Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai - gold concrete building during daytime
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Wat Phra Singh Chiang Mai

4.7
·16k reviews·, Thailand

A jewel of Lanna architecture, Wat Phra Singh enchants with golden stupas, vibrant murals, and a revered Buddha statue.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai - gold concrete building during daytime

Wat Phra Singh Chiang Mai

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A jewel of Lanna architecture, Wat Phra Singh enchants with golden stupas, vibrant murals, and a revered Buddha statue.

4.7
(16k reviews)

"One of the best temples I’ve visited during my time in Chiang Mai."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Courtyards

Explore the peaceful grounds and smaller shrines for a truly spiritual experience.

👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry

Step inside shrines barefoot to show respect and feel the spiritual energy.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Phra Singh Buddha Statue

Phra Singh Buddha Statue

Viharn Lai Kham

The revered golden Buddha statue, a symbol of Chiang Mai's spiritual heart.

Intricate Murals

Intricate Murals

Ordination Hall (Viharn)

Vivid Lanna-style paintings depicting ancient tales and local life.

Golden Stupas

Golden Stupas

Temple Grounds

Shining golden chedis that gleam in the sunlight, offering a majestic sight.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Serenity

Beat the crowds by visiting early morning or late afternoon. Many travelers suggest avoiding midday when tour groups are largest. This allows for a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities.

Dress Respectfully

As a sacred site, modest dress is essential. Cover your shoulders and knees to show respect. Many visitors find this a small price to pay for the spiritual atmosphere.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
During Songkran
Why
Unique ceremonies
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Most beautiful temples in #ChiangMai #Thailand 🇹🇭
@christianbrucki
8.1K likes • 234.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Courtyards

Explore the peaceful grounds and smaller shrines for a truly spiritual experience. Reddit

👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry

Step inside shrines barefoot to show respect and feel the spiritual energy. Reddit

✨ Hidden in temple walls… lies a story of love few expected to find.🌈
Two men, painted centuries ago in quiet intimacy,🎨 inside Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai. 
Could this be more than friendship? Some believe it reflects queer love, a subtle reminder that LGBTQ+ stories have always existed, even in places we least expect. These murals aren’t just art. They are memories.
Proof they existed.
Proof the...
therootsroutes
42 likes • 902 views
✨ The ceremony of inviting Phra Phuttha Sihing from Phra Wihan Lai Kham, Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, onto the Buabok Sri Chiang Mai to bathe in Songkran Festival. ✨ In the afternoon, the procession of Phra Phuttha Sihing will start from San Pa Khoi Intersection, pass Nawarat Bridge, enter Tha Pae Road, pass Tha Pae Gate Square, and end at Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan. Throughout the route, peo...
1672travelbuddy
61 likes • 10.9K views

📸 Capture the Details

The intricate murals and golden accents are stunning photo opportunities. TikTok

🙏 Respectful Attire

Cover shoulders and knees; it's a sacred place. Reddit

Follow @sunny_rung for more travel inspo. POV: I found a hidden gem temple in Chiang Mai 🤯✨ I bet you’ve never seen this temple before… the main hall of Wat Sri Don Moon is filled with golden statues and intricate murals that leave you absolutely speechless. A true hidden gem that feels both sacred and unreal. 💫 📍Wat Sri Don Moon, Saraphi, Chiang Mai 🇹🇭 Save this spot for your next Chiang Mai ...
sunny_rung
205.5K likes • 3.4M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Courtyards

Explore the peaceful grounds and smaller shrines for a truly spiritual experience. Reddit

👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry

Step inside shrines barefoot to show respect and feel the spiritual energy. Reddit

📸 Capture the Details

The intricate murals and golden accents are stunning photo opportunities. TikTok

🙏 Respectful Attire

Cover shoulders and knees; it's a sacred place. Reddit

💧 Visit During Songkran

Witness the special ceremony of inviting Phra Phuttha Sihing. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(16k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Wat Phra Singh for its stunning Lanna architecture, serene atmosphere, and spiritual significance. The intricate murals and golden stupas are frequently highlighted as breathtaking features. While some note it can get busy, the overall experience is described as awe-inspiring and a must-visit for cultural immersion.

"Highly recommend visiting this temple. Inside, there are a few shrines where you can take off your shoes and step inside to look around or worship the gods, which feels very spiritual. This is one of the best temples I’ve visited during my time in Chiang Mai."

