Are you wondering which Chiang Mai temples to visit? I get it, it can be hard to choose, as there are over 200 of them.
Chiang Mai is a gorgeous part of Thailand and the temples are all uniquely beautiful; so much so that they’re one of the top reasons people visit the city.
We love Chiang Mai. It’s one of our favorite places in the country. We’ve visited many times and during our last visit, we spent around 2 weeks exploring all the best sites in the city.
Let’s take a look at the best temples in Chiang Mai, so you can start planning your trip without having to worry about what temples you should or shouldn’t visit!
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This post was written by guest author Abigail from “I’m Going on an Adventure” who has extensive experience with travel in Thailand and Chiang Mai.
Article overview
Chiang Mai temple overview
Chiang Mai is definitely one of the best places to see temples in Thailand. It’s up there with the temples of Ayutthaya and Bangkok.
Many are centered around the old city, while some are set higher up in the mountains and take some hiking to get to.
Here’s an overview of my 5 favorite Chiang Mai temples. If you’re running a tight schedule, these are the five I recommend visiting. All of them, except Phra That Doi Suthep, are walkable and close to or within the old city.
✔️ Wat Lok Moli
✔️ Wat Phra Singh
✔️ Wat Chedi Luang
✔️ Wat Phan Tao
✔️ Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
For a quick and easy dose of history, these five temples offer a unique insight into the Lanna Kingdom’s rare architecture with Wat Phan Tao being a very distinctive “Teak Temple”.
🔥 Pro tip >> Both Wat Phan Tao and Wat Phra Singh are included in this private highlights and hidden gems tour of Chiang Mai. Join a knowledgeable guide and immerse yourself in local life as well as some of the most beautiful temples the city has to offer!
Temple glossary
Some words and phrases that are useful to know when visiting temples in Chiang Mai.
- Lanna Architecture/Kingdom: Ruled Northern Thailand from 1292 until 1775. Lanna temples are easily recognizable with their steep, multi-tiered roofs. The small windows and doors, a nod to the origins of the Lanna people who migrated from colder regions, contribute to the unique ambiance inside.
- Wat: A Buddhist monastery or temple (in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos).
- Chedi: Stupas or Pagodas: a dome-shaped structure erected as a Buddhist shrine.
- Ubosot: The main prayer room is surrounded by 8 Sema stones, which designate the area as sacred.
- Vihara: A Buddhist monastery. (Wihan or Assembly Hall), used for ceremonies and prayer, the Vihara lacks the boundary Sema stones.
- Naga: (in Indian mythology) a member of a semidivine race, part human, part cobra in form, usually decorates staircase railings in Chiang Mai temples.
Most beautiful Chiang Mai temples
A majority of Chaing Mai’s most popular temples are within the old city which is great as it means they are easy to get to on foot. However, depending on when you’re visiting midday heat can be a killer.
This is also where you can experience many festivals and parades throughout the year, such as the Chiang Mai Flower Festival, often centered around Buak Hat Park.
I recommend visiting temples early in the morning or towards sunset. This way you’ll stay out of the midday sun but also see fewer crowds.
1. Wat Lok Moli
As I mentioned above, Wat Lok Moli was one of my favorite temples. It’s just outside the old city but it’s so close to the wall I’ve listed it here. It’s a fantastic hidden gem in Chiang Mai which often gets missed; we were the only tourists there!
The main chedi contains the ashes of several kings (and queens, such as those of Queen Wisutthithew) from the Mengrai dynasty. The Mengrai Dynasty played a key role in Chiang Mai’s history and was founded by King Mengrai in the late 13th century, shaping the city’s character.
We enjoyed the variety of temples at Lok Moli, including the shrines, elephant statues and notably, the Nagas guarding the entrance. As with most temples in Chaing Mai Wat Lok Moli is covered in intricate detail and continues to be used by practicing monks.
If you head there around 4:00 pm, you can listen to the monks chanting on most weekdays.
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – 298/1 Manee Nopparat Rd, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Timings – 10:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
2. Wat Chiang Man
Wat Chiang Man temple is another fantastic gem. The ubosot dates back to the 13th century and the temple complex is steeped in history holding the title of the oldest Royal Temple in the city.
