Unseen Chiang Khong 5/13: The Faith of the Naga, Phra That Mae Ya Mon, Ban Pak Ing Chiang Khong

Unseen Chiang Khong 5/13: The Faith of the Naga, Phra That Mae Ya Mon, Ban Pak Ing Chiang Khong

Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province, is another district that mr.hotsia wants to invite everyone to discover from a less talked about perspective, yet full of charm and intriguing mystery. Especially the story of “The Faith of the Naga” at Phra That Mae Ya Mon in Ban Pak Ing, which was a deeply impressive destination from my latest trip.

Ban Pak Ing lies along the Mekong River on the Chiang Khong side, a community that still maintains a simple lifestyle blended with the traditional beliefs of the Lao and Shan people. The faith in the Naga here is not a small matter but a deeply rooted belief in the hearts of the people, expressed through festivals and sacred places like Phra That Mae Ya Mon, which stands prominently on a small hill overlooking the endless view of the Mekong River.

mr.hotsia drove from Chiang Rai city for about two hours, passing winding mountain roads and green rice fields of local farmers. The visit was at the end of the rainy season and beginning of winter, with cool and pleasant weather. The scenery on both sides made me feel the peace and abundance of this place.

Upon arriving at Phra That Mae Ya Mon, the first feeling was calmness and sacredness. I met locals who came to pay respects and participate in small rituals related to the Naga. The atmosphere was filled with the scent of incense and chanting. The stupa pillars were intricately carved with Naga patterns winding around the pagoda in exquisite detail, reflecting local beliefs and cultural art perfectly.

What makes this place interesting is not only Phra That Mae Ya Mon but also a small museum displaying stories about the Naga and local legends, including photos and daily life artifacts of the villagers. I also spoke with elders who said the Naga are like guardians protecting the community’s peace and have been respected and revered throughout.

Afterwards, I strolled around Ban Pak Ing, experiencing the simple lifestyle of the villagers. I found a community market with fresh local food, homegrown vegetables and fruits, and delicious local dishes such as sour curry, stir-fried noodles, and dishes made from Mekong River ingredients. mr.hotsia highly recommends not missing the crispy fried Mekong fish with its uniquely bold flavor.

If you visit Chiang Rai and want to experience a different side from the busy city, coming here feels like stepping back into the true nature and culture of Northern Thailand. And if you don’t have accommodation in Chiang Rai city yet, mr.hotsia recommends checking outAffordable and Good Hotels in Chiang Rai CityThat I have stayed at and was impressed with—conveniently located near the walking street and, importantly, very reasonably priced.

Chiang Khong also has many interesting attractions such as the bustling border market or even boat trips to see the lifestyle on both sides of the Mekong, which can be perfectly combined with visiting Phra That Mae Ya Mon. Visiting here is like opening a door to a world of faith and culture that remains fresh and vibrant.

For more travel ideas in Chiang Rai, don’t forget to check outWat Rong Khun, the White Temple of Chiang RaiFamous worldwide, or try driving to Doi ChangDrive to Doi ChangTo see coffee plantations and enjoy the fresh mountain atmosphere before returning to relax in the warm city atmosphere atStrolling in Chiang Rai CityWhere the weekend walking street is also quite lively and colorful.

Finally, mr.hotsia would like to share the video “Unseen Chiang Khong 5/13: The Faith of the Naga, Phra That Mae Ya Mon, Ban Pak Ing Chiang Khong” for everyone to watch, hoping it will give a clearer picture before your real trip.
Watch the video here