It was at Chiang Rai that the famous Emerald Buddha (now in Wat Phra Kaeo in the Grand Palace in Bangkok) first came to light, having remained hidden away for many years in Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao. In 1434 lightning struck a chedi in the wat, investigation of which uncovered a small, rather undistinguished stucco figure. Concealed beneath the plaster was the 75 cm (30 in) green jade or nephrite Buddha. The discovery quickly drew the attention of the king of Lan Na, who resolved that the Emerald Buddha should grace his capital Chiang Mai. But on the way there, at a fork in the road, the elephant carrying it refused to continue towards
Chiang Mai, turning aside instead for neighboring Lampang. The king interpreted this as a sign and, until 1468, the Buddha remained, albeit temporarily, in Wat Phra That Lampang Luang. Eventually it was taken to Chiang Mai from where, after long and circuitous travels, it found its way to Bangkok.
Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao is of interest for its carvings and painted wooden façade. The wat dates back to the 15th c., as does nearby Wat Phra Singh. Both have been restored a number of times, thus altering their appearance.
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