Wat Loi Kroh
Wat Loi Kroh sits on Loi Kroh Road in the heart of Chiang Mai, serving as an active place of Buddhist worship and a quieter alternative to the city's more heavily visited temples. Its setting within the old city area makes it a natural stop for those exploring Chiang Mai's broader temple circuit on foot, without the crowds that often accompany larger landmark sites. Visitors can expect a serene, contemplative atmosphere characteristic of Northern Thai Lanna architecture, with ornate decorative details, religious iconography, and traditional temple grounds. Because the temple remains in active daily use by monks and local worshippers, it offers a more authentic and unhurried experience than purely touristic sites — one where the rhythms of monastic life are genuinely present rather than staged. As a practical note, specific opening hours are not publicly listed, though most active temples in Chiang Mai welcome visitors during daylight hours. Respectful dress is essential: covered shoulders and knees are expected at all Buddhist temples in Thailand. Visitors should be mindful of ongoing religious activities, keep voices low, and follow any posted guidelines on the grounds. No entrance fee is indicated, making this a straightforward and accessible cultural stop for those spending time in central Chiang Mai.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Loi Kroh, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
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
Bustling night market featuring street food vendors & local crafts, plus souvenirs.

Central Chiangmai
A large modern shopping mall on the Chiang Mai superhighway with extensive dining, retail, and a celebrated food hall.

MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center
Sprawling, upscale mall features dozens of boutiques, gift shops, eateries & a cinema.
Central Chiangmai Airport
Northern Thailand's largest shopping complex, ideally placed beside Chiang Mai International Airport.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha
The Grand Palace
Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.

Pattaya Walking Street
Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
Monumental Buddhist temple right on the river, with an iconic, ornately tiled central prang (spire).
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)