Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
Founded in 1345 during the Lanna Kingdom, Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan stands as one of Chiang Mai's most historically significant Buddhist temples. The complex is renowned for its classic Lanna-style architecture, a gleaming golden chedi, and beautifully adorned assembly halls that have drawn worshippers and visitors alike for centuries. At its heart is the Phra Singh Buddha image, a highly venerated statue that gives the temple its name. Visitors can explore a series of ornate buildings set within a spacious, well-maintained compound. Highlights include the oldest Lanna-style ordination hall, richly decorated with traditional murals and ancient manuscripts, as well as the striking copper and gold Buddha figures housed throughout the site. The atmosphere is genuinely active — ceremonies and religious observances take place regularly, which can occasionally limit access to certain halls but adds an authentic sense of living spiritual practice to any visit. On weekdays and outside of peak afternoon hours, the temple tends to be quieter and more contemplative. The complex opens daily from 05:30, making an early morning visit a rewarding option for those who prefer a calmer experience. As an active place of worship, modest dress is required — shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes must be removed before entering any building. The temple is located on Samlarn Road within the Old City, making it easily walkable from many central Chiang Mai accommodations.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Wat Phra Singh is one of the most important and respected temples in Chiang Mai, dating back to the Lanna Kingdom. It’s a must-visit landmark known for its beautiful architecture and strong religious significance. Highlights • One of Chiang Mai’s most iconic temples • Classic Lanna-style architecture with intricate wooden carvings • Home to the revered Phra Singh Buddha image • Spacious temple grounds, easy to explore at a relaxed pace • Many visitors wear traditional Thai costumes here for photos — great atmosphere for pictures Entrance & Parking • Entrance fee of 50 THB for certain areas when entering through the main gate • Parking is available both along the roadside and inside the temple grounds Overall Wat Phra Singh is not only a key cultural and religious site in Chiang Mai but also a beautiful place to experience traditional architecture and local worship practices. Whether you’re visiting for sightseeing, prayer, or Thai costume photos, it’s definitely worth a stop.
Wat Phra Singh is one of Chiang Mai's most important and beautiful temples, famous for its Lanna architecture and gleaming golden structures. I first went at 4 pm, but it was very crowded. I returned at 6:35 pm, and it was less crowded, offering a better view for photos. I was able to enter for free and enjoy a peaceful moment as night fell. Seeing it illuminated and almost deserted was an unexpected gift. Travel tip: If you want to explore the interior at your leisure, go during the day; but if you're looking for a more serene atmosphere without crowds, a visit at sunset is magical. Note that the entrance fee is 50 THB if you're going to see the large Buddha. Otherwise, you can enter normally. You can walk there; it's close to the city center.
During this visit to Wat Phra Singh, I was unable to enter the main assembly hall due to an ongoing ceremony. Instead, I paid my respects at the golden chedi and prayed in the oldest Lanna-style ordination hall, as well as in the hall dedicated to revered monks. The temple is well managed and retains its classic historic charm, although some areas could benefit from more thorough cleaning. Overall, it remains one of Chiang Mai’s most beautiful and iconic temples, offering a calm, spiritual atmosphere and a serene experience within the old city.
Location Info
2 Samlarn Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand+66 99 249 9395thai.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%9E%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B0%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%AB%E0%B9%8C%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A3Visitor 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 Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
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.
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 Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
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.