Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple), Chiang Mai - a building that has a lot of statues on it
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Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple) Chiang Mai

4.5
·4k reviews·, Thailand

Chiang Mai's breathtaking Silver Temple, entirely adorned in shimmering silver, offering a unique Lanna architectural marvel.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Appreciate silver details

CrowdMedium
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Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple), Chiang Mai - a building that has a lot of statues on it

Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple) Chiang Mai

Best Time

Daytime

Appreciate silver details

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Chiang Mai's breathtaking Silver Temple, entirely adorned in shimmering silver, offering a unique Lanna architectural marvel.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"A truly unique temple, unlike any other in Thailand, with incredible silver craftsmanship."

Vertical photo
TIP

Respect the Dress Code

Cover shoulders and knees before entering temple grounds. :dress:

Women's Entry Restrictions

Women cannot enter the main silver hall. Admire from outside or view digital screens. :woman:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Entirely Silver Ubosot

The Entirely Silver Ubosot

Main Ordination Hall

A breathtaking Lanna-style hall meticulously covered in shimmering silver and aluminum, adorned with intricate carvings.

Intricate Silver Craftsmanship

Intricate Silver Craftsmanship

Temple Exterior and Interior Details

Marvel at the detailed artistry, from the roof and walls to the floor, showcasing stories of Buddhism and Thai culture.

Evening Illumination

Evening Illumination

Temple Grounds

Witness the temple transform after dark as it glows with vibrant, colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

Planning Your Visit

Silver Temple's Unique Entry Rules

Understand that women are not permitted inside the main silver ordination hall due to religious customs. While you can admire the exterior, men can enter. Plan your visit accordingly and respect the dress code: cover shoulders and knees. Instagram+1

Best Times to Experience the Shine

Visit during the day to appreciate the intricate silver craftsmanship up close, and return at night to see the temple illuminated with colorful lights. Combining your visit with the nearby Saturday Night Market is a popular choice. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Appreciate silver details
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening (after 7:30 PM)
Why
See the light show
Crowd
Medium
When
Saturday evenings
Why
Combine with night market
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨ Must-Visit Spots in Chiang Mai ✨ 1️⃣ Wat Ket Karam Temple 🏯 A breathtaking temple made entirely of silver! Entrance fee: only 50 THB. 2️⃣ Thapae Road 🌟 Step into Chiang Mai’s history at the iconic Thapae Gate. Stroll through a street filled with local street food, desserts, and charming craft shops. 3️⃣ Night Bazaar 🎶 Feel the energy of the city! Explore a lively market with local musicians, art...
@kristina3535
12.4K likes • 168.7K views

Respect the Dress Code

Cover shoulders and knees before entering temple grounds. :dress: Instagram

Women's Entry Restrictions

Women cannot enter the main silver hall. Admire from outside or view digital screens. :woman: InstagramReddit

Wat Sri Suphan Monastery Opening Hours : Sunday to Friday 06.00 - 18.00, Saturday 06.00 - 23.00. Admission Charge : 50 ฿/ Person Parking Fee : None Location : Hai Ya Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. 🇹🇭 Wat Sri Suphan Monastery also be called The Silver Temple because the entire surface of the temple is being covered in sparkling silver handcrafted decoration. Must visi...
charat_victualio
0 likes • 10.5K views
Wat Sri Suphan, the breathtaking Silver Temple of Chiang Mai 🩶✨ One of our favourite temples in Thailand 🇹🇭 so unique and so incredibly beautiful! ✨ 50thb to enter - women are not allowed inside of the temple but males are 🩶✨ Definitely save this video for your next visit to Thailand and do not skip this temple ✨ #thailand #travel #chiangmai #temple #thingstodo #placestovisit #travelvlog
kowanderlust
19 likes • 332 views

Affordable Entry Fee

Only 50 THB admission, often includes a small gift like a keychain or water. :ticket: Instagram+1

Day & Night Visit

See the temple's beauty in daylight and its magical glow at night. :flashlight: 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

Respect the Dress Code

Cover shoulders and knees before entering temple grounds. :dress: Instagram

Women's Entry Restrictions

Women cannot enter the main silver hall. Admire from outside or view digital screens. :woman: InstagramReddit

Affordable Entry Fee

Only 50 THB admission, often includes a small gift like a keychain or water. :ticket: Instagram+1

Day & Night Visit

See the temple's beauty in daylight and its magical glow at night. :flashlight: Reddit

Explore Silver Workshops

Discover local silversmiths and their craft in the surrounding Hai Ya neighborhood. :hammerandwrench: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently amazed by the unique beauty of Wat Sri Suphan, the 'Silver Temple,' praising its intricate silver craftsmanship and the magical evening illumination. While the 50 THB entry fee is considered a great value, the restriction on women entering the main ordination hall is a notable point of discussion. InstagramReddit+1

"Beautiful silver temple. We went at night about 30 minutes before they closed so we didn’t really get to see the full thing but we were leaving the next day so we went anyway. It was 50 baht per person for the entry. We were given the orange flower thing from a Buddha and my husband went into the temple (men only)."

