Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is one of the holiest Buddhist Temples in Northern Thailand. Its location overlooks Chiang Mai City from the mountain slopes.
Chiang Mai Temples
Chiang Mai is famous for its stunning temples, many of which date back hundreds of years to the ancient Lanna Kingdom. With ornate golden stupas, intricate wood carvings and peaceful monastery grounds, the temples of Chiang Mai are among the city’s most important cultural and spiritual attractions.
Visitors can explore historic temples throughout the Old City as well as mountain-top shrines and forest monasteries hidden among the surrounding hills.
Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai & Pai Temples, Top, Best & Must See
The most iconic temple in Northern Thailand is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched high on Doi Suthep mountain overlooking the city. Founded in the 14th century, this sacred temple is one of Thailand’s most important pilgrimage sites. Visitors climb a long staircase lined with colourful naga serpent statues before reaching the temple complex, where golden chedis, intricate murals and panoramic views over Chiang Mai await. The temple is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the city below is bathed in soft light.
Another must-visit temple is Wat Chedi Luang, located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City. The temple is known for its enormous partially ruined chedi, which was once the tallest structure in the ancient Lanna Kingdom. Although damaged by an earthquake centuries ago, the remaining structure remains one of the city’s most impressive historical landmarks. Visitors can also explore the surrounding prayer halls, Buddha statues and peaceful temple courtyards.
Nearby, Wat Phra Singh is another of the city’s most revered temples. Famous for its elegant Lanna-style architecture and detailed gold decorations, the temple houses the highly respected Phra Singh Buddha image. The beautifully restored viharn and intricate wood carvings make this temple one of the finest examples of traditional Northern Thai craftsmanship.
Travellers looking for a quieter temple experience often visit Wat Umong, a forest temple located south-west of the Old City. Surrounded by trees and peaceful walking paths, Wat Umong is famous for its ancient tunnels built beneath the temple grounds. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a popular spot for meditation and reflection away from the busier tourist areas.
Another unique attraction is Wat Suan Dok, known for its large golden chedi and rows of white mausoleums that contain the ashes of former Northern Thai royalty. The temple is also a popular place for monk chats, where visitors can speak with Buddhist monks to learn more about Thai culture and religion.
With hundreds of temples spread throughout Chiang Mai and the surrounding mountains, visitors are never far from an important spiritual site.
Whether admiring ancient architecture, learning about Buddhist traditions or enjoying peaceful surroundings, Chiang Mai’s temples remain among the region’s most unforgettable attractions.
Wat Chedi Luang is one of the many Buddhist temples that dot Chiang Mai City, and which seeks to direct devout locals and foreigners to enlightenment.
Wat Phra Singh ranks as one of the most revered temples in the northern parts of Thailand. Consequently, it attracts visitors from all over the world.
Wat Rong Khun is not the typical Buddhist temple. Popularly known as the White Temple, this unique sanctuary is the highlight of temple tours in Chiang Rai.
Wat Phra Kaew is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai and was built sometime in the 14th Century. The date of construction of the temple is unknown, but the original name was “Wat Pa Yeah” (Bamboo Forest...
Sacred Heart Cathedral is a unique attraction in its own right for the simple reason that it is a church nestled in a land where Buddhism is predominant.
Wat Phra Singh Chiang Rai one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai, having been built by the Lanna people in 1385. The temple is located right in the centre of town, just 1km north of the popular Night Bazaar and is easy...
Wat Chiang Man stands out as one of Chiang Mai’s most remarkable temples simply because it is the oldest Wat in the city, yet still stands strong.
Wat Suan Dok is believed to have been constructed in the 14th century under the reign of King Keu Na who ruled over the ancient Lanna Kingdom.
Wat Pan Tao is a small but very interesting temple, especially for visitors who are thrilled by Thailand’s unique heritage and religious framework.
Wat Umong, in full, Wat Umong Suan Puthatham, is an old temple nestled in Chiang Mai in the northern parts of Thailand. Locals also refer to it as Oomong.
Wat Pha Lat is one of the most magical temples in Chiang Mai. That’s because unlike others, it’s nestled in the lush forests and you’ll have to take a short but rewarding hike to get there. Unlike...
Wat Huay Pla Kang is a famous temple just outside the city centre of Chiang Rai; one of the most popular, and frequently visited temples by both tourists and locals. It gets its name from the 9-storied pagoda which...
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang is a temple that was founded in the 13th century and some buildings were constructed in the 15th century. The temple was built in honour of Buddha who it is said visited the site 2,500 years...
Wat Phra That Doi Kham is a spectacular temple located on the lush mountain slopes just close to Chiang Mai town. It is a popular tourist attraction too.
Wat Ram Poeng, also known as Tapotaram, is a meditation retreat for visitors who would like to tap into the power of meditation during their travels.