Hoang Sang Nguyen

"Wat Phra Singh – A Jewel of Chiang Mai
Wat Phra Singh is one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic temples, famous for its stunning Lanna architecture and the revered Phra Singh Buddha statue. The intricate details, golden accents, and peaceful courtyards create a serene yet awe-inspiring atmosphere. Walking through its halls feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by centuries of history and devotion. A must-visit for anyone seeking culture, beauty, and spiritual energy in the heart of the old city."

Cesar Vasquez

"Beautiful complex of temples situated at walking distance from the Chang Mai centre.
It has some temples dedicated to monks as well as the classics Buddhist temple.
I appreciate in particular the golden "stupas" situated at the back of the main temple.
Worth a visit if you are around!"

Stefano Niespolo

What People Like

Stunning Lanna architecture
Intricate murals
Spiritual atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wat Phra Singh is conveniently located within Chiang Mai's Old City, making it easily accessible. You can walk from many central locations, hire a red songthaew (shared taxi), or use a Grab (ride-sharing app). It's a popular stop on many Chiang Mai temple tours. Reddit

Wat Phra Singh is about a 15-20 minute walk from the Saturday Night Market on Wualai Street and a slightly longer walk from the Sunday Night Market at Tha Pae Gate. It's easily reachable by songthaew or Grab from either market. Reddit

The most common 'public' transport within Chiang Mai are the red songthaews. You can flag one down and negotiate a price to take you to Wat Phra Singh. They operate on set routes but can be hailed like taxis. Reddit

While there might be limited parking nearby, it's generally recommended to walk, use a songthaew, or a Grab, especially if you're exploring the Old City. Parking can be challenging in this area. Reddit

From Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), it's about a 15-20 minute drive to Wat Phra Singh, depending on traffic. You can take a taxi or Grab directly to the temple. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Wat Phra Singh is typically open daily from around 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's advisable to check current hours closer to your visit, as they can sometimes vary. Reddit

Generally, there is no entrance fee to wander the grounds of Wat Phra Singh. However, there might be a small donation requested to enter certain buildings or to view specific artifacts, which is highly encouraged. Reddit

No, tickets are not required for Wat Phra Singh as there is no general admission fee. You can visit anytime during its opening hours. Reddit

To experience the temple's serenity, aim for early morning (shortly after opening) or late afternoon. Midday can be quite busy with tour groups. TikTokReddit

Yes, as a religious site, modest dress is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Avoid revealing clothing. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the revered Phra Singh Buddha statue in Viharn Lai Kham, the stunning murals inside the Ordination Hall, and the beautiful golden stupas on the temple grounds. TikTokReddit

Photography is generally allowed in most outdoor areas and courtyards. However, it's best to be discreet and respectful, especially inside sacred buildings. Some areas might have 'no photography' signs. TikTok

You can spend anywhere from 1 to 2 hours exploring Wat Phra Singh, depending on your interest in the architecture, history, and the peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

While official guides might not always be readily available, you can often find local volunteers or monks willing to share information. Alternatively, consider a guided tour of Chiang Mai's temples that includes Wat Phra Singh. Reddit

The murals are significant for their artistic merit and historical storytelling, depicting ancient Thai folk tales and Lanna culture. Some unique murals have also been noted for their subtle depictions of LGBTQ+ themes. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are typically small market stalls outside the temple selling souvenirs and snacks. For full meals, you'll find numerous restaurants and street food vendors in the surrounding Old City area. Reddit

The area around Wat Phra Singh offers a wide variety of Thai cuisine, from local Northern Thai specialties like Khao Soi to international options. Street food is abundant and delicious. Reddit

Yes, Chiang Mai is very vegetarian and vegan-friendly. You'll find many restaurants offering plant-based options in the Old City, including near Wat Phra Singh. Reddit

You can usually purchase bottled water and other refreshments from vendors located just outside the temple complex. It's always a good idea to stay hydrated, especially in the Chiang Mai heat. Reddit

The Old City is packed with eateries. For local flavors, try restaurants along Tha Pae Road or in the side streets. Many cafes and restaurants cater to tourists and locals alike. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main ordination hall with its intricate murals, the golden stupas, and the serene courtyards offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Phra Singh Buddha statue itself is also a key subject. TikTok

Drone usage is generally not permitted at religious sites like Wat Phra Singh due to privacy and safety concerns. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create a magical glow on the temple structures. TikTok

While outdoor areas are usually fine, be mindful of 'no photography' signs inside sacred buildings, especially near Buddha images or during ceremonies. Always be respectful. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide shots of the complex and details of the architecture and murals. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the interiors. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wat Phra Singh offers a visually stimulating experience for families. The vibrant murals and gleaming golden stupas can capture children's imaginations. Encourage them to spot different animals or characters in the artwork. Remember to explain the importance of quiet and respectful behavior in a temple setting. Reddit

