When in Thailand and especially Chiang Mai you can’t miss visiting the temples that are all around the city. I will show you the 5 temples you have to visit in Chiang Mai. Trust me when I say one is more mesmerizing than the other. In fact, it is almost impossible to walk 5 minutes in downtown Chiang Mai without passing by a temple. They are everywhere. But how to decide which ones are worth visiting especially when you don’t have unlimited time.
In this blogpost, I am focusing on the temples that are located in the center of the city and are very easy to reach. If you stay in the city center most of the temples are within walking distance.
Wat Sri Suphan
One of the most stunning temples you have to visit is the Silver Temple. This temple is just outside of the old town and is very unique in its appearance. Women are not allowed to enter the Silver Temple but trust me, it is still worth seeing the outside of the temple. Fun fact, the temple is lit beautifully at night and then shines purple-blue!
Opening hours: 06:00 am to 5:00 pm
More information about the temple and its history can be found here.
Wat Phantao
One feature that makes What Phantao stand out is that it is entirely built with teakwood. During the Loy Krathong festival, the temple is decorated with gorgeous colorful lanterns! This temple is located right next to What Chedi Luang. So if you have time make sure to stop by there as well!
Opening hours: 08:00 am to 5:00 pm
More information about the temple and its history can be found here.
Wat Phra Singh
This is the biggest temple in Chiang Mai and dates back to 1345, when Chiang Mai was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, now called Northern Chiang Mai. This temple is also home to the city’s most important Buddha image, the Lion Buddha. The temple is characterized by the classic Lanna architecture. Needless to say, this is one of the temples you need to visit in Chiang Mai.
Opening hours: 06:00 am to 5:00 pm
Find more information about Wat Phra Singh here.
Wat Rajamontean
Even though this temple is smaller than the others, it is absolutely gorgeous to look at. We loved this colorful temple and its beautiful entrance! Next to the temple is a large sitting Buddha statue that you can admire! The inside of the temple is also worth a visit.
Wat Lok Moli
Right across from Wat Rajamontean is Lok Moli, another temple you need to visit when in Chiang Mai. It was built in the mid 1300’s and it features a huge original chedi.
Honestly, it is really tough to visit all temples in Chiang as there are 300 of them! In my opinion, all temples are unique in their own way. I hope this blogpost helps you to narrow it down! My favorite of these 5 is Wat Phra Singh.
