Wat Dab Pai

"Wat Dap Phai, also known as Wat Dab Pai, Wat Dab Phai, or Wat Dubphai, is a remarkable temple located near the northwest corner of Chiang Mai's moat. It is best known for its ornate features, including its bell tower, or *ho rakang*, which boasts an intricately designed roof. The temple's viharn, or main assembly hall, has a unique sweeping roof with a single split, giving it a low and unadorned appearance compared to other multi-tiered structures in the region. The entrance to the viharn is guarded by two naga, mythical serpents emerging from the mouths of makara (half-fish, half-crocodile creatures) that sit on each side of the steps. The naga are decorated with glittering green glass scales, adding to the vibrant look of the temple. Above the entrance, the gable is adorned with gold floral motifs on a blue background, with two felines near the apex, while the sides are decorated with green glass under gilt patterns. The main door of the viharn is highly ornate, featuring blue and green panels with gold decorations, and above it, an elaborate golden arch formed by two naga. Inside the viharn, the same blue-green decorative theme continues on the columns, and murals from the life of the Buddha cover the walls. The main altar houses a large Buddha image in the Mudra of Subduing Mara, accompanied by several other Buddha images, including two standing figures in Anjali Mudra (a gesture of prayer). The ubosot, the temple's ordination hall, was recently rebuilt and features a high base, with two long naga snaking down each balustrade. The gable end of the ubosot is decorated with gold floral motifs, and the columns are embossed with similar gold patterns. Inside, the ubosot houses the principal Buddha image in the Mudra of Subduing Mara, surrounded by smaller Buddha images, with murals depicting the Boddhi tree and animals such as squirrels and owls in the branches. The chedi, located in the temple complex, follows the Burmese style, painted in gold stucco and supported by a square base. Its finial is topped with a seven-layered gold *hti*, surrounded by small bells. One of the most eye-catching features of Wat Dap Phai is its bell tower (*ho rakang*), which stands out with its highly decorative roof. The tower consists of two levels: the lower level houses a large drum, and the upper level contains a bell that can be rung by pulling a rope. The roof of the tower is in a cruciform shape, with multiple overlapping tiers and a series of chofa and Naga figures adorning the eaves. The temple is open daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, and entry is free of charge. It offers a serene space to explore the rich architectural details and spiritual heritage of the Lanna Kingdom."

"I found this temple by mistake, but it was very cute. A little spiritual place where you can give a donation and buy the yellow flower as protection."