Wat Phra That Haripunchai Woramahawihan

Wat Phra That Haripunchai Woramahawihan is an important religious site in the northern region of Thailand. It has been a sacred place in Lamphun for over a thousand years. Located in the heart of Lamphun city, it is about 150 meters from the provincial hall and is surrounded by four roads: Attharot Road to the north, Chaimongkol Road to the south, and the Ring Road to the east. Additionally, it is the sacred stupa for those born in the Year of the Rooster. The stupa contains a relic of the Buddha's hair, enshrined in a golden casket. The tradition of hanging lanterns in Lamphun is not clearly dated, but lanterns have been used since ancient times for decoration and lighting in homes and along pathways before the advent of electricity. The belief associated with offering lanterns is that it is done after the Buddhist Lent, close to the Yi Peng festival or the Loy Krathong festival in the northern region. The tradition of hanging lanterns in the north is to worship fire, a sacred element, with the belief that the light will guide and protect those who hang the lanterns. Visitors to Lamphun can participate in hanging lanterns at the Chamadevi Monument courtyard, Wat Phra That Haripunchai Woramahawihan, and pay respects to the sacred relics for blessings and good fortune for themselves and their families. The event usually takes place towards the end of the year.