The 'Pobchok Dhamma Chedi' pagoda houses 12 smaller Buddha statues on its outer levels.
The Guanyin statue is so large that it contains a dedicated lift system and multiple internal levels for religious art.
The temple was founded and is currently managed by Phra Ajarn Phop Chok, a monk highly revered in Northern Thailand.
The name 'Wat Huay Pla Kang' translates loosely to 'Temple of the Fish Pond Stream'.
The architecture intentionally combines Thai Lanna roof styles with intricate Chinese-influenced structural details.
The site was originally a small, abandoned monastic site before being expanded into its current large-scale form.
Wat Huay Pla Kang is a multi-religious temple complex in Chiang Rai featuring a 90-meter-tall white statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. The site includes a nine-story, twelve-sided pagoda known as the 'Pobchok Dhamma Chedi', which blends Lanna and Chinese architectural styles. Visitors can take an elevator to the eyes of the Guanyin statue for panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The complex is situated on a hill, requiring significant walking to navigate the various levels and structures. A large dragon-flanked staircase leads to the main entrance of the pagoda. The temple serves both Buddhist and Chinese religious practices, drawing pilgrims seeking blessings for prosperity and health.
The base of the long staircase looking up toward the primary pagoda and the Guanyin statue.
Wear comfortable, slip-on footwear as you will frequently remove shoes to enter the pagoda and statue interior.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there is limited shade when walking between the massive statues and the parking area.
Hydrate well, as the incline of the temple hill can be physically demanding in the humid climate.
Attempting to climb the hill on foot from the main road instead of using provided transport options within the complex.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; remove shoes before entering any of the temple buildings.
