple, known as Wat Nantaram, is a beautiful Shan-style temple located in the central Chiang Kham district of Phayao Province. The construction of the temple remains a mystery, adding to its allure. The temple's architecture features a classic Tai Tai – Shan – (from Myanmar) style roof and is entirely constructed using teak. This makes it an unexplored and unseen wonder of Chiang Kham, Phayao, Thailand.

Chiang Kham is a bit off the beaten track, making it one of the increasingly rare places in Thailand that still retains its authentic charm. Wat Nantaram is a fine example of the old Teak Temples, which were once very common but have now become less so due to the cost of upkeep. The grounds of the temple are beautifully maintained, and the main building houses a wide variety of artefacts. It is generally possible to organize a blessing from one of the monks.

The temple is made from golden teak wood, the best quality and most expensive wood in Thailand, and was built in the Burmese architectural style. It is a very beautiful temple, just a 15-minute walk from the Chiang Kham bus station or a 10-minute walk from the town centre. The east gate of the temple provides access to Tesco Lotus. Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the beauty of the temple and its surroundings.