The extensive grounds, numerous temples, and the iconic gold chedi with elephant sculptures make it a fantastic spot for anyone wanting to see early Lanna architecture.
The elephant chedi, Chedi Chang Lom, is a standout feature and a testament to the temple’s rich heritage. The combination of historical significance and architectural marvel makes Wat Chiang Man a lovely stop for anyone exploring Chiang Mai.
However, it’s good to know that it can get a bit crowded, especially during peak hours. For a calmer experience, heading there around sunset is a good idea.
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – 270 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Timings – 6:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
3. Wat Chedi Luang
Another one of our favorites was Wat Chedi Luang – it’s huge! The sheer size of the chedi is pretty breathtaking; it’s a historical giant in the heart of Chiang Mai.
It was built during the Mengrai Dynasty and is around 600 years old; rich in history it holds a special place in the city’s story. Before the temple was partly destroyed in an earthquake it stood at over 80 meters; it’s not that high anymore but it’s still impressive in size.
The temple complex has a serene atmosphere, and the intricate details on the ruins are lovely although it’s not as deeply embellished as others. That said, the Vihara Lai Kham and the Vihara Phra Sai are pretty.
If you’re there in the evening, the illuminated chedi creates a magical sight.
Don’t miss the City Pillar Shrine nearby; it represents the city’s guardian spirit and is believed to bring prosperity and safeguard the area.
Monk chats are available! Some temples in Chiang Mai offer a place where you can talk to Buddhist monks to help them improve their English and learn more about their beliefs and way of life.
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – Wat Chedi Luang, 103 Prapokkloa Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Timings – 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
- Entry Fee – 50 Baht
4. Wat Phra Singh (Lion Buddha Temple)
Wat Phra Singh is one of the most popular temples so it’s best to visit first thing and beat the crowds. It’s also one of the largest temple complexes in Chiang Mai and is quite breathtaking, hence why it’s on my list of favorites.
We spent a good hour drifting around the temples, exploring the shrines and being wowed by the huge gold chedi towards the rear. It was one of our most enjoyable days so make sure you add a visit to your itinerary.
Wat Phra Singh dates back to the 14th century and is a wonderful example of Lanna architecture which fuses Mon, Burmese, and Thai elements.
The main attraction is the Phra Singh Buddha (Lion Buddha) in the Wihan Lai Kham, known for its intricate details and gold embellishments. It’s believed the Buddha came from Sri Lanka and was enshrined in 1367.
The temple grounds are stunning to walk around and feature murals depicting the cultural history of Chiang Mai. Visit to experience the historical and spiritual significance of this iconic site.
Monk chats are available!
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – 2 Samlarn Rd, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50280, Thailand
- Timings – 6:00 am to 9:00 pm
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
🌟 My top pick >> Wat Suan Dok, Wat Phan Tao and Wat Phra Singh are all included in this private highlights and hidden gems tour of Chiang Mai. Join a local guide and immerse yourself in local life as well as some of the most beautiful temples the city has to offer!
5. Wat Phan Tao
Another lovely and unique temple, Wat Phan Tao sits next to the huge Wat Chedi Luang and usually gets overseen, but make a stop here and you won’t be disappointed. It’s another of our favorites and stands out as one of the only wooden temples in Chiang Mai (or at least that we know about).
It’s made of teak wood and has a peaceful atmosphere. Inside you’ll find the Phra Buddha Singh Buddha statue which is used during the Songkran festival procession.
We enjoyed this temple including the beautiful shiny gold chedi located towards the rear. Combine it with your visit to the big Chedi Luang and you’ll have a fantastic experience!
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – 127/7 Prapokkloa Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Timings – 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
6. Wat Lam Chang
Wat Lam Chang is a hidden treasure in the heart of Chaing Mai. It’s close to the popular Wat Chiang Man and frequently gets overlooked but go here if you want to experience a local, charming temple away from the crowds.
If you love cats this is also the temple to visit. There were lots of cute cats around the grounds looking healthy and loved. Within the temple complex, you’ll be able to pick up an amulet for good luck too.
