Chiang Mai Landmarks, Temples and Monuments

(Chiang Mai, Thailand)

Home to more than 300 different, elaborate Buddhist temples (wats), Chiang Mai is a historian's paradise, full of tourist appeal and ancient landmarks. Amongst the most notable temples and landmarks in Chiang Mai, a handful stand out and include the Wat Chiang Man on Ratchaphakhinai Road, the Wat Chedi Luang on Th Phra Pokklao Road, and also the Wat Phra Singh on Singharat Road.

The Doi Suithep mountain is known for its breathtaking views and ornate Buddhist temple, while for many, the stunning gardens surrounding the Royal Winter Palace (Phu Phing Palace) are equally impressive in their own right. Chiang Mai's main landmarks and temples are below.

Phu Phing Palace (Royal Winter Palace)

Address: Huay Keaw Road, Chiang Mai, 50300, Thailand, TH
Located around 22 km / 14 miles from Chiang Mia city centre, the Phu Phing Palace was constructed in 1962 and is situated close to the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. The beautifully landscaped gardens are opened to members of the public each Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and also during official holidays, providing that the Thai royal family is not actually in residence. You can expect to see many exotic flowers and plenty of seasonal interest.
Open hours: Friday to Sunday - 08:30 to 23:30
Admission: charge

Tha Pae Gate

Address: Moon Muang Road, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, TH
One of the most significant historic landmarks within the city of Chiang Mai, the Tha Pae Gate is one of the main gateways into the Old City district. In total there are five main city gates, of which the Tha Pae Gate is the most important and dates back to the latter part of the 13th century.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Wat Chedi Luang

Address: Th Phra Pokklao Road, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 053 278 595
The attractive Wat Chedi Luang temple complex is sited within a large plot of land, next to the Th Phra Pokklao. Although the temple is now partly ruined, following an earthquake during the 16th century and also cannon fire at the end of the 18th century, there is still plenty to enjoy, thanks to extensive restoration work. Look out for the elephant sculptures on the southern side of the temple.
Open hours: daily - 07:00 to 19:00
Admission: free

Wat Chiang Man

Address: Ratchaphakhinai Road, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, TH
Chiang Mai's most historic temple, Wat Chiang Man was built more than 700 years ago, at the end of the 13th century. Sited on the north-eastern side of the city, this grand temple boasts traditional northern Thailand architecture, with the interior featuring a series of enormous teak columns. Other highlights include a couple of important Buddha images, which are displayed within a glass cabinet.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

Address: Huay Keaw Road, Chiang Mai, 50300, Thailand, TH
Constructed during the latter part of the 14th century and located on the very outskirts of Chiang Mai, the Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep temple enjoys an elevated setting. The temple's breathtaking golden spire is hard to miss and it is worth coming here for the cityscape views alone.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge

Wat Suan Dok

Address: Suthep Road, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 053 278 304
Built within a forest grove in 1373, the Wat Suan Dok temple can be found of the western side of Chiang Mai and was once regularly visited by Phra Sumana Thera, a famous teaching monk from the Sukhothai area. With a giant 500-year-old bronze Buddha, many colourful murals, precious Buddhist literature and priceless amulets, the grounds afford endless photo opportunities and are also home to a small Buddhist university.
Open hours: daily - 07:00 to 19:00
Admission: charge

Wat Phra Singh

Address: Singharat Road, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, TH
Located at the very end of Ratchadamnoen Road, the Wat Phra Singh temple lies in the heart of Chiang Mai and was founded during the 1300s. Much of the structure itself has since been restored, although it still retains its original character. One of the city's most important historic temples, the Wat Phra Singh has become known for its maroon interior and its 15th-century Phra Singh Buddha.
Open hours: daily - 07:00 to 19:00
Admission: charge

Wat Ku Tao

Address: Chang Puak, Chiang Mai, Thailand, TH
Tel: +66 053 273 990
Wat Ku Tao is often known as the 'Watermelon Temple' due to its distinctive spheres on the spire (chedi). Located on the northern side of Chiang Mai Station, this elaborate temple dates back to 1613 and also boasts a number of amusing sculptures, which can be found on the temple's outer wall.
Open hours: daily - 07:00 to 19:00
Admission: charge