Wat Sang Kaew Phothiyan (Kruba Ariyachat)
Wat Sang Kaew Phothiyan is a Buddhist temple complex in the Mae Suai district of Chiang Rai, dedicated to Kruba Ariyachat, a deeply respected spiritual figure in Northern Thailand. The temple is notable for its highly detailed architecture and expansive, well-maintained gardens, and draws both devout worshippers and culturally curious visitors seeking something beyond the region's more widely promoted attractions. Visitors familiar with Chiang Rai's famous White and Blue Temples have described this complex as comparably impressive, yet far less crowded. The atmosphere is peaceful and spiritually charged, reflecting an active place of worship with strong ties to the local community. On occasion, visitors have had the rare opportunity to attend Buddhist ceremonies and receive a blessing from Kruba Ariyachat himself. The grounds are extensive enough to warrant several hours of exploration, with the gardens alone drawing considerable praise. Good to know: There is no entrance fee to visit. At the time of recent visits, the main temple building was undergoing renovation, so some areas may be inaccessible. As opening hours are not publicly listed, visiting during daylight hours is the safest approach. Dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered, and remove shoes before entering any sacred structures. The temple is located in a rural area outside Mae Suai town, so arranging private transport or travelling by motorcycle is strongly recommended, as public transport options are limited.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Sang Kaew Phothiyan (Kruba Ariyachat), round out your day in Chiang Rai with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
It is one of the most beautiful Temple that i visit in Thailand .I don't know why no one have this Temple on their backet list,it's much better than white or blue Temples. It's amazing Temple, with unique design and build. It's a great place to bring kids or just have a day out with family. I strongly recommend visiting this Temple, you will definitely be satisfied with your visit. Also it's free,but if you want to visit main Temple inside it's 10 bath,if you would like to go for sky walk it's 40 bath and don't forget to bring some money for donations 😉 Enjoy
My husband brought me here on a motorcycle; he used to visit this place back when he was single. There is no entrance fee, which is great. Unfortunately, the main temple is currently under renovation. You can still explore other beautiful temples, flower gardens, misty paths, and various statues ranging from normal size to massive scale. We did have to pay for tickets to access the skywalk near the main statue, but it was well worth it. Definitely a must-visit for locals and international tourists.
Wat Sang Kaew Phothiyan (Kruba Ariyachat) is a very interesting and impressive temple complex in Mae Suai, Chiang Rai, with highly detailed architecture and a strong local spiritual atmosphere. During my visit, there were construction works, so I couldn’t explore the entire site properly. Even so, what I could see looked unique and worth the detour. I would gladly return in the future to experience the temple fully once the renovations are finished.
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 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)