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Temples & Culture
Udon Thani

Wat Matchimawas

4.5(352 reviews)

Situated along Thanon Udondutsadi in the heart of Udon Thani, Wat Matchimawas is an established Buddhist temple that serves as both an active place of worship and a cultural landmark for visitors to the region. The temple reflects the spiritual life of the local community and offers travellers a genuine glimpse into northeastern Thai religious tradition, away from the more heavily touristed temple circuits found in cities like Chiang Mai or Bangkok. Visitors can expect a calm and contemplative atmosphere, with traditional temple architecture, ornate shrine buildings, and the quiet rhythms of daily Buddhist practice. The grounds provide space to observe monks, admire decorative details, and take a respectful pause from the pace of city travel. Its central location in Mueang Udon Thani district makes it an easy addition to any itinerary exploring the city. As with all Buddhist temples in Thailand, visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees before entering any of the main buildings or sacred areas. The temple appears to be accessible around the clock, making early morning visits particularly rewarding, as this is when monks conduct alms rounds and the atmosphere is at its most authentic. No admission fee is typically charged at temples of this type, though small donations are always appreciated and considered respectful.

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Experience hints

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Wat Matchimawas, round out your day in Udon Thani with contrasting stops nearby.

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Wat Matchimawas: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wat Matchimawas worth visiting?

Wat Matchimawas holds a 4.5★ rating from 352 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Udon Thani.

What are the opening hours of Wat Matchimawas?

Wat Matchimawas is typically open 00:00-23:59 — 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 Matchimawas?

The best months to visit Udon Thani are December – February (Red Lotus Sea blooms Dec–Feb), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January (lotus season weekends) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (peak heat).

Where is Wat Matchimawas located?

Wat Matchimawas is at 5 Thanon Udondutsadi, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani, Chang Wat Udon Thani 41000, Thailand, in Udon Thani. Getting around Udon Thani: Songthaews on numbered city routes (฿10–15); Grab and metered taxis in the city.

Location Info

5 Thanon Udondutsadi, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani, Chang Wat Udon Thani 41000, Thailand
Opening Hours
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
WednesdayClosed
ThursdayClosed
FridayClosed
SaturdayClosed
Sunday00:00-23:59

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

December – February (Red Lotus Sea blooms Dec–Feb)

Avoid: March – May (peak heat)

Rainy season

May – October

Avg. temperature

19°C – 35°C(66°F – 95°F)

Crowds

Low

Peak: December – January (lotus season weekends)

Getting there

Udon Thani Airport (UTH) has frequent Bangkok flights (~65 min). The overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Nong Khai stops here (~9 hrs); buses from Mo Chit take 7–8 hours. Vientiane (Laos) is 80 km via the Friendship Bridge.

Getting around

  • Songthaews on numbered city routes (฿10–15)
  • Grab and metered taxis in the city
  • Minivans and trains to Nong Khai (55 km, ~1 hr)
  • Rental car for the Red Lotus Sea and Ban Chiang (both ~50 km out)

Where to stay near Wat Matchimawas

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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

City Pillar Shrine or San Lak Mueang

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A sacred city pillar shrine in Udon Thani, open around the clock for prayer and cultural exploration.

China City Shrine, Udon Thani
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China City Shrine, Udon Thani

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A Chinese-style shrine in Udon Thani offering a glimpse into the city's Chinese cultural heritage.

Thung Si Muang

Thung Si Muang

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A beloved cultural landmark in Udon Thani, offering a peaceful green space rich in local heritage.

Udon Sawang Metha Thammasathan Foundation Chinese Temple
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Udon Sawang Metha Thammasathan Foundation Chinese Temple

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40/2 Sisuttha Rd, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Amphoe Mueang Udon Thani, Chang Wat Udon Thani 41000, Thailand

A well-regarded Chinese temple in Udon Thani, open around the clock for worship and cultural visits.

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