Wat Phra Kaew is a royal temple on Trairat Road in Chiang Rai. Its importance comes from the story of the Emerald Buddha's discovery, the old name Wat Pa Yia and the temple's continuing place in the city.
Chiang Rai municipality records that the site was formerly called Wat Pa Yia, named for the bamboo that grew there. Local history says a lightning strike exposed a green Buddha image inside the chedi; the image later became known as the Emerald Buddha and was taken to Chiang Mai after about 45 years in Chiang Rai.
The temple stands in the Wiang area of Chiang Rai, so it fits naturally with the city's other cultural stops. Treat the Emerald Buddha story as the temple's historical tradition and check current notices for worship areas, museum access and ceremonies.