Wat Pha Lat Chiang Mai
A serene jungle temple reached by a scenic hike, offering a mystical escape with ancient architecture and lush greenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and fewer crowds
Wat Pha Lat Chiang Mai
Best Time
Peaceful and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene jungle temple reached by a scenic hike, offering a mystical escape with ancient architecture and lush greenery.
"This temple in the mountain feels like it's straight out of a movie, a magical place where spirituality meets nature."
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for the Monk's Trail, especially after rain. Muddy spots can be slippery.
🧣 Sarong for Modesty
Cover shoulders and knees for temple entry. Easy to carry and use.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jungle Temple Serenity
Nestled in the forest
A mystical Buddhist temple blending ancient architecture with lush jungle surroundings. Feels like a secret discovery.
+1
The Monk's Trail
Doi Suthep mountain foothills
A peaceful 30-minute hike through nature leading to the hidden temple. Rewarding and scenic.
Waterfalls and Greenery
Temple grounds
Discover small waterfalls and vibrant greenery that enhance the temple's tranquil and magical atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hike
Dress Respectfully
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for the Monk's Trail, especially after rain. Muddy spots can be slippery.
🧣 Sarong for Modesty
Cover shoulders and knees for temple entry. Easy to carry and use.
💧 Bring Water & Bug Spray
Stay hydrated on the hike and protect yourself from insects.
🚗 Grab/Taxi Back
Easily find a ride back to the city from the temple.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for the Monk's Trail, especially after rain. Muddy spots can be slippery.
🧣 Sarong for Modesty
Cover shoulders and knees for temple entry. Easy to carry and use.
💧 Bring Water & Bug Spray
Stay hydrated on the hike and protect yourself from insects.
🚗 Grab/Taxi Back
Easily find a ride back to the city from the temple.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Mystical light and lush scenery make for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Wat Pha Lat's mystical jungle setting and peaceful ambiance, calling it a true hidden gem. The hike along the Monk's Trail is a highlight, offering a scenic prelude to the temple's serene beauty and photogenic architecture. While some find the trail challenging, most agree the tranquility and natural surroundings are well worth the effort. +1
"Mystical - Peaceful - Photogenic
We had an amazing visit to Wat Pha Lat and can easily give it five stars. We chose to hike the Monk’s Trail, which is a scenic walk through the jungle, not too difficult, but it gets warm in the heat, so don’t forget to bring a bottle of water. Taking it slow, we enjoyed spotting birds, spiders, and other insects along the way; it’s a lovely mini-adventure for nature lovers. The temple complex itself is absolutely beautiful, set right in the middle of lush greenery and dramatic jungle scenery. If you love photography, you’ll be in heaven! When we arrived, clouds rolled in and transformed the whole place into something mystical with the perfect light for taking stunning photos. The temples, statues, and deities are all incredible to see up close.
One of the best parts was how peaceful it felt. We visited during the off-season (mid-August), and there were hardly any other people around, especially on the trail, so it felt like we had this magical spot almost to ourselves. After exploring, we took a taxi back to the city to escape the midday heat and to avoid a long walk down (especially if you don’t want to hike back the same way). Highly recommended for a bit of adventure and a lot of beauty at one of Chiang Mai’s true hidden gems!"
Samuel
"A Peaceful Gem on Doi Suthep 🌿✨
Wat Pha Lat, built in 1355 by King Kuena of the Lanna Kingdom, was once a resting stop for pilgrims heading to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Nestled in the forest, it’s serene, beautiful, and full of history.
I walked a short part of the Monk’s Trail before rain poured down — Chiang Mai showers are no joke! The mist, waterfalls, and forest sounds made the temple feel even more magical.
A perfect spot to slow down, breathe, and find peace. Highly recommended! 💚"
Chatwut Wangwon
"Beautiful temple in the mountain,you can reach it with car or hiking, which i would suggest.
Is not an easy path but you can appreciate the beautiful nature along the way.
The silence,the waterfall and the peace make this temple really suggestive."
