Wat Phra That Hariphunchai Lamphun
A revered ancient Buddhist temple in Lamphun, famous for its golden stupa and the magical 'Lantern Festival of a Hundred Thousand Lights'.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lantern festival magic!
Wat Phra That Hariphunchai Lamphun
Best Time
Lantern festival magic!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revered ancient Buddhist temple in Lamphun, famous for its golden stupa and the magical 'Lantern Festival of a Hundred Thousand Lights'.
"A timeless masterpiece of spirituality and architecture, where every corner whispers centuries of faith and artistry."
🎯 Dress Modestly for Respect
Cover shoulders & knees. Robes available. Remove shoes indoors.
✨ Lantern Festival Vibes
Visit Sept-Nov for the 'Hundred Thousand Lights' festival. Book ahead!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Golden Central Stupa
Temple grounds
A magnificent 46-meter-tall gilded stupa, believed to house a Buddha relic. A true symbol of Lamphun's heritage.

Chedi Suwanna
Temple grounds
A unique pyramid-shaped chedi featured on Thailand's one-satang coin, showcasing intricate tiered design.

World's Largest Bronze Gong
Wihan (assembly hall)
An impressive 1860 cast bronze gong, a testament to the temple's historical significance and craftsmanship.

Lantern Festival of a Hundred Thousand Lights
Temple grounds
Experience the magical ambiance of thousands of lanterns illuminating the temple during this annual festival.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Lantern Festival
Dress Code and Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly for Respect
Cover shoulders & knees. Robes available. Remove shoes indoors.
✨ Lantern Festival Vibes
Visit Sept-Nov for the 'Hundred Thousand Lights' festival. Book ahead!
🚶♀️ Explore the Walking Street
Enjoy local crafts & food on Friday evenings near the temple.
🙏 Year of the Rooster?
This is your zodiac temple! A special pilgrimage site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly for Respect
Cover shoulders & knees. Robes available. Remove shoes indoors.
✨ Lantern Festival Vibes
Visit Sept-Nov for the 'Hundred Thousand Lights' festival. Book ahead!
🚶♀️ Explore the Walking Street
Enjoy local crafts & food on Friday evenings near the temple.
🙏 Year of the Rooster?
This is your zodiac temple! A special pilgrimage site.
🏛️ Pair with National Museum
Understand Lamphun's history before visiting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Phra That Hariphunchai as a magnificent and historically significant temple, highlighting its stunning golden stupa and serene atmosphere. Many appreciate its cultural richness and architectural beauty, especially during the enchanting lantern festival. Some note that Lamphun itself is a quiet town, which can be a pro or con depending on preference.
"Wat Phra That Hariphunchai is a magnificent temple located in the heart of Lamphun, Northern Thailand. Steeped in history and spiritual significance, this ancient temple is one of the most revered landmarks in the region and a must-visit for both cultural enthusiasts and spiritual seekers. Dating back to the 11th century, the temple was originally built during the reign of King Athitayarat of the Hariphunchai Kingdom, which predates the Lanna Kingdom. Its most iconic feature is the golden chedi (stupa), believed to enshrine a relic of the Lord Buddha. The chedi gleams brightly under the sun and serves as a symbol of Lamphun's rich heritage. The temple grounds are serene and beautifully maintained, featuring a blend of Lanna and Hariphunchai architectural styles. Visitors can admire intricate carvings, traditional murals, and ancient structures that tell the story of a once-flourishing kingdom. The atmosphere is peaceful, making it an ideal place for quiet reflection and prayer. Wat Phra That Hariphunchai is also an important pilgrimage site, especially for those born in the Year of the Rooster, as it is considered their zodiac temple. The temple hosts several important Buddhist festivals throughout the year, attracting both locals and tourists. In summary, Wat Phra That Hariphunchai is more than just a religious site—it is a living testament to Thailand’s deep-rooted history, artistry, and devotion. Whether you're a history buff, a cultural traveler, or someone seeking spiritual insight, a visit to this temple offers a memorable and enriching experience."
Pattana Moon
"If you are interested in Thai history, it is a place to visit. It is close to the museum, so I recommend you to go to the museum first and visit it after understanding the history.
It is a beautiful temple that contains the history of the queen who created a city-state."
Lee Thomas (wanderer)
"This is one of major temples in northern of Thailand. The pagoda is the most famous in the temple. It is known as the pagoda of rooster zodiac of East Asian.
All visitors must wear proper attires which cover legs and shoulders. Women in shorts may cover with provided robes."
Thanathip Moolvong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Chiang Mai, you can take a tuk-tuk (about 30-45 minutes) or a bus (45-60 minutes) to Lamphun. The temple is centrally located within the town.
Yes, local transportation like songthaews (shared pick-up trucks) and tuk-tuks are available for getting around Lamphun and to nearby attractions.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip, taking about 30-45 minutes to reach Lamphun. You can easily combine it with other local sights.
During the lantern festival, it's advisable to book transport in advance. Buses and private taxis are common options from Chiang Mai.
Yes, car park space is available at the temple, making it convenient for visitors arriving by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Thai holidays.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee of 20 THB for adults and children.
While the temple itself doesn't require advance tickets for general visits, major events like the Yi Peng Festival in nearby Chiang Mai can sell out. For Wat Phra That Hariphunchai's lantern festival, it's generally accessible without pre-booked tickets, but checking local event schedules is wise.