Christine Aaron

"Silver Temple. 50 bhat per person entry free. Men only, no women inside the silver temple. Women can view the outside only. We went 1 hr before they closed, but the museum also closed early. It was still beautiful. Women can enter the first temple located outside the gate."

mm bop

"I recently visited Wat Sri Suphan, also known as the Silver Temple, in Chiang Mai. Getting there was really easy. I was staying inside the Old City, so I decided to walk, it took me about 15 minutes. But if you prefer, you can grab a tuk-tuk or a songthaew for a quick ride, and it’s very affordable. The entrance fee was 50 THB (around 1.40 USD), which included a small keychain and a bottle of water. The ticket was valid all day, so I could leave and come back later to see the temple illuminated at night. As soon as I stepped inside, I was amazed by the beauty of the place. The ordination hall is entirely covered in silver and aluminum, with intricate carvings that tell stories of Buddhism, Thai culture, and even daily life. The craftsmanship is breathtakin, I spent a long time just looking at the details. One important thing to know: women are not allowed to enter the ordination hall (Ubosot) due to religious tradition. They can still admire the temple from outside, which is equally stunning, and there are digital screens nearby where you can see the interior. Regarding dress code, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees before entering. Shoes must be removed before stepping into temple areas, as is common in Thailand. What I really loved was the atmosphere. In the evenings, the temple glows with colorful lights, and since it’s close to the Saturday Night Market, you can easily combine both experiences. During the day, you can also join monk chats, learn about meditation, or even watch local silversmiths working in the nearby workshops. Overall, Wat Sri Suphan felt very unique compared to other temples I visited in Chiang Mai. It’s a small temple, but the artistry and history make it truly special. If you’re exploring the city, don’t miss it, go both during the day and at night if you can. It’s worth every moment!"

Andy Arratiav

What People Like

Stunning silver artistry
Magical evening lights
Affordable entry fee

What People Dislike

Women's entry restriction

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wat Sri Suphan is easily accessible. If you're staying within Chiang Mai's Old City, it's a pleasant 15-minute walk. Alternatively, affordable options like tuk-tuks or songthaews are readily available for a quick ride. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is no parking fee for visitors at Wat Sri Suphan, making it convenient for those arriving by private transport. Instagram

From Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), you can take a taxi or a Grab car directly to Wat Sri Suphan. The journey is relatively short and convenient. TikTok

Yes, it's a walkable distance from Thapae Gate, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. It's a great way to see more of the city. Instagram

Songthaews, the red shared taxis common in Chiang Mai, can take you close to Wat Sri Suphan. Just tell your driver the destination. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee is 50 THB per person. This often includes a small souvenir like a keychain or a bottle of water. Instagram+1

No, women are not permitted to enter the main ordination hall (Ubosot) due to religious traditions. They can admire the exterior and surrounding areas. InstagramReddit+1

The temple is generally open from Sunday to Friday between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. On Saturdays, it stays open later, until 11:00 PM, and often features a light show. Instagram

Yes, visitors must dress respectfully. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Shoes must be removed before entering temple buildings. Instagram

The 50 THB ticket is typically valid all day, allowing you to visit during daylight hours and return to see the temple illuminated at night. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Its most striking feature is that the entire ordination hall is covered in intricate silver and aluminum craftsmanship, making it a truly unique 'Silver Temple'. Instagram+1

Photography is generally allowed in the temple grounds and of the exterior. However, women cannot enter the main hall, so interior photos are limited to what men can capture. Instagram

Yes, you can participate in monk chats, learn about meditation, and observe or even try crafting silver in the nearby workshops in the Hai Ya artisan area. Reddit

The silver work depicts Buddhist stories, Thai culture, and daily life, showcasing exceptional artistry and a connection to the local silver artisan community. InstagramReddit

While small, the temple's unique artistry warrants time to appreciate. A visit of 1-2 hours is recommended, especially if you plan to see it both day and night. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants directly within the temple premises. However, the surrounding Hai Ya area and nearby markets offer a wide variety of local Thai food options. Reddit

The area around Wat Sri Suphan, particularly the Hai Ya district, is known for its silver artisans and local eateries. You'll find street food and small restaurants serving authentic Thai cuisine. Reddit

Often, the entrance fee includes a small bottle of water. There might be vendors selling light snacks or drinks near the temple entrance. Instagram

Absolutely! The Saturday Night Market is a fantastic place to sample a huge array of street food, from local delicacies to international snacks. Reddit

