Wat Dap Phai

Rating: 4/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 06.00–19.00

 

Wat Dap Phai is a historic temple located on Singharaj Road in the Si Phum Subdistrict of Chiang Mai’s Old City. Although it is not a large landmark temple, Wat Dap Phai continues to play an important role in the surrounding community and reflects the spiritual beliefs and everyday religious life of Lanna society. It is well suited for travelers who wish to explore Chiang Mai temples in a calm, authentic, and less crowded setting.

 

The temple was originally known as “Wat Aphai” and, according to some local traditions, also referred to as “Wat Tung Kradang.” Its current name, Wat Dap Phai, originates from a legend that has been passed down within the local community. According to this story, a nobleman named Phraya Aphai once fell seriously ill. After various treatments failed, he prayed with deep faith before Luang Pho Dap Phai, and his illness was said to have been miraculously cured.

 

In gratitude for this recovery, Phraya Aphai ordered his relatives and followers to settle around the temple area and supported the restoration and renovation of the temple buildings. From that time onward, the temple became known as Wat Dap Phai, a name that conveys the meaning of extinguishing danger, misfortune, and suffering. As a result, the temple is widely regarded as an auspicious place associated with protection, safety, and inner peace.

 

Architecturally, Wat Dap Phai preserves a simple form of traditional Lanna temple design. Rather than emphasizing grandeur, the temple conveys a sense of warmth, quiet dignity, and close connection to the surrounding neighborhood. One of its most distinctive features is the sacred well located in front of the vihara, which local residents believe possesses ritual and spiritual significance.

 

This sacred well is closely linked to Chiang Mai’s historical traditions. During the reign of Chao Inthawarorot, the eighth ruler of Chiang Mai, it was customary for him to stop at Wat Dap Phai upon returning from Bangkok. Water from this well was used for ritual purification and holy water blessings before he proceeded to Wat Chiang Yuen to perform a life-destiny renewal ceremony. This tradition highlights the temple’s role in both religious and royal ceremonial practices of the Lanna period.

 

Today, Wat Dap Phai remains an active community temple for residents of the Si Phum area and nearby neighborhoods. Worshippers regularly come to make merit, pray, and seek blessings, particularly related to health, personal safety, and the removal of misfortune. The overall atmosphere of the temple is peaceful and reflective, making it an ideal place to pause during a walk through Chiang Mai’s Old City.

 

Getting There Wat Dap Phai is located on Singharaj Road within Chiang Mai’s Old City. Visitors can reach the temple easily on foot from nearby attractions inside the city moat or by using local red songthaews, taxis, or private vehicles. Those traveling by car should allow extra time for parking, as traffic on Singharaj Road can be busy at certain times of the day.

 

 

A: Wat Dap Phai is located on Singharaj Road in the Si Phum Subdistrict of Chiang Mai’s Old City.

 

A: The temple’s name and legend are associated with protection, healing, and the removal of misfortune.

 

A: The well is believed to be spiritually significant and was historically used in royal purification rituals during the Lanna period.

 

A: No, admission is free. Visitors may make donations according to personal faith.

 

A: The temple can be contacted by phone at +66 53 222 964.