Wat Phra Kaew
14th-century temple housing a copy of Thailand's revered Emerald Buddha, discovered here in 1434.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Phra Kaew, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
In 1434 lightning struck the stupa at Wat Phra Kaew in Chiang Rai and the Emerald Buddha unveiled. In 1552 the Buddha was moved to Laos as the Kingdoms Lan Na and Lan Sang merged. In 1779 the Siamese invaded Laos and seized the Emerald Buddha. It was taken to Wat Arun where it stayed 5 years. In 1784 it was moved to its current home at the Grand Palace. You should definitely visit Wat Phra Kaew if in Chiang Rai simply because of its history. Please remember to dress accordingly if entering the temple.
This famous temple is located in the city of Chiang Rai so ready to get to.It has a Jade Buddha in one of the buildings to make merit. Light a candle and insense and offer fliers 20 bht donation before entering the temple. There is also a museum with very old items from Thailand's history to view on 2 levels. Beautiful Thai architecture buildings are represented in this temple. Well worth a visit to learn if history and to see this amazing Temple..
A beautiful, serene temple in a very quiet location. It offers several attractions, including a museum with a unique brown and green color scheme—a refreshing change from the usual styles. You can even ring a traditional bell and admire the stunning Green Emerald Buddha. Highly recommended if you are looking for a peaceful atmosphere!
Location Info
19 หมู่ที่ 1 Trairat Rd, Tambon Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, Thailandwww.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070919502094Tips 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 Rai
Golden Triangle
Educational park at the intersection of Myanmar, Laos & Thailand, once known for opium production.
Chiang Rai Night Bazaar
Compact night market offering street food, apparel, jewelry & gifts, plus live entertainment.
Singha Park Chiang Rai
Scenic park in a farmlike setting with tea plantations, orchards, trails, a tram & a petting zoo.
Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House, Bistro & Bar
Relaxed riverside outfit with a garden prepping international fare made from seasonal ingredients.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha
Doi Suthep Temple
Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi
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.
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). Bus from Chiang Mai takes ~3 hrs. 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)