King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion
The Footprint Pavilion sits on a forested hill in the Rop Wiang sub-district of Chiang Rai and is a site of quiet devotion rather than tourist spectacle. The structure enshrines a footprint said to be associated with the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), who commanded deep reverence throughout Thailand. The site draws Thai visitors who come to pay respects, light incense, and enjoy the peaceful hillside surroundings. The views from the pavilion over the Chiang Rai valley are a secondary draw. Dress modestly and behave respectfully as with any royally or religiously significant site in Thailand.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Beautiful place, very well maintained. Fantastic view over Chiang Rai but not today with all the smoke in the air (2019-03-18). And two young soldiers that gave us good guidence and information.
Attractive place and data.
Well, there is a cement cast of the former king’s foot, you have a chance to walk through a nostalgic active army base, there is a very very steep road (no traffic - only pedestrians) the views over Chiang Rai are ok. Not a “must see” stop on the tour, but a kinda kitch scene in a way. Nice stop to avoid crowds.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 100 reviews on Google.
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King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion: Frequently Asked Questions
Is King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion worth visiting?
King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion holds a 4.5★ rating from 100 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Chiang Rai.
What are the opening hours of King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion?
King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion is open 24 hours a day — 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 King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion?
The best months to visit Chiang Rai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (smoke & heat).
Where is King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion located?
King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion is at WR65+XFX, Rop Wiang Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand, in Chiang Rai. Getting around Chiang Rai: Grab (available in city centre); Songthaews.
Location Info
WR65+XFX, Rop Wiang Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)
Where to stay near King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion
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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.
Nearby Places
Oub Kham Museum
A private collection of northern Thai antiques and Lanna artifacts, guided by knowledgeable staff in Chiang Rai.
Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park (Rai Mae Fah Luang)
A beautifully landscaped cultural park preserving Lanna heritage through gardens, museums, and traditional pavilions.
Tai Yuan Art Gallery
A personal art gallery and workshop showcasing the intricate work of respected Thai artist Chalong Pinitsuwan.
Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong
Ancient hilltop Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai with a golden stupa said to house relics of the Buddha.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near King Bhumibol Adulyadej's-Footprint Pavilion
Find hotels in Chiang Rai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)
Rainy season
June – September
Avg. temperature
14°C – 35°C(57°F – 95°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Mae Fah Luang Airport (CEI) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). The bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. There's also a scenic Golden Triangle road trip from Chiang Mai.
Getting around
- •Grab (available in city centre)
- •Songthaews
- •Motorbike rental (฿200/day)
- •Car hire (for Golden Triangle & hill tribes)