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Huge old tree
Temples & Culture
Chiang Mai

Huge old tree

4.2(42 reviews)

Standing in the Si Phum area of Chiang Mai's historic old city, this venerable tree has quietly accumulated a following of visitors who come simply to take in its sheer scale. While it sits under the Temples & Culture category, the attraction here is entirely natural — an impressively large, old-growth tree that commands attention through size alone. Visitors consistently remark on how difficult it is to capture the full trunk and canopy in a single photograph. Expectations should be set accordingly: this is a tree, not a temple complex or cultural monument. What makes it worth a brief detour is the genuine sense of age and presence it projects. Several visitors have noted it appears to be around a hundred years old, though no official information confirms this. The experience is quiet, unhurried, and oddly satisfying — the kind of spontaneous stop that ends up being a highlight precisely because nothing is being sold or performed. A good time to visit is during daylight hours, as at least one visitor noted the tree appears larger in the day and can be difficult to photograph after dark. The location on Sanamkila Road places it within easy walking distance of other old city landmarks, making it a natural addition to any walking route through the area. No entrance fee, booking, or special preparation is required — simply arrive, look up, and draw your own conclusions.

Experience hints

Visitor Reviews

An impressive specimen of the genus turistum confuscium. Despite my first calculations the tree seems to have grown at least 73 meters taller between day and night time. My fellow researcher tried to take a sample for testing purposes and was immediately consumed by the roots. I can still hear the screams…I’m sorry Edgar, I was not strong enough to save you. No wait time, open on bank holidays, best to hire a guide.

Saw this and my first thought was This tree looks possibly so old. And then I thought… something quite huge about it too. It changed my life!!!!!!!

I read the reviews, now I have seen it for myself. This is a huge. And old. And a tree. 5 Stars probably. Idk I am not a tree expert.

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.

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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

High

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)