Wat Khuan Khama

Wat Khuan Khama is the Golden Horse Temple on Sri Poom Road, just inside Chiang Mai’s northern Old City moat. Golden horse statues at the entrance and along the wall make it easy to recognise, while the compact grounds offer a quiet stop between Chang Phuak Gate and the northwest Old City.

The horse theme is the temple’s defining feature, but a visit also includes its religious buildings, chedi and devotional images. Allow a little time inside the compound rather than taking a roadside photograph and moving straight on.

The Golden Horses and Their Story

The large horse figures beside the entrance introduce the theme before you enter. Smaller figures continue along the wall, giving the temple a visual identity distinct from the naga and lion imagery commonly noticed at other Chiang Mai temples.

Local tradition connects the name with a horse owner who dedicated land for a temple in memory of beloved horses. The story expresses appreciation for animals that once supported travel and trade. The account forms part of the temple’s local naming tradition.

Other animal figures around the grounds add to the decorative interest. Take photographs from the paths without climbing on the wall or touching sacred objects. Keep the gate clear for worshippers and people working at the temple.

The Halls, Chedi and Buddha Images

The layered roof and gilded decoration of the religious buildings reward a closer look once you have passed the horses. Compare the roofline, gable and entrance details with the chedi, which gives the compound a different form and focus.

Buddha images and smaller shrines are part of the temple’s active worship. Where a hall is open, remove shoes as directed and enter quietly. Avoid stepping into areas reserved for monastic ceremonies, and give anyone making offerings room to use the shrine.

The temple also has a long connection with Lanna religious art. An inscription associated with a bronze Buddha image dates to 1500 and records its creation as an act of devotion. This inscription adds a further link with Lanna craftsmanship and Buddhist devotion.

Planning a Short Visit

The usual published visiting hours are 8am to 5pm daily, with free general admission. Around 20 to 40 minutes can suit a circuit of the grounds and a look inside any accessible hall. Religious activities can change access to individual buildings.

Wear clothing covering shoulders and knees, speak quietly and remove shoes where indicated. Ask before photographing people, including monks, and avoid flash inside. Children may enjoy spotting the horses, but the grounds remain a place of worship.

Morning or late afternoon can make the walk more comfortable. Ask about steps and the easiest permitted route if you need level access.

Getting to Wat Khuan Khama

The address is 143 Sri Poom Road, Si Phum, Chiang Mai 50200. The temple is on the inner side of the northern moat, west of Chang Phuak Gate. Follow Sri Poom Road towards Wat Rajamontean and look for the golden horses at the entrance.

Wat Lok Molee is nearby on the outside of the moat and makes a useful companion stop. They are separate temples on opposite sides of the busy road system, so choose a safe crossing rather than walking directly through traffic between them.

Walk from the northern Old City or show your driver the temple name and Sri Poom Road location. Confirm the fare before boarding where appropriate.

Wat Khuan Khama FAQs

Why is it called the Golden Horse Temple?
Golden horse figures stand at the entrance and along the wall. They connect with a local tradition about a horse owner donating land for a temple in memory of beloved horses.

Where is Wat Khuan Khama?
It is at 143 Sri Poom Road in Si Phum, on the inner side of the north moat west of Chang Phuak Gate. The golden horses help identify the entrance.

How much does it cost to visit?
General admission is free. Donations are optional, and visitors should follow the temple’s instructions about access to particular halls and worship areas.

How long should you spend there?
Around 20 to 40 minutes suits a short circuit and a look inside an open hall. The published visiting window is 8am to 5pm, with building access dependent on religious activities.

Can you combine it with Wat Lok Molee?
Wat Lok Molee is nearby on the outside of the moat. You can include both in a north-moat walk, allowing time to cross the busy road safely between the two areas.