Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong
This historic Buddhist temple with a golden pagoda is known for containing relics of the Buddha.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong, round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
You can drive up, or take a lovely path up through woods then up steps to the top. Several temples and statues, plus snacks stands and toilets. The pagoda is the oldest (~1000years) part housing the holy relics. Not busy when we were there around lunchtime.
Lovely little temple complex next to the City Pillar monument. The golden stupa is about 500 years old and is said to be built on the remains of an even older temple.
The original Wat was apparently older than the city, however the current buildings are much younger. We found the Wat relatively unspectacular, however its location slightly outside todays city centre on a hill made it worth the trip. Next to it is a monument designating the old centre of town (2nd photo)
Location Info
WR8F+72M, ArjAmnuay Rd, Tambon Rop Wiang, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57000, ThailandTips 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)