Naga named as national symbol

A naga adorns a staircase leading to the main chapel of Wat Rong Sua Ten in Chiang Rai. The mythical creature has been designated as one of Thailand's national symbols. Wichan Charoenkiatpakul

The naga, a mythical snake, has been designated as one of Thailand's national symbols, government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek said on Tuesday.

The creature has long influenced Thai society and traditions, even though it originated in India. The story of the mythical serpent king has been told in various cultural forms in Thailand, from architecture to festivals.