Wat Phra That Doi Ngam Muang
A serene 14th-century temple housing King Mengrai's ashes and Thailand's first Emerald Buddha, known for its intricate wood carvings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Wat Phra That Doi Ngam Muang
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 14th-century temple housing King Mengrai's ashes and Thailand's first Emerald Buddha, known for its intricate wood carvings.
"Amazing wood carving works which is just amazing. The main door is also very remarkable."
🎯 Climb Smart
The hill and steps can be challenging in heat. Visit early or late to make the climb more comfortable.
✨ Admire the Artistry
Don't miss the incredible wood carvings on the main doors and pillars; they are truly amazing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
King Mengrai's Ashes
Main temple area
Pay respects at the sacred site containing the ashes of Chiang Rai's founder, a place of local reverence.
Intricate Wood Carvings
Main doors and pillars
Marvel at the stunning, detailed woodwork adorning the temple's entrance and interior structures.
Emerald Buddha Statue
Main temple
See the historically significant first Emerald Buddha statue in Thailand, a truly remarkable sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Climb Smart
The hill and steps can be challenging in heat. Visit early or late to make the climb more comfortable.
✨ Admire the Artistry
Don't miss the incredible wood carvings on the main doors and pillars; they are truly amazing.
🧘♀️ Find Serenity
This peaceful temple is ideal for meditation, with very few tourists making it a tranquil escape.
🚗 Grab is Your Friend
Solo travelers can use Grab to reach this temple, but arrange your return trip in advance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Climb Smart
The hill and steps can be challenging in heat. Visit early or late to make the climb more comfortable.
✨ Admire the Artistry
Don't miss the incredible wood carvings on the main doors and pillars; they are truly amazing.
🧘♀️ Find Serenity
This peaceful temple is ideal for meditation, with very few tourists making it a tranquil escape.
🚗 Grab is Your Friend
Solo travelers can use Grab to reach this temple, but arrange your return trip in advance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Phra That Doi Ngam Muang for its peaceful atmosphere, intricate wood carvings, and historical significance, particularly its connection to King Mengrai and the first Emerald Buddha. Some note the climb can be challenging in the heat, and occasionally the main Buddha may be closed.
"14th century temple (wat) with the ashes of King Mangrai, the founder of both Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. A very pleasant location for meditation. Also, amazing wood work on the main doors and pillars. Wow! Also, amulets are available. Highly recommended! #travelthailand"
William “บุญ” Sparks
"Perched on top of a hill with (what feels like a 101 ) steps ( after the hill).. only to arrive at the top gate and see the temple with a golden Buddha closed.. squirrels running in the trees.. and an empty courtyard.. and a radio blaring somewhere. This temple is out of the way (albeit in the town limits). Perhaps less aspiring than other temples.. and with the hill and steps to climb to get to the top.. understandable if you do think twice about visiting in the heat of of day.
Another temple visit done. Check."
B. F. G.
"This old temple is located on a hilltop with very good scenery. Here’s very peaceful and quiet since very few tourists make their way to this temple. There are old wood carving works which is just amazing. The main door is also very remarkable
There are also good and cheap restaurants nearby"
Aman Askarizad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Phra That Doi Ngam Muang is located on a hilltop within Chiang Rai city limits, but can feel a bit out of the way. For solo travelers without a car, using a ride-sharing app like Grab is a convenient option. While packages might include it, you can arrange a direct trip to avoid unwanted activities.
It's advisable to arrange your return transportation in advance, especially if visiting during off-peak hours or when fewer tourists are around. Confirm with your Grab driver or consider pre-booking a return trip.
While possible, Wat Phra That Doi Ngam Muang is located in Chiang Rai. A day trip from Chiang Mai would be very long and rushed, as it's a significant distance. It's best visited when you are already in or near Chiang Rai.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding entrance fees is not widely available, suggesting it may be free to enter. However, it's always a good idea to have some small change on hand for potential donations or offerings.
Specific opening hours are not consistently published. Given it's a place of worship, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, some reviews mention the main Buddha being closed at times, so it's best to visit during standard temple visiting times.
Yes, amulets are available for purchase at the temple. This is a common practice at many Thai temples, offering visitors a chance to acquire a sacred item.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temple offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for meditation. Take your time to admire the intricate wood carvings and the historical significance of the site.
Fortunately, this temple is not as heavily visited as some other popular sites, meaning you can often enjoy a quiet and serene experience.
This 14th-century temple is significant as it contains the ashes of King Mengrai, the founder of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. It also houses the first Emerald Buddha statue in Thailand.
Most visitors find that 30-45 minutes is sufficient for a visit, allowing time to see the main attractions and soak in the atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, reviews mention that there are good and cheap restaurants located nearby the temple, offering convenient dining options after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on capturing the detailed wood carvings on the main doors and pillars, the serene temple grounds, and the historical Emerald Buddha statue. The hilltop location also offers pleasant scenery.
While generally allowed, it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially near sacred areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧘 Solo Travelers
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Historical Significance
Beyond its connection to royalty, the temple is also noted for housing the first Emerald Buddha statue in Thailand. This detail adds another layer to its historical and religious significance, making it a unique destination for those seeking to understand the evolution of Buddhism and art in the country. The combination of royal lineage and religious artistry makes Wat Phra That Doi Ngam Muang a compelling stop for a deeper cultural experience.
Architectural and Artistic Details
Beyond the woodwork, the main doors themselves are described as remarkable, likely featuring unique motifs or construction. The overall exterior and interior of the temple are noted for their phenomenal detail, suggesting a rich aesthetic experience. Even the presence of squirrels and a distant radio contribute to a unique, if sometimes quirky, atmosphere that travelers have observed.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit