The ancient and beautiful temple, which has a history spanning thousands of years, was once the residence of the Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaew Morakot) from 1979 for a remarkable 32 years. The name "Wat Phra Kaew Don Tao" comes from a legend that tells how the Abbot of this temple discovered the emerald in a watermelon (also known as "maktao" in Northern Thai) and carved it into a Buddha statue, which was later enshrined at Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, where it remains to this day. Visitors can admire the magnificent Phra Borom That Don Tao stupa, which houses relics of the Buddha's hair, and the ancient Vihara that enshrines the reclining Buddha, which shares the temple’s long history. The main hall features the Buddha in the Mara Vijaya posture, while the Phra Chao Thong Thip shrine, created by Queen Chamthewi over 1,000 years ago, houses the Phra Chao Thong Thip crafted in the art style of the Chiang Saen period. Moreover, you can explore the Mandapa or Phaya That, influenced by Burmese architecture, and the beautifully detailed Suhadha Vihara, showcasing exquisite gold murals drawn by Chiang Saen artisans, home to a Chiang Saen Buddha statue. Lastly, the Lanna Museum serves as a treasure trove of Lanna artistic artifacts, including ceramics, tiles, and additional Buddha statues.