Wat Sri Suphan, Chiang Mai

Temple in Chiang Mai

Wat Sri Suphan Chiang Mai
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Immanuelle

Wat Sri Suphan is one of the must-see places to visit in Chiang Mai, thanks to its extraordinary silver ubosot—the only one of its kind in Thailand. Located near the lively Saturday Walking Street Market by Chiang Mai Gate, this historic temple blends centuries of Lanna craftsmanship with modern artistic expression. Founded in 1502 and continually rebuilt across the centuries, it stands today as a shimmering testament to Chiang Mai's silverworking heritage. This spot is often visited on walking tours of Chiang Mai's southern Old City, where visitors can explore workshops, meet artisans, and admire the temple's dazzling metalwork up close.

The temple sits in the Haiya neighbourhood, once the centre of Chiang Mai's silver craft district. Even today, you can hear the rhythmic tapping of hammers as local artisans create repoussé and chased metal panels—many of which adorn the temple itself. With its intricate silver carvings, guardian figures, and cultural workshops, Wat Sri Suphan offers a fascinating blend of art, spirituality, and local tradition.

History and Significance of Wat Sri Suphan

Wat Sri Suphan traces its origins to the early 1500s under King Kaeo of the Mangrai Dynasty. The temple was closely connected to the silver artisans who lived and worked in the surrounding Haiya district, and its structures gradually incorporated their metalworking skills. Over time, the temple became a centre of craftsmanship as much as spirituality.

During World War II, Wat Sri Suphan suffered destruction when bombs struck near a nearby Japanese military camp. Much of the temple had to be rebuilt, giving artisans a chance to reshape the temple according to modern interpretations of traditional Lanna metalwork. The shimmering ubosot that visitors see today was completed in 2004, incorporating nickel, aluminium, and silver details.

Wat Sri Suphan remains a living cultural landmark. Its workshops, monk chat sessions, metalwork school, and spiritual teachings keep the traditions of Lanna silvercraft and Buddhist devotion alive for the next generation.

Things to See and Do in Wat Sri Suphan

Start your visit at the Silver Ubosot—the crown jewel of Wat Sri Suphan. Its exterior is covered in meticulously crafted repoussé panels depicting Buddhist stories, mythical creatures, and scenes of Lanna life. Although women cannot enter the ubosot due to ancient ordination rules, the exterior alone is breathtaking.

The entrance is marked by flowing blue-painted water designs, Deva guardians, and a serpent cobra representing Mucalinda. Dragon-like nagas line the bargeboards, while sculpted Garudas and elephants crown the roof. Inside, men will find intricate silver walls, a golden Buddha image, kranok patterns, and countless tiny carved alcoves—an immersive example of northern Thai artistry.

Next, visit the traditional Lanna-style viharn. Though not silver-clad, it features a dramatic steep roof, yaksha guardians, and detailed gold-on-red murals illustrating Jataka tales. The interior houses Buddha images in the Chiang Saen style, framed by teak columns with gilt lotus capitals.

The temple grounds include the chedi, designed in a classic Lanna octagonal style with layered levels and a Burmese-style hti umbrella adorned with hanging bells. The Ho Trai (scripture library) offers an exhibition on the Haiya silversmiths on its ground floor, with traditional manuscripts housed upstairs.

Finally, observe artisans at work in the silversmith workshop next to the viharn. Here, visitors gain insight into the repoussé and chasing techniques used on the temple’s panels—an invaluable look into a centuries-old craft.

How to Get to Wat Sri Suphan

Wat Sri Suphan is located south of Chiang Mai's Old City, near Chiang Mai Gate and the Saturday Walking Street Market. Travellers arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport, just a short drive away. 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 easily reach the temple via tuk-tuk, taxi, or songthaew. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Those travelling by car can follow the Old City moat roads to Chiang Mai Gate, with parking available along nearby streets.

Practical Tips on Visiting Wat Sri Suphan

  • Best time to visit Wat Sri Suphan: Early evening when the silver panels glow softly in the twilight.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Often around 1–2 EUR, used to support silversmith education.
  • Opening hours: Typically 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM; ubosot interior hours vary.
  • Official website: Check Chiang Mai tourism listings for updates.
  • How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Accessibility: Mostly flat pathways; some steps into buildings.
  • Facilities: Restrooms, donation counters, and artisan workshops.
  • Photography tip: Capture the ubosot’s mirrored reflections during golden hour.
  • Guided tours: Local guides or artisans available for craft explanations.
  • Nearby food options: Excellent street food at the Saturday Walking Street Market.

Where to Stay close to Wat Sri Suphan

Stay near the southern Old City or surrounding neighbourhoods for easy access to the temple and Chiang Mai Gate food stalls. A comfortable boutique option is Thai Akara Lanna Boutique Hotel. For convenient access to markets and temples, De Naga Hotel is a great choice. Those wanting stylish modern accommodation may prefer U Nimman Chiang Mai on the nearby Nimman strip.

Is Wat Sri Suphan Worth Visiting?

Yes. Wat Sri Suphan is unlike any other temple in Chiang Mai. Its silver ubosot, artisan workshops, and rich heritage make it a standout for travellers interested in craftsmanship, photography, and local culture. Even with its gender restrictions for entering the ubosot, the temple's artistry and lively creative environment make it an unforgettable stop.

FAQs for Visiting Wat Sri Suphan

Why is Wat Sri Suphan called the Silver Temple?
Because its ubosot is covered in repoussé silver and metalwork created by local artisans.

Can women enter the silver ubosot?
No, women are not permitted inside, though they may view it from the outside.

Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, usually a small fee that supports the silversmith community.

How long does a visit take?
Around 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Is there another silver temple nearby that women can enter?
Yes. Wat Muen San, about a 10-minute walk away.

Nearby Attractions to Wat Sri Suphan

  • Chiang Mai Gate Market: A bustling spot for street food and local produce.
  • Saturday Walking Street Market: A lively weekly market just steps away.
  • Wat Muen San: Another silver-adorned temple open to all visitors.
  • Wat Phan Tao: A teakwood temple with an atmospheric interior and golden chedi.
  • Wat Chedi Luang: One of Chiang Mai's most iconic temples in the Old City.

The Wat Sri Suphan appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Chiang Mai!

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Visiting Wat Sri Suphan

Hours:

9.00am to 9.30pm

Price:

50 Baht to the ordination hall (Women are not allowed. Photography is permitted)

Address: Wat Sri Suphan, Wua Lai Road, Haiya Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai: 1 km

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