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – Moon Muang Rd Lane 7, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Timings – 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
7. Wat Pan Ping
Another small local temple that deserves a quick stop if you’re passing by. The front temple is new as it was destroyed in a fire but the temple complex was originally built in the 16th century.
Inside is a lovely main hall, which is beautifully painted red, you’ll notice stunning stained-glass windows. Towards the rear of the complex still exists an older very beautiful temple but one of the best things is the 6:00 pm chanting which you can witness every night.
It’s close to the Three Kings Monument, a historical landmark located in the heart of the Old City which commemorates the three founders of Chiang Mai: King Mengrai, King Ramkhamhaeng, and King Ngam Muang.
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – 194 Ratchapakhinai Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Timings – 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
8. Wat Umong
We never visited Wat Umong but I’ve heard it’s a lovely temple so I didn’t want you guys to miss out! I wish we had because it sounds exciting; you can walk around underground tunnels and listen to talking trees…. It sounds like something I would just love.
It’s an old temple too, dating back to the 13th century, where you’ll find a huge crumbling central stupa, a meditation center, a small lake home to turtles and fish, and a museum on site; there are even cave paintings to be on the lookout for!
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – 135 Moo 10, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Timings – 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
9. Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple)
The famous Silver Temple in Chaing Mai is a unique temple that is completely covered in silver, aluminum and nickel. It’s not one of the oldest temples but it’s distinctive and can be a fun and interesting place to visit.
You’ll find silver workshops around the temple complex where you can talk to silversmiths and learn about the ancient techniques used to create the temple and those of the Buddha images lining the walls of the temple.
It’s a popular temple to visit – due to its distinguishing silver features – but it gets extra busy on Saturdays during the Walking Street Market since it’s on the same road.
Keep in mind that the main Ubosot is open for men only.
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – 100 Wua Lai Rd, Tambon Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- Timings – 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (Saturday closes at 11:00 pm)
- Entry Fee – 50 Baht
10. Wat Ket Karam
Wat Ket Karam is a quirky temple on the east river bank outside the old walled city. It’s a small temple complex and doesn’t get visited as much as it deserves but it should! It’s a feel-good kind of temple with vibes that will make your day.
The temple boasts traditional Lanna architecture, with intricate details and charming wooden structures. One of its notable features is a revered Buddha image in the Vihara and a museum that exhibits antiques and old photos.
As well as this, the temple is filled with colorful figurines. The offbeat surroundings make it a lovely spot for families but since it’s less crowded than the more famous temples, you’ll get a more intimate and tranquil experience too.
If you’re interested in exploring off-the-beaten-path temples in Chiang Mai, Wat Ket Karam is definitely worth a visit!
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – 96 Tambon Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
- Timings – 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
11. Wat Suan Dok
Wat Suan Dok, the Temple of the Flower Garden, is a captivating site with roots dating back to the late 14th century. It’s a hugely popular temple to visit in Chaing Mai with white chedi housing the ashes of the Lanna royal family.
The cemetery garden is adorned with these Lanna-style white pagodas, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. There is a central golden pagoda too which provides the perfect touch of colour to the surroundings, adding to the overall beauty and historical significance.
The garden has been transformed into a temple and retreat center, where you can participate in free meditation classes.
Monk chats are available!
VISITOR INFORMATION
- Location – 139 Suthep Rd, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Timings – 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
12. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most popular temples in Chaing Mai! You’ll find it sitting proudly at the very top of Doi Suthep Mountain, just on the outskirts of the city. It’s old, dating back to the 14th century and is not only a stunning temple but has outstanding views of the surrounding landscape.
Keep in mind there are 300 steps to reach the temple – you could jump in a cable car for 50 Baht – but where’s the fun in that…(?) it’s probably quite fun actually!
Legend has it that the temple was built to house a relic of the Buddha. The impressive golden chedi, intricate carvings, and the iconic Naga staircase make this site truly breathtaking. Even though it’s a bit of a climb to reach the top, but the experience and the view are well worth it.
For a serene visit, consider going early in the morning or late at night to beat the crowds.
Visitor Information
- Location – Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Timings – 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee – 50 Baht
13. Wat Phra That Doi Kham
Wat Phra That Doi Kham is another temple we couldn’t make but one that should definitely be on your list if you have the time. It’s a lesser-known temple than the others so it attracts fewer tourists making it a great off-the-beaten spot to visit during peak times.
