A Historic Temple in the Heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City
Wat Phra Singh is one of the most respected temples in Chiang Mai. From the front, it looks darker and more modest than many others, but the inside is beautifully decorated with red and gold patterns, murals, and old wooden pillars. It’s a peaceful place, and visitors usually walk quietly to admire the details.
If they walk toward the back of the grounds, they’ll find a second temple and a striking golden stupa (chedi) that really stands out. The chedi used to be simple and white years ago, but today it’s fully covered in bright gold leaf, just like many other religious buildings in Chiang Mai that have been getting more golden over time.
A bit of history
Wat Phra Singh was founded in 1345 by King Phayu of the Lanna Kingdom to house the ashes of his father. The temple got its name from the Phra Singh Buddha image, which was brought to the temple from Chiang Rai. It became the temple’s most sacred statue, and many believe it gives the wat its spiritual power. The image is still kept in the small chapel called Viharn Lai Kham, which is known for its fine Lanna-style architecture and paintings.
The temple has been renovated several times over the centuries, especially during the reign of King Kawila in the early 1800s, when Chiang Mai was being rebuilt. Today, it remains an important centre for Buddhist ceremonies and is especially busy during Songkran (Thai New Year), when locals come to pay respect to the Phra Singh image.
Wat Phra Singh Info
Address: 2 Samlarn Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Phone: 099b249b9395
Open: 6 am – 7 pm
Entrance: free
Wat Phra Singh Map
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