Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan
A working monastery 58km south of Chiang Mai, and one of Thailand's serious Vipassana centers.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Daily 08:00–17:00
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.
Details
- Phone
- +66 53 342 186
- Website
- www.watchomtong.com
Full opening hours
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Why go, and how to do it well
Two very different visits happen here. One is the twenty-minute stop for golden shrines, colorful statuary, a photograph, then back in the car toward Doi Inthanon. The other is a retreat that can run ten days and change how you think. Both are valid. Just know which one you're signing up for.
The meditation program is what sets this place apart. It doesn't follow the Goenka method that most Westerners have heard of, but its own lineage, and students stay on site inside a working monastery rather than a purpose-built retreat center. Reviewers who came for the foundation course single out individual teachers by name for their patience and attention. They also say plainly that it isn't easy. The structure is disciplined, the days are long, and people arrive expecting a rest and find something harder than that.
If you're just passing through, the grounds justify the detour off the Chiang Mai to Hod road, roughly 58 kilometers south of the city.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026
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Experience hints
Reviews from Google
As a westerner, I was choosing between a few vipassana centers in Thailand and I am glad I chose this one. It is a unique center that does not follow the more westernly-known goenka style, and you stay at a working monestary with rich cultural history. I came for 10 days and had an incredible, life-changing experience. My monk instructor was invested in my practice, challenged me, and made sure to clear any confusion I was having. All of the other monk instructors were equally as caring and kind. And shoutout to Jirapa - a wonderful volunteer who made my experience extra special, warm, and welcoming :) The environment felt very relaxed and respectful. This center is not as strict or rigid as others — there was a balance of instruction and self-discipline. This felt like a great structure because it mimics home-life more, where you have to be self driven to manage your practice. I hope to return one day and complete a longer stay.
Attended the foundation course. Although I did not manage to complete the course, my teacher, Phra Ajahn Poonsak, was a very kind and understanding teacher. He taught me Dhamma I thought I knew but never known, and enlightened me in so many ways. Sister Jirapa is the loveliest person I've ever met, so patience, generous, kind, encouraging, and understanding. I will definitely return again to continue practicing. Sadhu sadhu sadhu.
Well-known Buddhist temple complex with ornate, golden shrines & colorful statues.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 4,754 reviews on Google.
157 หมู่ที่ 2 ถนน เชียงใหม่-ฮอด, Tambon Ban Luang, Amphoe Chom Thong, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand
Open in Google MapsTips 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 Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan worth visiting?
Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan holds a 4.7★ rating from 4,754 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Chiang Mai.
What are the opening hours of Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan?
Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan is typically open 08:00–17:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan?
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).
Where is Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan located?
Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan is at 157 หมู่ที่ 2 ถนน เชียงใหม่-ฮอด, Tambon Ban Luang, Amphoe Chom Thong, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city center).
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