This is an undiscovered gem of Thailand that you shouldn't miss. The Chaloem Phrakiat Phra Chom Klao Rachanuson Temple, also known as Wat Phrabat Pu Pha Daeng, is located in the Chae Hom district of Lampang province, about a 10-hour drive (682 kilometers) from Bangkok. The temple sits atop a hill called Doi Pu Yak by locals, within the Doi Phra Bat hunting-free zone. A Buddha footprint and a pagoda on the hill give the temple a distinctive appearance and attract numerous tourists.

In the lower temple area, before ascending the hill, is Wat Chaloem Phrakiat Phra Mongkut's Rachanuson, featuring an ordination hall and a chedi. The chapel, designed to resemble the eternal Buddha, houses a Buddha statue believed to be that of King Rama IV. The ordination hall is similar to a Lanna temple, with a two-tiered roof.

Until the Sangha decided in 2004 to build Wat Chaloem Phrakiat Phra Chom Klao Rajachanusorn to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of King Mongkut, Rama IV.

Tung Thong Village, Village No. 7, Chae Hom Muang Nuea Road, Wichet Nakhon Subdistrict, Chae Hom District, Lampang Province

Coordinates: https://goo.gl/maps/vY46iBnkbYHptAW16

Viewing times: 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.