Wat Phrachao Lan Thong, built in Lanna style has the unusual feature of having porches on either side of the viharn. In the ground is a golden chedi built on a square base with five levels tapering to the spire on top. In order to enter this temple you need to pass through a gate which gives the clue as to its origin. Two small cannon appear on each side of the gate. This once was a fortified enclosure and a base for the Lanna Army which in context with what else is in this district could predate the building of the city of Chiang Mai which with its moat was more easily defended.

Source: Site Visit