Rating: 4.4/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00–17.00

 

Wat Prasat, Chiang Mai Province, is an ancient temple that has long played an important role as a spiritual and cultural center for the local community in Chiang Mai’s Old City. The temple is located on Inthawarorot Road, Phra Sing Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District, close to Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan. Its location reflects Wat Prasat’s place within the traditional Lanna city layout and its historical connection to the ruling class and noble families of the past.

 

The principal Buddha image of Wat Prasat is a white stucco Buddha in the Mara-subduing posture, with a gentle and serene facial expression that inspires deep faith and devotion. This sacred image is enshrined within a traditional Lanna-style prasad shrine at the rear of the main viharn, accessed through an arched gateway. The shrine resembles a stupa, locally known as a “Ku Phra Chao,” and stands directly behind the viharn, making it a rare architectural feature seldom seen today.

 

It is believed that the principal Buddha image and the viharn were constructed at the same time, which explains the image’s great age and enduring spiritual significance. Visitors who come to pay respects often describe a profound sense of tranquility and sacredness within the shrine, offering a calm contrast to larger temples that are frequently crowded with tourists. As a result, Wat Prasat continues to serve as a quiet spiritual refuge for the local community.

 

Historical evidence from inscriptions at Wat Tapotharam indicates that Wat Prasat already existed around 1492 CE (B.E. 2035), during the period of Lanna prosperity under the reign of Phaya Yot Chiang Rai. Because the temple stood within an area associated with royal residences and noble quarters, it received continuous patronage and restoration. Even during the period of Burmese rule over Chiang Mai, Wat Prasat remained significant. In 1590 CE (B.E. 2133), Phraya Luang Saen Kham commissioned the casting of Phra Chao Muen Thong, a bronze Buddha image in the Mara-subduing posture, which was enshrined at the temple with inscriptions carved at its base.

 

Architecturally, Wat Prasat is an outstanding example of traditional Lanna craftsmanship. The main viharn is a well-preserved wooden structure built in the classic Lanna style. Its roof follows the distinctive “Ma Tang Mai” design, featuring layered roof tiers and stepped wooden beams resembling pack saddles used on horses. This structural style reflects the wisdom of Lanna builders, who designed buildings well suited to the local climate and available materials.

 

The viharn is approached by a naga staircase leading to the main hall. The front façade is adorned with intricate stucco decorations and colored glass, while the interior features traditional lai kham mural paintings on a deep red lacquer background. These murals depict scenes from the life of the Buddha in a refined and elegant style. Combined with natural light filtering through the structure, the interior atmosphere feels calm, contemplative, and ideal for unhurried appreciation.

 

Another remarkable element is the prasad shrine housing the principal Buddha image. Only a few examples of this architectural form survive in Chiang Mai today. The shrine reflects Lanna cosmological beliefs and Buddhist symbolism, enhancing Wat Prasat’s value as a living source of knowledge on traditional architecture and spiritual philosophy.

 

With its long history, sacred principal image, and valuable Lanna architecture, Wat Prasat is an important temple worthy of preservation as a religious, artistic, and cultural heritage site of Chiang Mai, ensuring that its legacy can be passed on to future generations.

 

Getting There From the Chiang Mai Old City moat area, begin on Ratchadamnoen Road heading west. Upon reaching the intersection near Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, turn onto Inthawarorot Road. Continue straight for approximately 150 meters, and Wat Prasat will appear on the right-hand side, close to Wat Phra Singh.

 

If traveling from Samlan Road, proceed into the Old City area. When you reach Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, turn onto Inthawarorot Road and continue for about 150 meters. Wat Prasat will be located on the right-hand side.

 

For those using public transportation, red songthaews, taxis, or ride-hailing applications are convenient options. Simply inform the driver that your destination is “Wat Prasat on Inthawarorot Road near Wat Phra Singh,” a location well known to most drivers.

 

 

A: Its highlights include the wooden viharn with a Ma Tang Mai roof structure and the rare Lanna-style prasad shrine housing the principal Buddha image.

 

A: The temple is ideal for visitors interested in Lanna history, traditional architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere for worship.

 

A: Yes. Due to its location near Wat Phra Singh and other Old City landmarks, it can easily be included in a walking itinerary.