Wat Luang Temple

Wat Luang is the oldest and most important temple in Chiang Khong, though after extensive renovation it now looks thoroughly modern. In fact it dates back over 500 years and was probably the first temple established here as the small riverside port grew. It stands in the middle of Sai Klang Road, the town’s only road of any significance, behind a grand arched entrance flanked by two enormous nagas.

Inside, the first structure you meet is the stupa, with statues of two walking Buddhas beside a short stairway leading up to a square base; above this sits a section with indented corners, topped by a colourful octagonal tier rising to the spire. As with most temples, the main entrance to the assembly hall faces east, which here means looking out over the river towards Laos. The large hall is very colourful after its renovation, and its external walls are covered with murals.