Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan

Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan is a historic Buddhist royal temple in Nai Wiang, Mueang Nan, Nan town, northern Thailand. Founded in 1406 during the Nan Kingdom, it is renowned for its Sukhothai-influenced chedi supported by elephant sculptures, Lanna-style viharn, and revered Buddha images. Located near the Nan National Museum, it remains an active religious center and a key example of northern Thai temple architecture.

Visitors can expect a compact, active temple compound in central Nan with a large central viharn, a prominent elephant-supported chedi, gilded Buddha images, Lanna and Sukhothai architectural details, and quiet courtyards. The grounds are paved and walkable, with murals and historic artifacts inside the viharn. The setting is urban and close to other old-town attractions, suitable for sightseeing, photography and observing local Buddhist practices.

Founded in 1406 by Phraya Phu Khaeng, ruler of Nan, Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan served as a principal temple of the Nan Kingdom. Its main chedi reflects Sukhothai artistic influence, indicating cultural connections between Nan and Sukhothai in the 14th-15th centuries. Later restored and elevated to a Royal Temple of the Worawihan class, it preserves Lanna architecture and remains one of Nan's oldest and most historically important temples.

As a Royal Temple and active Buddhist center, it holds religious importance for local communities for merit-making, festivals and daily worship. It exemplifies northern Thai Lanna and Sukhothai temple art, particularly the elephant-supported chedi symbolizing strength and protection of Buddhism, and is a key cultural landmark in Nan's heritage old town.