The image, one of Chiang Mai’s most venerated Buddha statues and traditionally believed to have the power to bring rain, was carried on a ceremonial palanquin through a grand Lanna-style procession, accompanied by Deputy Governor Siwa Thamikanon, provincial officials and large numbers of the faithful. It will remain temporarily enshrined at Wat Chedi Luang for the duration of the festival before being returned to Wat Chang Taem.
Phra Chao Fon Saen Ha leaves Wat Chang Taem only twice a year: during the Chiang Mai Songkran celebrations and for the Inthakin Festival. The festival centres on worship of the Inthakin, or city pillar, and is held annually to bring good fortune to residents and to bless the coming rains for farmers and agricultural communities.
This year’s festival runs from 13th to 19th May at Wat Chedi Luang, daily from 6am to midnight.
