Wat Phra That Duang Diao,
Li District, Lamphun Province

Wat Phra That Duang Diao is a few of kilometres south of Li along Highway 106 on the left. The approach is through an arch carved with elephant figures which gives a clue as to its origin; the story of Queen Chamathewi’s royal elephant. It’s here that some of its remains were laid to rest. Inside the large compound, the covered perimetre wall is beautifully adored with mural paintings that tell a story of historical significance. Although the dates are unclear, the story goes back to the time of Queen Chamathewi and the Hariphunchai Kingdom. The royal elephant takes centre stage, the murals clearly showing that Li was an important frontier town at that time repelling invading armies from the south giving a fascinating glimpse of life during those times.