Wat Phra That Doi Kham

Wat Phra That Doi Kham is a spectacular temple located on the lush mountain slopes, just 13kms south-west from the Chiang Mai Old City.

The name ‘Wat Phra That’ represents that it is home to precious relics and artefacts of Buddha and ‘Doi Kham’ translates to the ‘Golden Hillside’ in the local dialect.

Wat Phra That Doi Kham Buddhist Temple & Dress Code Chiang Mai, Thailand

Wat Phra That Doi Kham is believed to have been built in the year 687 and is home to a large, 17-metre high statue of Buddha. There are also gold Naga serpents which guard the stairs of the pagoda and the chedi enshrines a sacred relic of Buddha. The pagoda encircles a big relic of Buddha and is also said to house some of Buddha’s hair.

In 1966, torrential rains saw the destruction of the temple, however, the locals came together to fundraise and renovate the temple to what it is today.

As you walk through the courtyard, you will notice many smaller statues of Buddha with prayer boxes where you can make a donation. There are also bells which visitors are permitted to strike. Come at sunrise or sunset and enjoy the beautiful views. There is an elevator which you can take to the top, or you can climb the 300 stairs to the top.

As with all temples in Thailand, visitors must ensure they are dressed respectfully. This includes covering knees, shoulders and midriffs.

You can get to the temple by taking a scooter, Uber or red truck (songthaew). An Uber will cost less than 100 THB and a songthaew will cost around 150 THB. Once you get to the base of the mountain, there is a sign in black and gold indicating cars to travel left and walkers taking the stairs travel right.

Best to arrange a return journey wit your driver, 1 hour at the temple is sufficient. As you are nearby, arrange a full day trip and check out the Royal Park Rajapruek which is located just 5 minutes away. Then you can head to the Night Safari which is also nearby.