Keep the visit engaging by turning it into a treasure hunt for specific architectural details or statues. The open courtyards provide space for kids to move around, but always supervise them closely. Consider bringing snacks and water, as dining options are mainly outside the temple grounds. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

Wat Phra Singh is a must-visit for solo travelers exploring Chiang Mai's cultural heart. Its central location in the Old City makes it easily accessible on foot or by songthaew. The spiritual atmosphere provides a peaceful respite, perfect for quiet contemplation or journaling. Reddit

Many solo travelers find the temple's intricate details and historical significance fascinating. It's a great place to practice mindfulness or simply soak in the local culture. Don't hesitate to engage with locals or monks if opportunities arise, as many are friendly and happy to share insights. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts

For photographers, Wat Phra Singh is a dream destination. The interplay of light and shadow on the golden stupas, the vibrant colors of the murals, and the architectural details offer endless shooting opportunities. Aim for the golden hour in the late afternoon for the most dramatic lighting. TikTok

Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Lanna-style architecture and the narrative murals. Pay close attention to the unique depictions, including the subtle LGBTQ+ themes that add a layer of historical depth. The serene courtyards and smaller shrines also provide excellent subjects for capturing the temple's tranquil ambiance. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Lanna Architectural Marvel

Wat Phra Singh is a prime example of Lanna architecture, characterized by its elegant, multi-tiered roofs, intricate wood carvings, and ornate decorative elements. The main assembly hall, or viharn, is particularly striking, often adorned with vibrant murals that tell stories from Buddhist scriptures and local folklore. The temple's design emphasizes harmony with its natural surroundings, creating a sense of peace and tranquility.

Visitors often marvel at the golden stupas (chedi) that dot the temple grounds. These bell-shaped structures are iconic to Thai Buddhist temples and house relics or serve as monuments. The sheer craftsmanship and the way they catch the sunlight are a significant draw for photographers and those appreciating fine art. The overall atmosphere is one of reverence and historical depth, making it a captivating experience for anyone interested in Thai culture and history. Reddit

Beyond the main structures, the temple complex includes smaller shrines, monastic residences, and peaceful courtyards. These areas offer a glimpse into the daily life of monks and the ongoing spiritual practices. The Phra Singh Buddha statue itself, housed in Viharn Lai Kham, is a highly revered image, drawing devotees and admirers alike. Its historical significance and artistic beauty make it a central point of interest within the temple. Instagram

Uncovering Hidden Stories in the Murals

The murals within Wat Phra Singh are not just decorative; they are narrative masterpieces. Painted by Thai and Chinese artists, these artworks bring ancient Thai folk tales and Buddhist teachings to life with remarkable detail and color. They offer a visual journey through the region's cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs, providing a unique window into the past. Instagram

One of the most talked-about aspects of these murals is the discovery of subtle depictions of same-sex intimacy between male figures. These findings have led to interpretations that suggest a more open and accepting attitude towards LGBTQ+ individuals in the Lanna kingdom than previously understood. This aspect adds a layer of historical intrigue and social commentary to the temple's artistic legacy, making it a site of interest for those exploring diverse historical narratives. Instagram

Exploring these murals requires a keen eye and a willingness to look beyond the obvious. They are a testament to the artistic skill of the era and a reminder that stories of love and human connection have always existed, even in the most unexpected places. The subtle artistry invites contemplation and discussion, making a visit to Wat Phra Singh a richer, more thought-provoking experience. Instagram

Wat Phra Singh During Festivals

Wat Phra Singh holds significant cultural importance, especially during major Thai festivals. One of the most notable events is the Songkran Festival, the Thai New Year. During this time, a special ceremony takes place to invite the revered Phra Phuttha Sihing statue from Viharn Lai Kham onto a procession through the city. Instagram

The procession is a vibrant spectacle, often starting from San Pa Khoi Intersection, passing through key city landmarks like Nawarat Bridge and Tha Pae Gate, before concluding back at Wat Phra Singh. Throughout the route, locals and tourists alike participate in bathing the Buddha image, a ritual believed to bring good fortune for the year ahead. This event transforms the temple and its surroundings into a lively hub of cultural celebration. Instagram

Beyond Songkran, the temple is a focal point for other Buddhist observances and local ceremonies. Visiting during these times offers a unique opportunity to witness traditional Thai practices and experience the community's deep spiritual connection to the temple. However, be prepared for larger crowds and a more festive, energetic atmosphere. Instagram

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