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Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00–17.00

 

Wat Phan Tao, Chiang Mai, is an important temple in the Old City that has long served as a spiritual and cultural center for the local community. Located on Phra Pok Klao Road in Phra Sing Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District, the temple stands adjacent to Wat Chedi Luang Worawihan. Its position at the historic Klang Wiang intersection firmly connects Wat Phan Tao to the religious, political, and artistic history of Chiang Mai.

 

The most distinctive feature of Wat Phan Tao is its large teakwood viharn. Originally, this structure was not built as a temple hall but served as a “Ho Kham,” or the front throne hall of Chao Mahotraprathet, a northern ruler of the Kawila dynasty. The building reflects traditional Lanna wooden architecture, symbolizing the authority and status of northern royalty. During the reign of Chao Inthawichayanon, the structure was dismantled and reconstructed here as a viharn, dedicated to the temple.

 

The entrance arch of the viharn is adorned with exquisitely carved wooden peacocks. In northern Thai culture, the peacock symbolizes nobility, elegance, and royal dignity. These carvings are not merely decorative but serve as valuable artistic evidence of the relationship between political power, Buddhism, and Lanna cultural identity.

 

Regarding its origins, there is no clear historical record indicating when Wat Phan Tao was first established. However, local tradition suggests that the area once housed numerous furnaces used to cast Phra Attharot, the large standing Buddha image enshrined at Wat Chedi Luang. The name “Phan Tao” is believed to have originated from these furnaces, eventually becoming the temple’s name.

 

In local Lanna pronunciation, the name “Phan Tao” was traditionally spoken as “Pan Tao” or “Phan Thao,” conveying a meaning of abundance and prosperity multiplied many times over. This interpretation reflects Lanna beliefs that closely connect religion with fertility, growth, and the enduring stability of the city.

 

Wat Phan Tao also played a significant role within Chiang Mai’s monastic hierarchy. Around 1805, Phra Sathu Khamphira of Wat Phan Tao was elevated to the position of Sangharaja, highlighting the temple’s high status. During this period, even Wat Chedi Luang, one of the city’s major temples, was administratively affiliated with Wat Phan Tao for ordination ceremonies.

 

Traditions and Ritual Significance Although Wat Phan Tao does not host a distinct annual festival of its own, it is closely associated with the Inthakhin Ceremony (Sai Khan Dok), one of Chiang Mai’s most important traditions. Held every year around May (the waning 12th day of the 8th lunar month in the northern calendar) at Wat Chedi Luang, this ritual is believed to protect and bless the city. Due to its proximity and central location, Wat Phan Tao and the surrounding community actively participate in preparations and share the ceremonial atmosphere, reinforcing its role as part of Chiang Mai’s cultural heart.

 

Architecturally, the teakwood viharn of Wat Phan Tao stands as a rare and valuable example of traditional Lanna wooden construction. The structure emphasizes durability, climate-appropriate roofing, and refined craftsmanship, showcasing the skills of northern artisans. Recognizing its cultural importance, the temple was officially registered as a national monument in 1977, with clearly defined conservation boundaries.

 

Despite being surrounded today by heavy traffic, commercial buildings, and the dense urban environment of central Chiang Mai, Wat Phan Tao continues to retain its cultural and historical significance. It remains a place where locals and visitors alike can encounter tangible traces of the past within a living, evolving city.

 

Getting There Wat Phan Tao is located on Phra Pok Klao Road in the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City. From Tha Phae Gate, enter the moat area and drive south along Phra Pok Klao Road; the temple is easily recognizable next to Wat Chedi Luang. From Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, turn onto Phra Pok Klao Road and continue for approximately 700 meters. Public transportation such as red songthaews or taxis is convenient—simply state your destination as “Wat Phan Tao near Wat Chedi Luang.”

 

 

A: Its teakwood viharn, originally a royal hall, and the intricately carved peacock motifs that reflect Lanna royal symbolism.

 

A: Yes. The temple is closely associated with the Inthakhin Ceremony, a key annual ritual held at nearby Wat Chedi Luang to bless and protect the city.

 

A: Absolutely. Its location next to Wat Chedi Luang and near Wat Phra Singh makes it ideal for a walking temple route within Chiang Mai’s Old City.