WAT PHRA SINGH

Located inside the Old City is the historic Wat Phra Singh. This impressive temple is known for its Lanna architecture, golden chedi, sacred Buddha image, richly decorated halls, and spacious peaceful temple grounds. It's one of the must-see attractions in Chiang Mai along with Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

The temple’s full name is Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, and it is a very active Buddhist temple where you will see monks, many local worshippers, and occasional ceremonies taking place.

What makes Wat Phra Singh impressive is it's a complete temple complex with halls, chedis, shrines, courtyards, monks’ residences, and ornate decorative details.

The temple reflects the grace and detail of Lanna design, with carved wood, layered roofs, golden decoration, naga details, and beautifully intricate temple buildings. Best time to visit for amazing photos is in the early morning or evening during sunset when the temple details stand out and the large chedi glows a deep golden color in the sun. Allow some time to wander the grounds and discover all the hidden gems.

One of the most important features is the Phra Singh Buddha image which is a highly revered Buddha image housed in Wihan Lai Kham, one of the most beautiful buildings in the temple grounds. This hall is famous for its classic Lanna style richly decorated interior and traditional murals showing scenes from Buddhist stories and traditional life in old Northern Thai culture.

Another amazing feature not to miss is the large golden chedi which rises behind the main temple buildings.

Best time to visit if you want a quieter experience is early mornings during week days because weekends will always be very busy with locals and other visitors. If you prefer a more livelier experience, then visit during major Thai Buddhist holidays such as Makha Bucha Day, Visakha Bucha Day, Asahna Bucha Day, Khao Phansa, or during Songkran in April. Wat Phra Singh is also very active during Wan Phra. These are the Buddhist holy days that follow the lunar calendar which usually happens around the new moon, full moon, and quarter-moon days. You can read more about Buddist festivals held during the year here.

Dress respectfully when visiting Wat Phra Singh. Shoulders and knees should be covered, no revealing front or back, and shoes must be removed before entering temple halls. Since it is an active place of worship, speak quietly inside the buildings and be respectful of monks and people praying. Do not stand directly in front of worshipers so as not to block the Buddha image from their view.

See below for map and directions to Wat Phra Singh.

If you are staying inside Chiang Mai Old City, Wat Phra Singh may be within easy walking distance if you are an active walker.

From Tha Phae Gate, you can walk across the Old City, take a tuk-tuk, or catch a red songthaew, or use a ride-hailing app. From areas such as Nimmanhaemin, the Night Bazaar, or the Riverside, a songthaew, tuk-tuk, taxi, or Grab app ride is usually the easiest option.

Wat Phra Singh is also a good starting point for an Old City temple walk. You could visit Wat Phra Singh first, then continue toward Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, the Three Kings Monument, and the museums which are next to the monument.