Wat Uppakhut (Wat Phra Uppakhut)

Rating: 3.4/5 (12 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 06.30–18.00

 

Wat Uppakhut (Wat Phra Uppakhut) is a small community temple that holds a significant place in Lanna beliefs. It is located on Tha Phae Road near Nawarat Bridge in Mueang Chiang Mai District. Although the temple sits in a lively area filled with commerce and tourism, once you step inside, the atmosphere becomes calm, simple, and warmly welcoming—very much like an old-city temple that still feels alive and rooted in everyday local life.

 

Wat Uppakhut is also known as “Wat Phra Uppakhut,” and in some local communities people refer to it as “Phra Bua Khem.” This name is linked to the fact that the main Buddha image in the viharn is Phra Uppakhut. In Lanna culture, devotion to Phra Uppakhut is closely associated with protection, overcoming obstacles, subduing negative forces, and helping important events or undertakings proceed smoothly. That is why many worshippers—especially merchants, vendors, and travelers—often stop by to pay respects before beginning something important in life.

 

From the perspective of urban history, there is no definitive evidence pinpointing the exact founding year of Wat Uppakhut. However, its location offers a key clue. The temple stands in the Tha Phae area, long regarded as one of Chiang Mai’s economic gateways. Especially after the construction of Nawarat Bridge and the expansion of roads in the early 20th century (early 25th Buddhist century), this area became a hub for trade, transportation, and contact with the outside world. Wat Uppakhut grew alongside Chiang Mai’s development into a modern city.

 

Because of this, the role of Wat Uppakhut extends beyond religious rites. It also serves as a “place of the heart” for people in the trading district. This small temple by a main road has long supported the hopes, worries, and faith of those who face the uncertainties of city life.

 

The ritual that made Wat Uppakhut widely known is the midnight alms-giving to Phra Uppakhut on the full moon that falls on a Wednesday, called “Peng Phut” (in some areas, “Peng Pood”). According to local belief, Phra Uppakhut will transform into a novice monk and go out on alms round at midnight. Those who make offerings on this night believe they receive powerful merit, help dispel misfortune, and gain blessings for a smoother life.

 

The atmosphere of midnight alms-giving in the heart of Chiang Mai is a vivid reflection of Lanna identity. People gather respectfully, preparing modest offerings—not extravagant, but sincere. In that sense, the ceremony becomes both an act of merit-making and a way for people to steady their hearts and reset their inner balance.

 

Inside the viharn, Phra Uppakhut is enshrined as the principal image, surrounded by murals depicting Jataka tales and Buddhist moral teachings. These artworks are not only valuable in artistic terms but also serve as evidence of Lanna ways of life and worldview from the period when they were created.

 

Because the temple is well connected to many important landmarks, Wat Uppakhut is ideal for a walking route through the old city area. You can start at Tha Phae Gate, stop to pay respects at Wat Uppakhut, then continue on to Warorot Market (Kad Luang) or the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar in the evening. It is a route that blends religion, culture, and city life in a beautifully balanced way.

 

Getting There The temple is located on Tha Phae Road near the base of Nawarat Bridge. It is easy to reach by private car, red truck taxis (songthaews), public transport, or on foot from Tha Phae Gate. However, parking along the main road can be limited, so it is recommended to allow extra time for finding a spot.

 

 

A: It is a key place of devotion to Phra Uppakhut, who is believed in Lanna tradition to protect people and help dispel obstacles and misfortune.

 

A: It refers to a full moon night that falls on a Wednesday. Local belief says Phra Uppakhut will go on an alms round at midnight on that night.

 

A: Yes. Visitors are welcome, but should dress modestly, behave respectfully, and follow the community’s temple etiquette.

 

A: Morning is best for a quiet worship experience, while late afternoon or evening is ideal if you plan to continue walking around the old city and nearby districts.

 

A: The temple is close to Nawarat Bridge, Tha Phae Gate, Warorot Market, and the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.