This temple is located by the Ruk River on a small hill known as Doi Chiang Mieng. Due to its ancient history, the temple has been registered as an important archaeological site in Chiang Rai province. Visitors can admire the vihara that is over a thousand years old, housing several Buddha statues, including the newly created Phra Chao Chiang Saen, which was made after the original Chiang Saen Buddha statue that has stood here for centuries. The old statue can now only be seen partially outside the vihara, where visitors can still pay their respects. Atop Doi Chiang Mieng lies the remains of the Doi Pu Khao pagoda, which is now nothing more than ruins. This hill also offers stunning views of the Golden Triangle, the border area where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. According to legend, the pagoda was built in 1302 during the reign of King Lao Kao Kiew of the city of Ma, the second king of Wiang Hiran Nakhon Ngai. In his youth, two giant crabs invaded the agricultural fields of the people. His father, King Rawajakara, the first ruler of the Mengrai dynasty, entrusted him with the task of putting an end to the crabs. Ultimately, he managed to catch one, while the other escaped into the mountains. When he ascended to the throne, he constructed the pagoda to seal off the crab’s escape route, hence it became known as Phra That Pu Khao. Moreover, another legend states that during the time of the Buddha’s earthly existence, he visited this area and foretold a future where it would be called Doi Pu Khao, promising prosperity ahead. For further inquiries, please call 0 5378 4224 or 08 1706 0311.