Wat Ku Tao Chiang Mai
Discover Wat Ku Tao, a serene Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai famed for its unique 'watermelon' chedi and tranquil, local atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures & fewer crowds
Wat Ku Tao Chiang Mai
Best Time
Cooler temperatures & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Wat Ku Tao, a serene Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai famed for its unique 'watermelon' chedi and tranquil, local atmosphere.
"A less touristy gem with a unique 'watermelon' chedi, offering a peaceful escape and local charm. "
👟 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site.
📸 Capture the Chedi
The unique 'watermelon' chedi is a must-photograph.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Watermelon' Chedi
Main temple grounds
Marvel at the unique, gourd-shaped stupa, a distinctive architectural style rarely seen elsewhere.
Tranquil Temple Grounds
Throughout the temple complex
Wander through peaceful, shady grounds adorned with intricate wall sculptures and a large golden Buddha statue.
Authentic Local Experience
Temple complex
Experience a less touristy side of Chiang Mai, often frequented by local monks and residents.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Wat Ku Tao
Respectful Attire is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site.
📸 Capture the Chedi
The unique 'watermelon' chedi is a must-photograph.
🚶♂️ Explore Off-Peak
Visit during quieter times for a more serene experience.
💧 Grounds Need TLC
Be prepared for grounds that may not be perfectly maintained.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for this sacred site.
📸 Capture the Chedi
The unique 'watermelon' chedi is a must-photograph.
🚶♂️ Explore Off-Peak
Visit during quieter times for a more serene experience.
💧 Grounds Need TLC
Be prepared for grounds that may not be perfectly maintained.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Ku Tao is appreciated for its unique 'watermelon' chedi and tranquil, less touristy atmosphere, offering a glimpse into local temple life. However, some visitors note that the temple grounds could be better maintained, with a few finding it a bit run-down. Despite this, it's considered a worthwhile stop for its distinct architecture and peaceful ambiance.
"A temple that’s stands out from many others cause of the big round formed chedi and the tall temple next to the main one. Nice and shady temple grounds but not that well kept and to be honest all the surrounding trees makes it quite difficult to take some good picture at the temples here. I still enjoyed 15 minutes here walking around looking at everything. Also you won’t find many tourist here as it’s a bit outside the city centre"
Kasper Hammer-Hansen
"Wat Ku Tao, in Chiang Mai,
Wat Ku Tao is built in a Yunnanese style, with five diminishing spheres stacked on top of each other.
This has led to its nickname, "The Temple of the Gourd Pagoda" or "The Watermelon Chedi," as the stacked spheres resemble a pile of gourds or melons."
Yuthakiat Moungpech
"It feels odd to give three stars to a place of worship, but Wat Ku Tao stood out among local temples for a couple of reasons: it's definitely less touristy and off the beaten path, which is nice -- but it also feels really run-down and disused, like there'd been a frat party the night before and everyone left for spring break without cleaning up.
We were kind of delighted at first to see novice monks (boys of about 8 years of age) receiving tutoring in an open pavilion when we first arrived, and the main Stupa is indeed fairly different than you will see elsewhere... But as you explore, you can't help but think the whole place is kind of gross and in need of a good cleaning. I was surprised and disappointed, but my wife reminds me it's not my place to judge, and I am sure she's correct."
Andy Knight
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Ku Tao is located a bit outside the main city center. You can reach it by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or a rented scooter. It's a short drive from Chiang Mai Stadium.
Public transport options directly to Wat Ku Tao are limited. It's more convenient to use ride-sharing services or rent a scooter for flexibility.
Many travelers find renting a scooter offers the most freedom. Alternatively, Grab is readily available and affordable for getting between attractions.
Wat Ku Tao is a short drive from the Old City, typically around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, there is usually space to park scooters or cars near the temple entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Wat Ku Tao is a functioning temple and typically does not charge an entrance fee for visitors. Donations are always appreciated.
Temples in Thailand are generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
No, advance booking is not required as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
Yes, Wat Ku Tao is open on public holidays. It might be slightly busier with local visitors.
Yes, a respectful dress code is essential. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'watermelon' chedi is the most iconic photo spot. The golden Buddha statue and the unique wall sculptures are also great for pictures.
Photography is generally allowed in the temple grounds, but it's always respectful to check for any specific signage or ask permission before taking photos inside sacred areas.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the temple's architecture. Early morning can also provide soft light and fewer crowds.
Using drones is generally not permitted at temples or in populated areas without specific permits. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
It's best to ask for permission before photographing monks. Be mindful and respectful of their privacy.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Its most distinctive feature is the 'watermelon' or 'gourd' chedi, a unique architectural style. It's also less touristy, offering a more local and tranquil experience.
Most visitors spend around 15-30 minutes exploring the grounds and admiring the architecture.
Basic restroom facilities may be available, but they might not be as well-maintained as in more tourist-centric locations.
The temple grounds are relatively flat, but some areas might have uneven surfaces. It's generally accessible, but caution is advised.
Yes, donations are welcome and help with the upkeep of the temple. There are usually donation boxes available.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the temple is less maintained than some other attractions, so supervise younger children closely. The focus here is on a serene atmosphere rather than interactive exhibits, making it a good option for a short, calm visit between more active adventures.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Rent a scooter or use Grab to easily access the temple. The relatively short visit time (15-30 minutes) makes it a perfect addition to a day of exploring other Chiang Mai attractions. Remember to dress respectfully and be mindful of the local customs.
📸 Photographers
+1While the grounds might not be perfectly manicured, this can add to the authentic, lived-in feel of the shots. The lack of crowds means you'll have more freedom to compose your shots without people in the background. Be sure to capture the unique shape of the stupa from various angles.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: Wat Ku Tao's 'Watermelon' Chedi
While the chedi is the main draw, the temple grounds also feature other interesting elements. Visitors often note the gorgeous wall sculptures in the yard and a large golden Buddha statue within the main temple building. These details add to the overall artistic and spiritual ambiance of the site, even if the overall upkeep of the grounds is sometimes noted as being less than perfect.
The temple's unique design and historical significance offer a glimpse into the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Chiang Mai. It's a testament to the blend of Burmese and Lanna styles, creating a visually captivating experience for those who seek out this less-traveled temple.
Experiencing Local Life at Wat Ku Tao
Travelers have noted seeing novice monks receiving tutoring in open pavilions, which adds a charming and educational dimension to the visit. This provides a rare opportunity to witness the daily routines and learning environment of young monks. The quiet atmosphere allows for a more contemplative visit, where one can truly soak in the spiritual essence of the place.
While some reviews mention that the temple grounds could benefit from better maintenance, this aspect also contributes to its raw, unpolished charm. It feels less like a curated tourist attraction and more like a living, breathing place of worship. For those looking to step away from the typical tourist trail and experience a slice of genuine local culture, Wat Ku Tao offers a valuable opportunity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit