Admiring the exquisite blend of Burmese architecture and the culture of the Shan people at Wat Phra Non, one cannot help but be captivated. The temple features a unique two-tiered, three-gable roof design reminiscent of Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu. Inside, the highlight is the reclining Buddha statue, measuring an impressive 11 meters and 90 centimeters in length, alongside various seated and adorned Buddha statues, including Phra Bua Khem and Phra Siwali, as well as a statue of Goddess Kuan Yin. Additionally, the temple houses a collection of ancient artifacts, including the Tripitaka scriptures, antique crockery, and personal items from Japanese soldiers during World War II. At the back of the temple, two guardian lions stand watch, believed to have been placed by Chankalay and Princess Miah, the temple’s founders. Opposite the lions, two pagodas exhibit Burmese artistic style, with the first housing one Buddha statue and the second featuring four Burmese-style Buddha statues. Notably, in front of the second pagoda, there is a large, open-air meditating Buddha statue, adding to the temple's charm. Wat Phra Non is a must-visit site in Mae Hong Son for travelers seeking unique experiences. According to history, Wat Phra Non was established on Thursday, March 17, 1875, by Phraya Singh Thanracha (originally named Chankalay), the first governor of Mae Hong Son, during the reign of King Rama V. The temple was built for two main reasons: first, as a commemoration of his appointment as governor and his receipt of the title "Phraya Singh Thanracha," and second, to celebrate the elevation of Mae Hong Son from a village to a town. Additionally, as he was born on a Tuesday, it was intended to be a sacred site for the local people to honor. Unfortunately, due to ongoing conflicts near the border, the construction of the reclining Buddha was not completed before Phraya Singh passed away in 1884. Subsequently, his wife, Princess Miah, ascended as the second governor and oversaw the completion of the reclining Buddha, which measures 11 meters and 90 centimeters, and organized an elaborate inauguration while naming the temple Wat Phra Non. A captivating legend tells of an incident in 1934 when the old tin roof of the reclining Buddha’s hall fell into disrepair. One day, a young cowherd resting inside the hall dreamt that the reclining Buddha was attempting to escape the heavy rain. The child rushed back to the village to warn everyone that the Buddha might flee. When the villagers arrived, they were astonished to see that both feet of the reclining Buddha had indeed shifted, with the left foot overlapping the right foot slightly and becoming bent. As word spread, the faithful rushed to witness the phenomenon and generously contributed funds to replace the old tin roofing with new sheets. In 1938, during a large gathering for worship, many reported seeing tears streaming from the Buddha's eyes, resembling weeping, an occurrence that lasted over six months. Shortly after, World War II broke out, leading villagers to believe this was a divine warning against complacency. In 1943, following the war's onset, a group of thieves attempted to break into the statue to steal valuables hidden there by the first governor. Although the items were taken, the locals worked together to refill the statue with offerings and close it up as before. Remarkably, the evidence of the break-in remains today. Legends suggest that all the thieves faced dire consequences for their actions, whether true or false, adding to the mystique surrounding the revered statue and its standing in the hearts of the villagers.