Look for Khao Soi (curry noodle soup), Sai Oua (Northern Thai sausage), and various grilled meats and sticky rice dishes popular in Chiang Mai. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the intricate silver details from various angles outside the main hall, the illuminated temple at night, and the surrounding artisan workshops. Instagram+1

It's generally acceptable to photograph the temple architecture and general ambiance. Always be respectful and ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially monks or locals engaged in activities. Reddit

For capturing the silver's sheen and intricate details, daytime is best. For dramatic shots, visit during the evening light show. Instagram

Using drones is generally not permitted at temples in Thailand without special permits due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to avoid flying drones here. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for both wide shots and details. A tripod can be helpful for low-light evening shots, but be mindful of crowds. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wat Sri Suphan offers a unique visual experience that can captivate children with its shimmering silver. While women cannot enter the main hall, the exterior is still impressive. The 50 THB entry fee is very reasonable for families, and the included small gift can be a nice surprise for kids. Instagram+1

Consider visiting during the day when children might be more energetic. The surrounding Hai Ya area also offers opportunities to see local crafts, which can be interesting for older children. Be mindful of the dress code, ensuring children are also dressed respectfully with covered shoulders and knees. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Wat Sri Suphan is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. The entrance fee is a mere 50 THB, making it one of the most affordable attractions in Chiang Mai. Instagram+1

Combine your visit with walking from the Old City or using affordable songthaews. You can also easily pair it with exploring the nearby Hai Ya artisan district or the bustling Saturday Night Market for inexpensive local food and souvenirs, maximizing your experience without breaking the bank. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Silver Temple is a photographer's dream, offering unique subjects. Focus on the intricate silver carvings during the day, capturing the textures and details. The temple's illumination at night provides dramatic opportunities for low-light photography. Instagram+1

Remember the gender-specific entry rules for the main hall. While men can photograph the interior, women will need to rely on exterior shots and the temple's ambiance. The surrounding silver workshops also offer interesting cultural photography subjects. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Silver

Wat Sri Suphan is renowned as the 'Silver Temple' for a very good reason: its main ordination hall, the Ubosot, is almost entirely covered in meticulously crafted silver and aluminum. This isn't just a decorative facade; the intricate carvings depict scenes from Buddhist teachings, local folklore, and everyday life in Chiang Mai. The artistry extends to the roof, walls, and even parts of the floor, showcasing the skill of local silversmiths. Instagram+1

This unique architectural style is deeply connected to the Hai Ya district, historically known as the 'Silver Artisans' area. Visitors can explore nearby workshops to witness the traditional methods of silver crafting firsthand. This provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural heritage that inspired and built the temple, making it more than just a place of worship but a living testament to local artistry. Reddit

While the exterior is a marvel, it's important to remember the religious significance. The temple's construction and decoration are a form of devotion, and the silver itself is believed to hold spiritual properties. The combination of artistic beauty and spiritual depth makes Wat Sri Suphan a truly captivating destination. Instagram

Understanding Temple Etiquette and Traditions

Visiting Wat Sri Suphan requires an understanding of local customs and religious traditions. The most notable rule is that women are not permitted to enter the main silver ordination hall (Ubosot). This is a long-standing tradition rooted in Buddhist practices and is not meant to be discriminatory but rather to uphold specific religious protocols. Visitors are encouraged to respect this rule and admire the temple's beauty from the outside. InstagramReddit+1

Beyond the specific entry restrictions, general temple etiquette applies. Visitors must dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered. This applies to both men and women. Shoes must be removed before entering any temple building. These practices are common across most Buddhist temples in Thailand and show respect for the sacred space. Instagram

For those interested in deeper cultural engagement, Wat Sri Suphan offers opportunities for 'monk chat' sessions, where you can converse with monks and learn about Buddhism and meditation. This provides a unique chance to connect with the spiritual side of the temple and gain insights from those who dedicate their lives to it. Reddit

Experiencing Wat Sri Suphan Day and Night

To fully appreciate Wat Sri Suphan, it's highly recommended to visit at two different times: during the day and after sunset. By day, you can meticulously examine the intricate silver carvings and appreciate the craftsmanship up close. The sunlight highlights the textures and details of the silver work, allowing you to truly marvel at the artistry. Instagram

As evening approaches, the temple undergoes a magical transformation. It becomes illuminated with colorful lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle. This evening display is particularly popular and often accompanied by a light show, especially on Saturdays. The glowing temple against the night sky offers a completely different, yet equally stunning, perspective. InstagramReddit

Many visitors find that combining a daytime visit with an evening exploration provides the most comprehensive and memorable experience. This allows you to witness both the detailed artistry in natural light and the enchanting ambiance created by the illuminations. Reddit

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