Wat Ku Tao, Buddhist temple in Chang Phueak, Thailand
Wat Ku Tao is a Buddhist temple in Chang Phueak featuring a distinctive chedi made of five spheres stacked one above the other, resembling a collection of watermelons. The tower rises prominently from the temple grounds and is visible from many angles around the site.
The temple was established in 1613 and houses the remains of Nawrahta Minsaw, the first Burmese administrator of the Lan Na kingdom. This connection to early Lan Na history makes this site an important record of the region's past.
The temple serves as a venue for the annual Poy Sang Long ceremony, where boys aged 7 to 14 receive ordination as Buddhist novices. This gathering holds deep meaning for local families and remains a central event in the religious calendar of the community.
The site is open daily from sunrise to sunset and entry is free, making it accessible for spontaneous visits. Visitors should wear clothes that cover the knees and shoulders out of respect for the sacred space.
The pagoda design incorporates stylistic elements from Yunnan, reflecting the influence of Chinese merchants who traveled historic trade routes. This architectural blend is evident in the proportions and details of the main tower.
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