Wat Intharawat (Wat Ton Kwen)
Wat Intharawat, commonly known as Wat Ton Kwen, stands out among Chiang Mai's many temples for its rare, largely unadorned wooden architecture built in the classic Lanna style. Unlike the gilded showpieces closer to the city centre, this temple offers something quieter and more intimate — aged timber structures, a genuinely historic atmosphere, and a sense of northern Thai cultural heritage that feels unhurried and authentic. It has also served as a filming location for Thai television dramas, adding a layer of cultural familiarity for many Thai visitors. A popular draw for both locals and tourists is the opportunity to rent traditional Lanna-style costumes, available for around 150 baht per person, making it a favoured spot for photography and special occasions. Rental options are available at stalls near the temple, including across the road at Kam John Cafe. The temple grounds are well maintained and the relaxed, non-commercialised setting makes it easy to explore at a gentle pace. Good to know: Confirm costume rental availability before visiting, as hours may vary. As with all Thai temples, visitors should dress modestly — covered shoulders and knees are required — and remove shoes before entering any sacred buildings. The temple is located in the Hang Dong area, a short drive south of central Chiang Mai, so arranging transport in advance is recommended. Arriving during daylight hours is advisable as opening hours are not publicly listed.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Intharawat (Wat Ton Kwen), round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Wat Ton Kwen is a beautiful old wooden temple with classic northern Chiang Mai architecture. The atmosphere feels very historic and cool, making it a perfect spot to appreciate Lanna culture. It’s also one of the most popular places for photo shoots in traditional Lanna costumes, since this temple was used as a filming location for the famous Thai period drama “Klin Kasalong” (กลิ่นกาสะลอง), which tells a story along with Lanna traditions. Of course, we couldn’t miss the chance to follow the trend and take photos here too! Around the temple, there are many rental shops offering both Thai and Lanna outfits. Prices for renting costumes range from 500–1,000 THB, and if you’d like a professional photographer, it usually costs about 800–1,000 THB. Most packages include all digital files plus some beautifully retouched photos, which makes it very worthwhile. If you visit, I highly recommend trying the Lanna costume photoshoot — the results are stunning and it will definitely be a memorable experience.
Wat Inthanarat or Wat Ton Kwen is beautiful in its simple , well designed Lanna style architecture ...there is a Tiger café or Kam John Cafe across the road kiosks that rent beautiful Lanna style traditional dress for visitors to take photos in at the Temple grounds ....the Kam John cafe and bakery , which is across the temple entrance is a nice spot to have a coffee, cake and each the lovely thai ladies walk gracefully in their Lanna traditional gowns ...
A really fun place.... Our wedding anniversary and we wanted to do something nice and dressing up in traditional Lanna clothing for a photo shoot was great👍 Only 150 baht each to rent clothing (girls get their hair done). There are professional photographers on hand if you want some expert photos, 850 baht to hire them.
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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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)