Wat Si Don Chai

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08.00 – 17.00

 

Wat Sri Don Chai is an ancient temple of great historical significance to Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province, and is widely recognized as the first temple established in Pai when the town began to take shape as a formal settlement. The temple is located at No. 18, Moo 8, Wiang Nuea Subdistrict, Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province. It was originally known as “Wat Luang Sahri Bua Ban” and continues to serve as a spiritual center for the local community to this day. From a tourism perspective, the value of this temple extends beyond its age; it stands out as a place where visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Pai’s history, Lanna cultural roots, connections with the Tai Yai community, and the beliefs that have shaped this small valley town over time.

 

One of the defining features that elevates Wat Sri Don Chai above other temples in Pai is that it enshrines the revered “Phra Buddha Sihing”, locally known as “Phra Singh Pai”. This Chiang Saen-style Buddha image (Singha I style) is regarded as the most ancient and sacred Buddha statue in Pai and serves as a spiritual cornerstone of the town. The statue is not only an exquisite work of art but also a powerful symbol that connects the people of Pai to their past. During important festivals, merit-making ceremonies, or times when the community seeks spiritual strength, Phra Singh Pai is always central to their faith and devotion.

 

For travelers planning a visit to Pai, Wat Sri Don Chai can be summarized as a must-visit destination for those who want to understand the true identity of the town beyond its walking streets or natural scenery. The temple brings together history, faith, Lanna-Burmese architectural influence, and the origin stories of Pai in one place. Visiting here is not merely about paying respect to a sacred site; it is about experiencing the essence of Pai in a quiet, meaningful, and deeply cultural dimension.

 

The history of Wat Sri Don Chai, as passed down through generations, is closely linked to the early settlement of the area. It is said that in the past, Phra Ka Mong So led his forces to establish a community in this region. During that time, the first temple was constructed and named “Wat Ban Don Chong Mai”, serving as a place for merit-making for soldiers and local residents.

 

Later, in 1477 (B.E. 2020), King Tilokaraj of the Lanna Kingdom commanded Chao Maha Chiwit Sri Chaiya (Phra Chao Sri Jai), his grandson, to lead troops along with two white elephants, namely Plai Phueak Thao Mongkhon and Plai Kaew Mongkhon, to conquer this area from its previous rulers. After the victory, both elephants fled into the forest. When soldiers searched for them, they were eventually found near a stream in a forested area.

 

After bringing the elephants back and reporting to Chao Maha Chiwit Sri Chaiya, he remarked that the river where the elephants were found should be named “Pai River”, derived from the northern term for male elephant, “Chang Pai”. As the settlement grew and prospered, the town was eventually named “Pai” after the river.

 

 

A: It is considered the first temple of Pai and houses the sacred Phra Buddha Sihing, the spiritual symbol of the town.

 

A: No, entry is free for all visitors.

 

A: The most important highlight is Phra Singh Pai, an ancient Chiang Saen-style Buddha image.

 

A: It is located in Wiang Nuea Subdistrict, Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province.

 

A: The temple is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00.