Would you believe the whole temple complex is over 1,000 years old?! It’s also home to a giant seated Buddha reaching nearly 20 meters! It looks stunning, with breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.
There are plenty of pagodas, relics and an impressive gold-leaf chedi to explore set among tropical gardens and a terrace to overlook the foothills of Doi Suthep.
Visitor Information
- Location – Mae Hia, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- Timings – 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee – Free to enter
Guidelines for visiting Chiang Mai temples
There are some important guidelines that you should take note of when visiting temples throughout Thailand; the most important is to ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
If you don’t follow these guidelines you could find you are denied entrance to the temples which would certainly ruin your day. Sometimes it’s possible to slip in without being stopped but entering inappropriately is very disrespectful, so please don’t try this.
- Dress appropriately. For men and women shoulders and knees should be covered. You can wrap a sarong around you if you don’t want to wear long trousers throughout the day. At some temples, it’s possible to hire coverings although this is not always available.
- It’s not good etiquette to take pictures of monks without asking permission first.
- When entering temples you should always take shoes off first, never enter with your shoes still on – wear shoes which are easily removable.
- Respect temple signage and instructions, and be aware a handful of temples are men only.
- During prayer time or ceremonies, it’s not usually possible to go inside temples.
- Do not point your feet toward the Buddha statues, nor take photos with your back turned towards them. This is very important as both are considered disrespectful.
How to get around Chiang Mai
The easiest way is to visit the temples on foot, especially around the old town. Chiang Mai is super easy to walk, however, it’s also easy to hail down a tuk-tuk or songthaew.
When wandering around Chiang Mai’s temples, deciding between a tuk-tuk or a songthaew depends on the vibe you’re after. Tuk-tuks are fantastic for a quick, zippy ride, offering a breezy and lively experience so I would say they are more suited for visiting temples inside the city.
On the other hand, songthaews are more budget-friendly and can carry more people, they are great if you’re with friends heading to Doi Suthep.
Just remember: for a short hop, go tuk-tuk; for a scenic, group ride, hop on a songthaew.
You also have the option to rent a bicycle. We didn’t do this but there are numerous bike rental companies dotted around the city. It seems to be a very popular option where city bike tours are also available if you’d prefer a guided bike tour.
For visiting temples further away, like Doi Suthep, you can rent a scooter from Chaing Mai.
Don’t forget to buy an eSIM! Gone are the days when you had to get a local SIM and hope you wouldn’t get scammed.
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Chiang Mai temple tours
Another popular way to get around the temples is to book a tour. There are many tours to choose from depending on your preferences.
🌟 My top pick is this private highlights & hidden gems with locals tour. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour unveils the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the revered Wat Phra Singh and the majestic Wat Chedi Luang.
You’ll also discover hidden gems that showcase the authentic charm of Chiang Mai. From vibrant markets to lesser-known temples, this private tour ensures a personalized and immersive experience, allowing you to delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of this captivating city.
🌟 This affordable small-group tour is a convenient way to tick off four of Chiang Mai’s most beautiful architectural gems without having to look up public transport schedules.
Zip around the city in a tuk-tuk and see Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and Wat Pha Lat temples, as well as Tha Phae Gate. And best of all, admission is included so you don’t waste time waiting in ticket lines.
In summary
I like to end with some final thoughts about Chiang Mai’s temples and why you should visit. As I mentioned, Chaing Mai is a favorite of mine but to be honest, Thailand ranks pretty high as one of my all-time favorite countries.
There are many reasons why but for Chiang Mai specifically the culture and people are huge positives. You’ll notice that the locals are very friendly and always welcoming; the food is also sensational.
As for the temples, unless you’re traveling around more of Northern Thailand they are pretty unique, they’re definitely different from those further south so it’s a really nice experience to stroll around them.
Anyone who enjoys architecture, culture and heritage will enjoy visiting Chaing Mai’s temples but also those of you who enjoy nature, hiking and wildlife (like visiting elephant sanctuaries) will also find Chiang Mai captivating. That’s probably why we love Chaing Mai, we enjoy all these things combined!
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