Chiang Mai’s most unmissable temples

What is it?

Is this the best temple in Thailand? We think so. Shrouded by trees in the forested Suthep mountainside, Wat Pha Lat was originally used as a resting place for monks travelling all the way up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. A prayer hall, stupa and pavilion surrounded by trees, streams and stone pathways; this temple is quite literally lush and an idyllic place for reflection. Or just taking in the city below. 

Why we love it: 

It’s not just the temple itself that’s impressive. The best way to reach the temple is by walking the Monk's Trail, an easy forest path that begins near Chiang Mai University and takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how speedy your hiking pace is. At times, it does close (especially after exceptionally heavy rain), but usually the path is open and actively used by monks and visitors almost every day. The fact that the trail is as old as the temple invokes some serious history vibes, while the temple itself wouldn’t look out of place in a hidden relic documentary. 

Time Out tip:

With all temples, appropriate clothing and behaviour is a must here. There’s been a few cases of influencers acting up here, so don’t be that. And if you ask the monks nicely, you can join their sunset chanting. 

101 Sriwichai Alley (access halfway up Doi Suthep by road, or behind the university via Monk’s Trail). Free, 6am-5.30pm

What is it?

Another leafy temple, this time in the foothills of Suthep. Wat Umong is as old as Chiang Mai itself, founded just one year after the city in 1297. The serene complex is rarely busy and is mega peaceful to explore. The most impressive feature is its network of subterranean brick meditation tunnels built beneath a small hill. 

Why we love it: 

Its calm atmosphere makes it a popular place for learning about the city's Buddhist tradition; the temple remains an active place of worship and is home to Wat Umong Suan Buddhadhamma, a residential meditation centre that charges just B250 a night. It’s also just a great place for a stroll. Buddhist philosophy in Thai and English hang listfully off the trees, while the tunnels make a great place to lose phone signal and contemplate things in peace. There’s also a large pond that’s home to hundreds of cared-for people-loving pigeons, which you can hand feed. 

Time Out tip:

After saying your prayers or taking your pics, pop along to see the wild deer grazing next door at the Choeng Doi Suthep Wildlife Conservation Park which joins the south of the temple grounds.

135 Soi Wat Umong, Suthep. Free. 4am-8pm

What is it?

Once the tallest structure in the ancient Lanna Kingdom – a Chiang Mai pyramid if you will – Wat Chedi Luang is one of the city's most important temples, dating back to the 14th century. Although its once massive red brick stupa collapsed in an earthquake in 1545, the temple is no less jaw dropping and is also home to Chiang Mai’s city pillar, a shrine believed to protect the city's spiritual health and prosperity. Go and pay your respects.

Why we love it: 

Chedi Luang is also a great place to learn about the region's history. The temple was also home to the Emerald Buddha for a time (it’s now in Bangkok) and its size and scale really demonstrates the religious devotion of the medieval Lanna kings.

Time Out tip:

It does cost B50 to get in, although sometimes you can slip through the back gate. Visit in the evening to see the Bat-signal-esque searchlights swooping up over the huge stupa.

103 Prapokklao Road, Old City. B50 entry. 5am-10.30pm

What is it?

As northern Thailand's most important Buddhist pilgrimage site, it’s no surprise that Wat Phra That Doi Suthep happens to be perched up on the slopes of Doi Suthep, overlooking the city. Founded in the 14th century, the temple houses a sacred relic of the Buddha so devout visitors have been making the climb for centuries. These days you can drive to the top, although the last leg is a satisfying ordeal, with a 306-step naga staircase leading right up to the dazzlingly bright, gold covered chedi. 

Why we love it: 

Besides the legend behind how its location was chosen – the then royalty put relics on the back of a white elephant that walked to the top, trumpeted three times and promptly died – the temples boasts incredible views, fantastic architecture and very real pilgrims aplenty. Did you even see Chiang Mai if you didn’t visit Wat Doi Suthep?

Time Out tip:

Make sure to pay the resident monks a visit, who tend to sit in the wings of the temple ready to give blessings and tie prayer bands around your wrists.

Suthep, Chiang Mai. B30. 5am-9pm

What is it?

An overlooked treasure and make no mistake, Wat Chet Yot (or Wat Jed Yod depending on how it's translated) is a 15th century rarity and often missed on the tourist trail. This Lanna Kingdom era temple is an architectural homage to the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, India, where Buddha attained enlightenment. Its distinctive seven spired chedi and detailed stucco carvings are practically identical to structures at the Indian counterpart. 

Why we love it: 

Aside from being a looker, the temple is another important pilgrimage site; the Eighth World Buddhist Council was held here in 1477, properly reinforcing Theravada Buddhism in northern Thailand.

Time Out tip:

Get your offerings from the row of stores outside the complex and make merit the proper way. Incense, flowers and all. 

90 Chang Phueak. Free. 6am-6pm