WAT SUAN DOK

Located just west of the Old City you will find the spacious and peaceful temple of Wat Suan Dok. Unlike some temples that can feel busy and crowded at times, Wat Suan Dok has wide spaces, clear views, and a calm atmosphere that makes it pleasant to walk around and enjoy the surroundings.

The temple grounds has an impressive large golden chedi with a collection of bright white mausoleums which contain the ashes of members of Chiang Mai’s former royal family. Best visited on a clear day when the contrast between the golden chedi, white mausoleums, and a blue sky make it ideal for photography. You can visit during the morning or afternoon to capture a more softer lighting effect. The evening is also an impressive sight when it is all lit up with warm lighting.

Wat Suan Dok also has a large main temple hall with a magnificiently decorated interior. You can see Buddha images and traditional decorative details that reflect northern Thai Buddhist culture. The hall is spacious, quiet, and has room to simply sit quietly and admire the artwork. As with all Buddhist temples in Thailand, please dress respectfully, remove your shoes before entering the hall, and speak quietly inside.

This important temple is not just a historic attraction, but an active place for Buddhist study and meditation. Depending on what time you visit, you may see monks around the temple grounds.

Wat Suan Dok is located on Suthep Road which is the main road crossing the middle bridge of the moat to the west of Chiang Mai’s Old City. It is easy to reach by taxi, using the Grab app, hailing a tuk-tuk, sharing a songthaew, or even by bicycle if you are comfortable riding in Chiang Mai traffic. The visit can also be combined with other attractions on the western side of the city, including the Nimman area or a trip toward Doi Suthep on a shared songthaew.
See the interactive map below for the exact location of Wat Suan Dok.