Stefano Niespolo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Wat Pha Lat via the Monk's Trail, a scenic hike starting from the foothills of Doi Suthep. Alternatively, you can take a Grab or taxi directly to the temple.
The Monk's Trail to Wat Pha Lat is generally considered easy to moderate, taking about 30 minutes. It can be steep and muddy in parts, especially during the rainy season. +1
Yes, Grab is available to take you directly to Wat Pha Lat. It's a convenient option if you prefer not to hike.
Limited parking is available near the trailhead for the Monk's Trail, but it can fill up. Taxis and Grab are more reliable options.
Yes, the Monk's Trail continues to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, but this section is steeper and more challenging. Many visitors opt to hike only to Wat Pha Lat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Wat Pha Lat is a functioning temple and monastery, and there is no entrance fee. Donations are welcome.
Wat Pha Lat is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
Yes, as a religious site, modest dress is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful of worshippers and monks. Avoid intrusive photography.
Be mindful of the temple's peaceful nature. Avoid loud noises and dress respectfully.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wat Pha Lat features beautiful Lanna and Burmese architecture, intricate statues, lush greenery, and small waterfalls, creating a serene jungle atmosphere.
Absolutely. Its peaceful jungle setting and tranquil ambiance make it an ideal spot for meditation and quiet reflection.
You can spend anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on whether you hike, explore thoroughly, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Basic facilities are available, but they are simple. It's advisable to use restrooms before you arrive or be prepared for basic amenities.
Yes, families can enjoy the gentle hike and the beautiful temple grounds. However, keep a close eye on young children, especially near water features.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light. Overcast or misty conditions after rain can also create a mystical atmosphere.
The main temple structures, moss-covered statues, the surrounding jungle, and the waterfalls are all highly photogenic.
Be respectful of the sacred nature of the site. Avoid using flash photography directly at monks or during ceremonies.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the temple's integration with the jungle. A standard zoom is versatile. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is generally not permitted at temples in Thailand due to privacy and religious sensitivities. Always check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The temple grounds offer a visually engaging experience with statues and greenery. It's a more intimate and less crowded experience than some of the larger temples, which can be easier to manage with children. Ensure everyone is dressed respectfully to enter the temple areas.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
If you're a keen hiker, you can extend your trek to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, but be prepared for a more challenging ascent. Alternatively, enjoy the serene atmosphere of Wat Pha Lat and then easily catch a Grab back to the city.
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers & Meditators
Many visitors find the temple to be a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai. The Monk's Trail hike itself can be a meditative experience, allowing you to disconnect and focus on the present moment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monk's Trail: Your Gateway to Serenity
Key advice for the trail: Wear sturdy, grippy footwear as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. Bringing water and insect repellent is highly recommended to ensure a comfortable journey. While some find it easy enough for toddlers, others suggest it's best for those in moderate physical condition.
For those who wish to continue their journey, the Monk's Trail also leads to the more famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. However, this upper section is significantly steeper and more challenging. Many visitors choose to enjoy Wat Pha Lat and then arrange transport back to the city.
Wat Pha Lat: A Hidden Jungle Sanctuary
+1The temple complex is adorned with intricate statues, moss-covered structures, and small, charming waterfalls that add to its magical allure. Visitors often describe the feeling of stepping into a different era, a place where spirituality and nature are deeply intertwined. The peaceful ambiance is a major draw, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and meditation.
Photography enthusiasts will find Wat Pha Lat particularly rewarding. The interplay of light filtering through the jungle canopy, the ancient architecture, and the vibrant greenery provides endless opportunities for stunning shots. Visiting after a rain shower can enhance the visual appeal with lush foliage and flowing waterfalls.
Practicalities for Your Visit
Getting back to the city is generally easy. Grab or local taxis are readily available from the temple grounds. Some Redditors mention that red truck taxis (songthaews) might be present, though not always guaranteed.
While the temple itself is free to enter, donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep. Remember to be mindful of the serene environment, keeping noise levels down and respecting the monks and their practices.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit