Wat Hang Dong

Rating: 4.3/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 06.00–18.00 (recommended in the morning or before evening)

 

Wat Hang Dong is a local Buddhist temple under the Maha Nikaya sect, located in Hang Dong Subdistrict, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai Province. It is an old temple deeply rooted in the community and historically known by earlier names such as “Wat San Don Kaew” or “Wat Don Kaew,” later “Wat Ban Dong,” before becoming known as Wat Hang Dong as it is today. The temple is valued not for grandeur, but for its calm atmosphere, fine craftsmanship, and the quiet sense of belonging it offers to visitors.

 

Regarding its founding date, local oral history suggests the temple was established around 2320 BE, while official religious records commonly cite approximately 2027 BE, during the late reign of King Tilokkarat (1985–2030 BE). This period marked a high point in Lanna art and architecture. The craftsmanship visible throughout the temple—especially in its main hall—reflects Lanna aesthetics that emphasize harmony, delicacy, and devotion rather than monumentality.

 

The architectural highlight of Wat Hang Dong is its viharn (assembly hall), regarded as one of the most beautiful examples of Lanna-style architecture in the area. Its overall form closely resembles the viharn of Wat Ton Kwen (Wat Intharawat) in Hang Dong District, which dates to the early 25th Buddhist century. This similarity suggests that Wat Hang Dong’s viharn was likely built during the same period. The viharn features a side-projecting porch (muk yuen), a typical layout of Lanna viharns from that era, lending elegance without relying on scale.

 

Distinctive details include finely crafted stucco reliefs on the gable and interior columns, showcasing the skill of Lanna artisans. Inside, partially completed mural paintings remain visible, offering insight into traditional painting techniques and artistic intent. Another significant artifact is a red-lacquered wooden pulpit inlaid with gold patterns and glass mosaics, a Lanna artwork from the 25th Buddhist century, measuring approximately 149 centimeters in width and length and 492 centimeters in height—an important and rare cultural treasure.

 

The temple complex includes the essential structures of a traditional Lanna community temple, such as the ordination hall (ubosot), sermon hall, monks’ residences, and alms hall. A beautifully cast bronze Buddha image in Lanna style serves as a principal sacred object. Locals believe that paying respect here brings good fortune and lasting auspiciousness, and many visitors come to seek blessings for stability, peace of mind, and family well-being.

 

Wat Hang Dong continues to play an important role in local traditions, hosting annual merit-making activities according to the Buddhist calendar and Lanna customs. These include observance days, Tan Kuay Salak ceremonies, Songkran in Lanna style, Buddhist Lent and its conclusion, and Kathin and Pha Pa robe-offering ceremonies. Such events reinforce the temple’s role as a spiritual and social center that binds the community together.

 

Getting There From Chiang Mai city, drive toward Hang Dong District and set your navigation to “Wat Hang Dong.” The temple is accessible via local community roads suitable for both cars and motorcycles. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, remove shoes before entering sacred buildings, and maintain a quiet demeanor within the temple grounds.

 

 

A: The temple is known for its elegant Lanna-style viharn, fine stucco craftsmanship, historical pulpit, and its long-standing role as a peaceful community temple.

 

A: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal, as the weather is pleasant and the atmosphere is calm.

 

A: Locals believe that paying respect at Wat Hang Dong brings lasting good fortune, peace of mind, and stability in life.

 

A: Visitors should dress modestly, with covered shoulders and knees, remove shoes before entering sacred buildings, and behave respectfully.