Colourful lanterns at the temple of Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, Lamphun, Thailand

Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, Lamphun, Thailand

Blending over a thousand years of history, art and devotion, Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, featured in today's image, offers a glimpse into the spiritual heart of northern Thailand. Its origins date back to 897, when the Hariphunchai king built a stupa to enshrine a strand of the Buddha's hair.

In 1443, the main stupa was significantly rebuilt by King Tilokaraja of the Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai, featuring incorporation of Buddha images on bronze sheets affixed to the bell element. Nearby is the Chedi Suwanna, a striking 46-metres-high pyramid-shaped stupa built in Dvaravati-style from the Haripunchai period, that complements the site's architectural ensemble. Surrounding halls feature woodwork showcasing generations of craftsmanship and a bronze gong—reportedly the largest in the world.