Wat Phra That Chom Tong is an important temple housing the “Phra That Chomtong” chedi. Although there is no direct evidence available as to when this temple was erected, it has reputedly been revered by the residents of Phayao since ancient times.
According to legend, Phra Buddha Kosacharn brought relics from Sri Lanka to Phra That Chom Kitti in Chiang Saen. King Mangkarat, ruler of Yonokburi Sri Chiang Saen, had those relics divided; some to Phraya Ruan Kaeo, the ruler of Chai Narai. These releic were then enshrined in a chedi on the hill above Phayao, which was then named Phra That Chom Tong.
Wat Phra That Chom Tong chedi is classic Lanna design, albeit with a unique base with 4 indented corners on each corner of the base.
The temple also houses a a stone Buddha image named “Phra Chao Thanchai.”
