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Wat Phra That Chom Cho is one of the Nine Sacred Phra That Chedis and serves as a spiritual landmark of Thoeng District. It is located in Village No. 20, Ban Wiang Chom Cho, Wiang Subdistrict, Thoeng District, approximately 1 kilometer west of the Thoeng District Office. The temple features a Lanna-style bell-shaped stupa, inspired by Sri Lankan architecture.
Phra That Chom Cho is a significant pilgrimage site in Chiang Rai’s Nine Phra That Chedis. According to local beliefs, worshiping Phra That Chom Cho brings success in communication. The word “Cho” (จ้อ) in Northern Thai (Lanna) dialect means eloquent or persuasive speech. It is believed that paying homage to this sacred site will lead to success in all endeavors, particularly in negotiations and conversations.
Additionally, in the Lanna dialect, the word “Chom Cho” (จอมจ้อ) can be interpreted as “rising high” or “prominent and majestic,” symbolizing greatness and elevation.
Phra That Chom Cho is a sacred and ancient stupa that has been revered in Thoeng District since ancient times. According to historical scriptures, compiled by scholars well-versed in Pali language from the former Muang Thoeng (Muang Theng), the origins of Phra That Chom Cho date back to the time when the Buddha visited Suvarnabhumi.
It is said that during his journey, the Buddha rested under an Ashoka tree on a hill near the Mae Ing River. A great Naga (serpent deity), upon learning of the Buddha’s arrival, approached him with great reverence, seeking teachings and wisdom. As an offering, the Naga presented three pieces of golden cloth (“Cho Kham”) and three pieces of precious gem-embroidered cloth (“Cho Kaew”) to the Buddha.
Venerable Ananda, the Buddha’s chief attendant, requested a sacred relic for the Naga. The Buddha then stroked his head and obtained a strand of his hair, which he bestowed upon the Naga. The Naga then informed the ruler of Muang Thoeng, who ordered the construction of a stupa on the hilltop to enshrine the Buddha’s hair relic. This sacred stupa later became known as Phra That Chom Cho.
Each year, on the full moon of the 8th Northern Thai lunar month, a grand relic water-pouring ceremony (Song Nam Phra That Chom Cho) is held, drawing pilgrims and worshippers to pay homage to this revered site.
