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Wat Phra That Doi Tung is situated on top of Doi
Tung Mountain, the highest mountain in Chiang Rai Province with an
elevation of approximately 2,000 meters, about 50 kilometers south of
Mae Sai town which is near the Myanmar border. The temple can be
reached via a 40-kilometer mountain road which meanders along the
mountainside. The journey is worthwhile as the panoramic views into
Laos and Myanmar at the peak are spectacular.
Wat Phra That Doi Tung was constructed in the
10th century and was renovated by Chiang Rai's most famous ruler King
Mengrai during the 13th century and by the famous Chiang Mai monk, Khru
Ba Siwichai, at the turn of the 20th century.
The temple complex is comprised of twin Lanna style chedis, one of
which is said to contain the left collarbone of the Lord Buddha.
Throughout the year, the holy relic draws devout Buddhists from all
over Thailand, Laos and Myanmar.
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