Visitors must wear proper attire that covers shoulders and knees. Women wearing shorts can use provided robes.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking photos during ceremonies.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the Golden Central Stupa, Chedi Suwanna, the World's Largest Bronze Gong, and the Ho Trai (scripture library).
Yes, it's a highly revered Buddhist sanctuary and an important pilgrimage site, especially for those born in the Year of the Rooster.
Wat Phra That Hariphunchai is considered the zodiac temple for individuals born in the Year of the Rooster, making it a significant site for them.
The temple hosts several important Buddhist festivals, most notably the 'Lantern Festival of a Hundred Thousand Lights' which attracts many visitors.
The temple showcases a blend of Lanna and Hariphunchai architectural styles, reflecting its long history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, especially on Friday evenings, there's a lively walking street nearby with plenty of local food stalls and vendors.
You can try refreshing coconut smoothies to beat the heat and delicious traditional dishes like rice with boiled chicken.
While not explicitly mentioned, many Thai street food stalls offer vegetarian options. It's best to ask vendors directly.
The walking street offers a variety of local snacks, sweets, and savory dishes, reflecting Northern Thai cuisine.
Typically, temples do not have restaurants within their grounds, but there are usually eateries and street food vendors in the vicinity.
📸 📸 Photography
The Golden Central Stupa, especially at sunset, offers stunning photo opportunities. The intricate details of Chedi Suwanna and the temple architecture are also highly photogenic.
Yes, photography is generally permitted during the lantern festival, allowing you to capture the magical ambiance. Be mindful of crowds and other visitors.
Early mornings offer a serene atmosphere and soft light, while sunset provides a golden glow on the stupa. The temple is also beautifully lit at night during the festival.
While generally allowed, avoid intrusive photography of monks or worshippers during prayer. Always be respectful.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the stupa and temple grounds. A telephoto lens can be good for architectural details. A tripod might be helpful for night shots during the festival, but check if they are permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind the dress code: ensure children are dressed modestly to cover shoulders and knees. The temple grounds are generally safe and spacious for them to explore. Consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings, to make the experience more comfortable for younger ones. Bringing water and snacks is always a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Once there, you can enjoy the temple's beauty without further expense. For meals, exploring the local markets, especially the Friday walking street, offers delicious and inexpensive street food options. This makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience Thai culture without breaking the bank.
💑 Couples
Enjoying the vibrant walking street on a Friday evening, sampling local delicacies together, and taking in the illuminated temple create a perfect date experience. The temple's historical significance also adds a layer of depth to your visit, offering shared moments of discovery and reflection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Wat Phra That Hariphunchai
The architecture itself tells a story of cultural fusion. While rooted in Hariphunchai traditions, the temple also bears the influence of later Lanna rulers who expanded and enhanced the complex. This blend is evident in the various chedis, vihans (assembly halls), and decorative elements found throughout the grounds. The presence of the 'World's Largest Bronze Gong' and a 15th-century Lanna Buddha statue further underscores its historical and artistic value.
Beyond its religious and historical significance, Wat Phra That Hariphunchai is deeply intertwined with local legends, particularly those surrounding Queen Chamadevi, the legendary founder of Lamphun. Footprints believed to be the Buddha's are also found on the southwestern corner, adding another layer of mystique. The temple's role as the zodiac temple for those born in the Year of the Rooster also makes it a personal pilgrimage site for many.
Experiencing the Lantern Festival
During the festival, visitors can immerse themselves in the serene yet vibrant atmosphere. The sight of the golden stupa adorned with lanterns is particularly captivating, especially as dusk settles and the lights begin to twinkle. Many visitors find this period to be the most memorable, offering a chance to witness the temple in a different, more festive light.
If you plan to visit during the festival, especially on a Friday, you're in for an added treat. A lively walking street often pops up nearby, offering local crafts, delicious street food, and a chance to mingle with the community. This combination of spiritual serenity and festive celebration makes the lantern festival a highlight for many travelers.
Lamphun's Charm: Beyond the Temple
Beyond the temple, explore the nearby Haripunchai National Museum to delve deeper into the region's rich history and the legacy of Queen Chamadevi. For those interested in local crafts, the Cotton Market by the temple is a great place to find unique handmade items and witness local artistry.
Lamphun also offers opportunities to savor local flavors. Don't miss trying refreshing coconut smoothies to combat the tropical heat, or indulging in traditional dishes like rice with boiled chicken. The Friday evening walking street is a fantastic place to sample a variety of local snacks and delicacies, providing a true taste of Northern Thai culture.
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