Wat Khuan Khama, Chiang Mai

Temple in Chiang Mai

Golden Horse Temple
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Coggleswort00

Wat Khuan Khama, often called the Golden Horse Temple, is one of the things to do in Chiang Mai for travellers who enjoy temples with distinctive character and storytelling. Located just north of the Old City near Chang Phuak Gate, this 15th-century temple stands out thanks to its remarkable equestrian theme—rooted in a touching tale of devotion between a soldier and his beloved horse. With dozens of gold horse statues lining the boundary walls and intricate artwork throughout the temple, Wat Khuan Khama is a memorable stop and a great place to visit on a walking tour of Chiang Mai's northern quarter.

Still less visited than major temples, the Golden Horse Temple offers a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. Its blend of Lanna design, unusual murals, and symbolic horse imagery makes it a fascinating cultural and architectural gem.

History and Significance of Wat Khuan Khama

The temple was founded in 1492 after a horse groom and soldier serving under General Jaomun Damtuang donated his land following the death of his cherished horse. To honour the animal, the temple was named Khuan Khama—“Temple of the Beloved Horse.”

This story reflects the deep bond between humans and horses in Lanna culture, where horses were valued companions in war and transport. Over centuries, Wat Khuan Khama has preserved this heritage through its symbolic decorations and equestrian iconography.

Things to See and Do in Wat Khuan Khama

Your visit begins with the striking boundary wall topped by 20 gold horse statues. Larger horses guard the entrances, creating one of the most distinctive gateways of any Chiang Mai temple.

Inside, the viharn impresses with its two-section tiered roof decorated with naga heads and chofa finials. The gold-and-red floral motifs on columns and doors shine brightly, while the interior murals are unusual for depicting scenes of modern Buddhist life rather than Jataka tales. Look for images of Songkran celebrations, monks receiving offerings, and the elegant Northern Thai Fingernail Dance.

The altar contains nine Buddha images, including a green glass Buddha modelled after the famous Emerald Buddha.

The ubosot, decorated with gold tracery over green tile mosaic, features naga-end rooflines and beautiful Devata stucco figures along its boundary. The Lanna-style chedi continues the horse theme with small horse figures on poles and niches housing Buddha images.

Explore the wooden ho rakang (bell tower), an older structure decorated with fading mosaic tiles, and the small ho trai located on the second floor of the kuti building. Near the entrance, a charming row of zodiac animal statues doubles as donation boxes—each connected to a Thai-Chinese zodiac symbol.

How to Get to Wat Khuan Khama

Travellers flying into Chiang Mai International Airport can reach the temple in about 20 minutes by taxi, tuk-tuk, or rideshare. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Chiang Mai on Booking.com.

Visitors arriving by train at Chiang Mai Railway Station can take a red songthaew or taxi northwest toward Chang Phuak Gate, where the temple sits just outside the northern Old City. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. For those travelling by car, the temple is easily accessible along the main roads leading to Chang Phuak Gate.

Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Khuan Khama

  • Best time to visit Wat Khuan Khama: Early morning for peaceful light and quiet grounds.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free; donations welcome.
  • Opening hours: Approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Official website: Check local temple listings.
  • How long to spend: 30 to 45 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Mostly accessible; some uneven tiles and steps.
  • Facilities: Limited; local shops and cafés nearby.
  • Photography tip: Capture the gold horse statues along the boundary wall from the street.
  • Guided tours: Often included in neighbourhood temple tours.
  • Nearby food options: Chang Phuak Night Market is a short walk away.

Where to Stay close to Wat Khuan Khama

For a boutique Old City stay within easy distance, consider Tamarind Village. Travellers looking for a quiet, stylish option nearby may prefer The Inside House. A comfortable and central choice close to major temples is U Chiang Mai.

Is Wat Khuan Khama Worth Visiting?

Yes. Wat Khuan Khama stands out for its captivating origin story, memorable horse-themed decor, and beautiful Lanna architecture. It's a rewarding stop for travellers seeking something unique and meaningful beyond the more famous temples of Chiang Mai.

FAQs for Visiting Wat Khuan Khama

Why does Wat Khuan Khama have a horse theme?
The temple was founded to honour a cherished horse belonging to a soldier in the 15th century.

Is there an entrance fee?
No, visiting is free.

Can women enter all buildings?
Women are not permitted to enter the ubosot.

How long does a visit take?
Around 30–45 minutes.

Is it crowded?
Generally quiet, especially in the mornings.

Nearby Attractions to Wat Khuan Khama

The Wat Khuan Khama appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Chiang Mai!

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Visiting Wat Khuan Khama

Hours:

6.00am to 6.00pm

Price:

Free entry

Address: Wat Khuan Khama 143 Sri Poom Rd Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District Chiang Mai 50200 Thailand
Chiang Mai: 1 km

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