Rating: 4.2/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 06.00–18.30

 

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, Chiang Mai is one of the most important temples in the history of the Lanna Kingdom and continues to serve as a spiritual and cultural center for the local community. Located on Sam Lan Road in Phra Sing Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District, within the Old City area, the temple is deeply woven into the everyday life, traditions, and collective memory of Chiang Mai. For visitors, Wat Phra Singh is not simply a beautiful city temple, but a living space where faith, history, and community remain closely connected.

 

According to historical records, Wat Phra Singh was founded in 1888 BE by King Phayu, the fifth ruler of the Mangrai Dynasty. The temple was constructed to enshrine the ashes of King Kham Fu, his father, within a stupa measuring 24 sok in height. From its earliest days, the temple played a central role in both religious and political life, gradually becoming one of the most significant monastic complexes in Chiang Mai.

 

The spiritual heart of Wat Phra Singh is the enshrinement of Phra Buddha Sihing, one of Chiang Mai’s most revered Buddha images. The image depicts the Buddha in the subduing Mara posture, seated in the diamond meditation position. According to legend, during the reign of King Saen Muang Ma, the seventh ruler of the Mangrai Dynasty, Phra Buddha Sihing was brought from Chiang Rai with the intention of being enshrined at Wat Suan Dok. However, when the royal procession reached Wat Li Chiang, the carriage was unable to move forward. Interpreting this as a sacred sign, the king ordered the image to be enshrined there instead. Over time, the image became affectionately known as “Phra Singh,” and the temple itself came to be known as Wat Phra Singh.

 

Each year during the Songkran Festival, Phra Buddha Sihing is ceremonially paraded around the city, allowing residents and visitors alike to pour water over the sacred image for blessings. This procession is one of the most important cultural events in Chiang Mai, vividly illustrating the enduring bond between Buddhist faith, seasonal traditions, and urban life.

 

Architecturally, Wat Phra Singh is a showcase of classical Lanna artistry. The most renowned structure is the Wihan Lai Kham, where Phra Buddha Sihing is enshrined. Inside, visitors can admire rare mural paintings depicting traditional Thai literary tales such as Suwannahong and Sang Thong, works that are unique to this temple. Other notable structures include the Lanna-style ordination hall, an intricately decorated scripture hall adorned with stucco angels, and a bell-shaped stupa in the Lanna tradition.

 

Beyond its historical and artistic value, Wat Phra Singh also holds deep spiritual significance. The main stupa of the temple is believed to be the natal stupa for those born in the Year of the Dragon. According to local belief, paying homage here at least once in a lifetime brings great merit, longevity, and prosperity.

 

In modern times, Wat Phra Singh continues to evolve as a welcoming public space. Facilities have been adapted to better accommodate elderly visitors and people with disabilities, including ramps in certain areas, clearly marked restroom signage, and separate restrooms for men, women, seniors, and children. These thoughtful additions reflect the temple’s ongoing role as a place for everyone in the community.

 

Getting There Wat Phra Singh is located within Chiang Mai’s Old City on Sam Lan Road. It is easily accessible by private car, songthaew (red truck), taxi, ride-hailing services, or on foot from nearby landmarks. Visitors driving themselves are advised to allow extra time for parking, especially on weekends and during festivals. Setting the destination as “Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan” on navigation apps will help ensure an easy arrival.

 

 

 

A: Early morning and late afternoon are ideal, as the weather is cooler and the temple is less crowded.

 

A: Visitors should dress modestly, avoiding short or revealing clothing, and maintain respectful behavior.

 

A: Phra Buddha Sihing is paraded through the city, allowing people to perform the traditional water-pouring ritual for blessings.

 

A: Access is generally possible, with ramps in certain areas and appropriate restrooms, but contacting the temple in advance is recommended.

 

A: You can call +66 53 711 735 or +66 53 744 523.