


Ganesha Hindu Temple
Situated on Charoen Prathet Road in Chiang Mai's Chang Khlan area, this Hindu temple stands as a distinctive spiritual landmark in a city predominantly associated with Buddhist culture. Dedicated to Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity revered across Hindu traditions as a remover of obstacles, the temple serves both the local Hindu community and visitors drawn to Thailand's broader religious diversity. Its presence speaks to Chiang Mai's multicultural character and offers a genuinely different cultural encounter within easy reach of the city centre. Inside, visitors can expect a serene and contemplative atmosphere, with traditional Hindu iconography, ceremonial offerings, and architectural details that set it apart from the surrounding urban streetscape. The temple is an active place of worship, lending it an authenticity that purely tourist-facing sites often lack. Those with an interest in comparative religion, South Asian cultural history, or simply a quieter moment of reflection will find it rewarding. A practical note: official opening hours are not listed online, so visiting during daylight hours on a weekday is the safest approach. As with all religious sites in Thailand, modest dress is expected — shoulders and knees should be covered out of respect for worshippers. The temple's location near the Ping River and the Night Bazaar area makes it straightforward to combine with wider exploration of the Chang Khlan district.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Ganesha Hindu Temple, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Location Info
3 14-15 Charoen Prathet Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50100, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)
Where to stay near Ganesha Hindu Temple
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Also Popular in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
A sprawling nightly market on Changklan Road blending street food, local crafts, and lively atmosphere.

Central Chiangmai
Chiang Mai's largest modern mall, with two food halls, designer boutiques, and a grocery store along the superhighway.

MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center
A modern, well-organised mall in Chiang Mai offering shopping, dining, and entertainment daily until 10pm.

Central Chiangmai Airport
Chiang Mai's largest shopping complex, conveniently located beside the international airport.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok's most sacred temple sits within the Grand Palace complex, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.

The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.

Pattaya Walking Street
Pattaya's iconic pedestrian nightlife strip, buzzing nightly with bars, clubs, seafood, and neon lights.

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
An iconic riverside Buddhist temple adorned with intricate porcelain-tiled spires in Bangkok's old city.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)
Getting there
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.
Getting around
- •Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)
Where to stay near Ganesha Hindu Temple
Find hotels in Chiang Mai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.