Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai

Temple in Chiang Mai

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Supanut Arunoprayote.

Wat Phra Singh is one of the best places to visit in Chiang Mai, a Royal Temple of the First Grade that stands at the cultural and spiritual heart of the Old City. With origins dating back to 1345, it remains one of northern Thailand's most revered religious sites. The temple is famed for its exquisite Lanna-style architecture, ancient murals, and its legendary Buddha image, the Phra Buddha Sihing. This spot is often visited on walking tours of Chiang Mai thanks to its central location, deep history, and rich cultural significance.

Stepping through its lion-guarded entrance on Rachadamnoen Road brings you into a serene world of gilded facades, teak halls, sacred relics, and monastic life. Whether you're exploring during a calm morning or during the lively Songkran festivities, Wat Phra Singh offers an immersive experience that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Chiang Mai.

History and Significance of Wat Phra Singh
Things to See and Do in Wat Phra Singh
How to Get to Wat Phra Singh
Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Phra Singh
Where to Stay close to Wat Phra Singh
Is Wat Phra Singh Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Wat Phra Singh
Nearby Attractions to Wat Phra Singh

History and Significance of Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Singh was founded in 1345 by King Phayu of the Mangrai dynasty, who constructed a chedi to enshrine the ashes of his father, King Kham Fu. Over time, additional structures filled the grounds, transforming it into one of the grandest temples in the Lanna Kingdom. The arrival of the Phra Buddha Sihing statue in 1367 elevated the temple's status further and inspired its current name.

The temple experienced periods of neglect, especially during Chiang Mai’s Burmese occupation from 1578 to 1774. After the restoration of Lanna independence, King Kawila initiated major rebuilding works, including enlarging the chedi and restoring the ubosot. In the 20th century, revered monk Khru Ba Srivichai spearheaded further renovations, with another major restoration in 2002 to preserve the temple’s architectural beauty.

Today, Wat Phra Singh is one of Chiang Mai's most active temples, home to both daily monastic practices and major cultural events, most notably the Songkran Festival, when the Phra Buddha Sihing is paraded through the streets in a beloved local tradition.

Things to See and Do in Wat Phra Singh

Begin your visit at the temple's grand entrance, guarded by impressive singhs (lion figures). Wander through the grounds to reach the Wihan Lai Kham, the complex's finest structure and the home of the revered Phra Buddha Sihing statue. The hall's exquisite murals depict scenes of local Lanna life and Buddhist teachings, making it one of the most celebrated artistic spaces in Chiang Mai.

Explore the Ho Trai, the temple library, built in classic Lanna style above a brick base to protect manuscripts from floods and pests. Its sculpted teak and gilded decorations showcase the artistry of the Lanna Kingdom. The main viharn, or Phra Viharn Luang, houses another important Buddha image and features ornate gables, multi-tiered roofs, and richly detailed motifs.

As you walk the grounds, you will find stupas, chapels, monk residences, and smaller shrines that reflect a blend of history, devotion, and craftsmanship. Each structure invites visitors to pause, observe, and appreciate the layers of Chiang Mai’s spiritual heritage.

How to Get to Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Singh is located in the centre of Chiang Mai's Old City along Rachadamnoen Road. Travellers arriving by air will land at Chiang Mai International Airport, just a short drive or ride away. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Chiang Mai on Booking.com.

Visitors can easily reach the temple by songthaew, tuk-tuk, taxi, or rideshare from anywhere in the city. Those arriving by train at Chiang Mai Railway Station can transfer to a tuk-tuk or songthaew to reach the Old City. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Wat Phra Singh is also accessible by car, with some street parking and nearby lots available.

Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Phra Singh

Best time to visit Wat Phra Singh: Early morning for photography and quiet exploration.
Entrance fee in Euros: Usually around 1.3–1.5 EUR for adults.
Opening hours: Typically 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Official website: Refer to Chiang Mai tourism resources.
How long to spend: 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the main halls and grounds.
Accessibility: Mostly level terrain, though some structures have steps.
Facilities: Restrooms, donation points, and vendors outside the temple.
Photography tip: Capture the Wihan Lai Kham’s golden facade glowing at sunset.
Guided tours: Available through local tour operators or hired temple guides.
Nearby food options: Cafés and restaurants line Rachadamnoen Road and the Old City.

Where to Stay close to Wat Phra Singh

Staying within the Old City gives travellers easy access to the temple and other historic sites. A refined option nearby is Thai Akara Lanna Boutique Hotel. Another excellent choice is De Naga Hotel, close to temples and local markets. For those preferring modern comforts slightly outside the Old City, U Nimman Chiang Mai offers convenience and style.

Is Wat Phra Singh Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Wat Phra Singh is one of Chiang Mai's most important temples and a masterpiece of Lanna architecture. Its sacred atmosphere, historic murals, and revered Phra Buddha Sihing statue make it a culturally rich and rewarding destination. Whether you're exploring the Old City on foot or seeking a deeper understanding of Lanna art and heritage, this temple is not to be missed.

FAQs for Visiting Wat Phra Singh

When was Wat Phra Singh founded?
In 1345 by King Phayu of the Mangrai dynasty.

Who is the Phra Buddha Sihing?
A revered Buddha statue with a legendary history and central to the temple’s identity.

What is the temple most famous for?
Its Wihan Lai Kham, Lanna murals, and the Phra Buddha Sihing statue.

Is there a dress code?
Yes. Shoulders and knees must be covered.

How long does a visit take?
Around 1 to 1.5 hours.

Nearby Attractions to Wat Phra Singh

Wat Chedi Luang: Home to one of Chiang Mai's most iconic ancient chedis.
Three Kings Monument: A key landmark symbolising the city's founding.
Wat Phan Tao: A beautiful teak-wood temple near Wat Chedi Luang.
Sunday Walking Street Market: A lively evening market stretching from Tha Phae Gate.
Chiang Mai City Arts & Cultural Centre: Exhibits on Lanna history and culture.

The Wat Phra Singh appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Chiang Mai!

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