Wat Pha Lat
A forest temple where the stream, the moss and the walk up matter as much as the shrines.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Daily 06:00–17:30
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.
Finding your way around Wat Pha Lat
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The Monk's Trail, in two stretches
- Trailhead to Wat Pha Lat
- About 2 km and 40 to 50 minutes uphill from the back of Chiang Mai University, marked with strips of orange robe tied to the trees.
- Wat Pha Lat to Doi Suthep
- About 5 km more and 75 to 90 minutes, steeper. Many walkers take a songthaew up the road for this part instead.
- Whole route
- Around 7.5 km and 600 m of climbing, roughly 3.5 hours with stops.
Getting there and around
- A Grab from the Old City to the trailhead is about ฿100 to ฿150, or drive or take a songthaew up the Doi Suthep road to the Wat Pha Lat turn-off.
- The trail can close after very heavy rain.
Details
Full opening hours
Tours that include Wat Pha Lat
Guided visits and day-tour combos that include Wat Pha Lat.
Why go, and how to do it well
Go for the walk as much as the temple. The Monk's Trail from the back of Chiang Mai University is about 2 km and takes 40 to 50 minutes on foot, passes a waterfall, and delivers you into a wooded compound where a stream runs straight through the grounds and the stupas and Buddha images sit half-swallowed by moss. It's the old pilgrim route up Doi Suthep, and arriving this way changes the place completely.
Founded in 1355 by King Kuena and also known as Wat Sakadagami, it's still an active monastery, and it feels like one. Quiet, shaded, built for meditation rather than for coach parties, which is why it stays calmer than the big temple further up the mountain. Early morning is when I'd come, with light filtering through the canopy, birds and running water, hardly anyone about. There are views back over Chiang Mai from the stone terraces if you wander the side paths.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026
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Tours that include Wat Pha Lat
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Pha Lat, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Wat Pha Lat (Thai: วัดผาลาด), also historically known as Wat Sakadagami (สกิทาคามี), is a Buddhist temple on the lower slopes of Doi Suthep mountain near Chiang Mai, Thailand. It’s one of the region’s most tranquil and lesser-visited temples, beloved for its jungle setting, serene atmosphere, and connection to local history. 🧘♂️ History & Significance Wat Pha Lat was founded in 1355 by King Kuena of the Lanna Kingdom. It was originally a rest stop for pilgrims and monks heading up the mountain towards Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. According to legend, the temple marks a spot where the king’s sacred white elephant rested on its journey — and inspired the building of both Wat Pha Lat and the famous Doi Suthep temple. For centuries it was quiet and lightly visited; it has since gained attention for its historic charm, natural beauty, and spiritual. 🌿 What Makes It Special Hidden jungle temple: Tucked into lush forest with pathways, stone stairways, and small waterfalls, the temple blends seamlessly with nature. Peaceful meditation spot: Fewer visitors than major temples means it’s ideal for reflection, meditation, and photography. Scenic views: You can find quiet corners overlooking Chiang Mai city framed by forest and mountain scenery. Architectural details: Ancient buildings, naga-flanked stairways, serene Buddha statues, and moss-covered stone add to its unique aesthetic. 🚶♀️ How to Visit Monk’s Trail: Many visitors reach Wat Pha Lat via the old Monk’s Trail, a jungle path leading up from near Chiang Mai Zoo. It’s a pleasant hike (≈30–45 min) through forest, bamboo patches, and small waterfalls. By road: You can also access the temple by motorbike or taxi without hiking. Temple etiquette: As with all Thai temples, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and show respect — silence and mindful behavior are appreciated. 📍 Things to Know There are no food stalls or shops, so bring water and snacks if needed. Lonely Planet It’s common to see monks meditating or living on site in this peaceful natural setting.
On the way to Doi Suthep, I came across a truly serene temple that feels like a hidden gem. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful, perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with yourself. What makes it extra special is the gentle waterfall that flows right through the temple grounds—it adds such a refreshing touch of nature. Sitting here feels like recharging your energy, letting the natural surroundings heal your inner self. If you’re visiting Chiang Mai and looking for a quiet spot to pause and reflect, this temple is a beautiful stop along the journey. 🙏
Nestled in the slopes of Doi Suthep, above Chiang Mai, Wat Pha Lat is a beautiful old temple. You immediately realise how it was built to allow for meditation. It's a peaceful and serene location. Wonder through the winding paths, and old stone buildings to discover waterfalls and incredible views over Chiang Mia. A gorgeous location, just be mindful of the winding roads to get there. Well worth a visit.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 8,326 reviews on Google.
บ้านห้วยผาลาด 101, ถนน ศรีวิชัย ตำบลสุเทพ อำเภอเมืองเชียงใหม่ เชียงใหม่ 50200, Thailand
Open in Google MapsMore temples & culture nearby
All within 2.7 km of Wat Pha Lat.
Doi Suthep Temple
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Wat Umong Suan Putthatham
Wattana Art Gallery
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
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.
Go Early Morning
Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.
Wat Pha Lat: Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Wat Pha Lat hike?
About 2 km from the trailhead behind Chiang Mai University, 40 to 50 minutes uphill. It carries on about 5 km more to Doi Suthep, another 75 to 90 minutes.
How do I get to Wat Pha Lat from Chiang Mai?
Take a Grab (about ฿100 to ฿150 from the Old City) to the Monk's Trail trailhead at the back of Chiang Mai University and walk up, or take a songthaew up the Doi Suthep road and ask for Wat Pha Lat.
Is Wat Pha Lat free?
Yes, the temple is free and donations are welcome. Recent visitors report a ฿100 trail fee for foreign adults at the Monk's Trail trailhead, a national park charge introduced in late 2025, so carry cash.
What is Wat Pha Lat?
A forest temple on the slopes of Doi Suthep, founded in 1355 under King Kuena of Lanna and also called Wat Sakadagami. It began as a resting place for pilgrims climbing to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and a stream runs through its grounds.
What are Wat Pha Lat's opening hours?
Daily, 06:00 to 17:30. Cover your shoulders and knees, because it's a working monastery.
Is Wat Pha Lat worth visiting?
Wat Pha Lat holds a 4.8★ rating from 8,326 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Chiang Mai.
When is the best time to visit Wat Pha Lat?
The best months to visit Chiang Mai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & Songkran (April) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: Mid-February – April (smoke & heat).
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