The Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is one of the most highly revered temples in Thailand. According to legend the Buddha once visited the site some 2,500 years ago and donated a hair, which is now enshrined in the temple’s large chedi.
The temple was founded in the 13th century. Its name translates to “the temple of Lampang’s Great Buddha Relic”. The architecture is a mix of Lanna and Thai Lü styles.
The Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is a fortified temple or wiang; it was built on top of an earth mound and is surrounded by high brick walls. In the early 18th century when Lampang was occupied by the Burmese, the invaders occupied the temple. It was later freed by a group of 300 local people led by a man named Thippachak, whose statue can be seen on the temple grounds.
There is a small white building behind the stupa, called Haw Phra Phutthabaht where a natural camera obscura can be seen. Unfortunately, only man are allowed to enter. The image is projected (upside down) onto a white cloth and clearly depicts the colours of the structures outside.