Wiang Kum Kam is an ancient settlement of historical importance in Thailand as it is not just a rich archaeological site, but also a popular attraction.
Wat Mahawan is a must-visit prime tourist attraction located close to the old walled city of Chiang Mai, right next to the popular Tha Phae Gate.
Wat Lok Molee, also known as Wat Lok Moli, is a temple located in the old Chiang Mai city, just about half a kilometre from the famous Chang Phuak gate.
Wat Chet Yot, also known to the locals as Wat Jed Yod, is a beautiful temple nestled in Chiang Mai’s serene surroundings, and a popular tourist attraction.
Chiang Rai Black Temple is one of those temples that you tour when you want to go off the beaten track in Thailand; and it rarely disappoints.
Wat Rong Suea Ten Temple (also known as the Blue Temple) is a little known temple located just north of the Kok River in Chiang Rai. Wat Rong Suea Ten, Blue Temple Dress Code, Chiang Rai Built in 2005, the temple takes...
The Wat Chai Si Phum is a beautiful historic temple located on the edge of Chiang Mai’s old city. It’s most famous feature is the stunning, intricately carved golden facade. Although it’s one of the...
Wat Chiang Yuen is a unique 16th-century temple in an area of Chiang Mai, which served as the residential area of the Shan people in the past. Also known as the ‘Temple of Long Life’, it is widely believed...
Wat Chomphu is a lovely Buddhist temple found just outside the Old City of Chiang Mai. This temple is famous for its intricate golden chedi (which can be seen in many other wats), although this one is worth visiting for...
Wat Ou Sai Kham is a small Buddhist temple located just outside the historic walled town centre in Chiang Mai. Also known as The Temple of Golden Sand, the temple features a viharn, a Ho Trai scripture library, an...
Wat Sai Moon Myanmar is a colourful historic Burmese temple located in the old city of Chiang Mai. It was built by the Burmese king Bayinnaung after he successfully conquered Chiang Mai back in 1558, so don’t mind...
The Wat Puak Hong is an ancient temple located on Samlan Soi 7 in Chiang Mai. The temple’s origins are unknown, but it is assumed that it was erected sometime during the 16th or 17th century, with its name meaning...
Wat Prasat is a stunning, unique temple complex in Chiang Mai. Located within the old walled city, the temple is right across the equally famous Wat Phra Singh. The ancient temple was erected sometime during the end of...
Wat Duang Dee is an early 16th-century temple in Chiang Mai; located on Phra Pok Klao Road in the heart of the old walled city. The temple’s name translates to ‘Good Luck Temple’, and features an...
The Wat Dab Pai is a small temple located in the north-western corner of Chiang Mai’s old walled city. It is known as the temple that can end suffering, although in the past it was called Wat A-Pai, after a monk...
Wat Chom Tong is a beautiful temple nestled about 60kms to the south of Chiang Mai. The temple is also referred to as the Chom Tong Meditation Center.
Wat Ku Tao is an outstanding temple whose ancient roots and rich history make it a treasured travel destination for Thais as well as international tourists.
Wat Sri Suphan, also known as the silver temple, is located close to the Wualai Street Market. This makes it a must-visit tourist attraction in Chiang Mai.
The Ban Ho Mosque is an iconic mosque located near the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. It is revered for being one of the largest mosques in Chiang Mai, and it is also one of the only 7 mosques in the whole province. The...
The Wat Bupparam is a famous temple in Chiang Mai. Ornate dacor and evident Burmese influences are what set this temple apart from the others. It’s one of the most frequently visited temples here, found on Thapae...
Wat Chai Mongkhon is an impressive Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai. It’s one of the top temples to visit in the area and is steeped in a rich, colourful history. The temple has numerous exciting details to discover...
The Wat Chedi Liam is one of Chiang Mai’s most beautiful temples. Also known as the Chedi Ku Kham, this magnificent 13th-century Buddhist temple was built by King Mengrai of back when Chiang Mai was part of the...
The Wat Fa Ham is a beautiful temple found on the eastern banks of the Maenam Ping river in Chiang Mai. Although small, this temple is one of the most intricately adorned, and features numerous interesting little...
Wat Mahawan is a beautiful temple designed with Lanna and Burmese influences. Located just outside the old walled city of Chiang Mai, this temple features many incredible, intricate carvings of mythical creatures. Wat...
What are the most popular temples to visit in Chiang Mai?
The most popular temples to visit in Chiang Mai are:Check out the whole list of temples in Chiang Mai.
Where are the most popular temples in Chiang Mai located?
The most popular temples to visit in Chiang Mai are:
- Suthep
- Si Phum
- Pa O Don Chai
- Wiang
- Chang Khlan