t is the oldest temple in Phrae. The current buildings of Wat Luang are not original. According to a legend, the temple was founded in 829 by the monk Phor Khun Luang Pol at the same time Lampang was founded. The oldest existing structure is the octagonal chedi, known as Phra That Luang Chai Chang Kham supported by elephant statues. It has been rebuilt in 1336 on the foundations of an existing form and recently renovated.
The viharn-ubosot dates from 1872. It contains a Buddha image called Phra Chao Saen Luang Buddha which is the bronze replica of the original golden statue looted in 1902 during the uprising of the Shan. This is probably after this event that the Luang Prabang style front portico was bricked over with laterite.
The temple also hosts a small museum with artifacts and weapons dating from the Lanna period. It is open on weekends only but if you ask nicely,the monks may be willing to open it especially for you.