Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan

A Sacred Masterpiece in the Heart of the Old City

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan (commonly known as Wat Phra Singh) is one of Chiang Mai’s most revered and visually spectacular Buddhist temples. Located inside the western gates of the historic Old City, this active monastery is a living showcase of classic Lanna-style art and architecture. Originally founded in 1345 by King Phayu of the Mangrai Dynasty to enshrine the ashes of his father, the temple was later bestowed the prestigious status of Royal Temple of the First Grade in 1935 by King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII).

Today, Wat Phra Singh remains a vital spiritual hub where visitors can admire shimmering golden chedis, exquisite wood carvings, and centuries-old murals that offer a window into Northern Thailand's rich cultural heritage.

Key Highlights & What to See

• Viharn Lai Kham (The Gilded Hall): This small but breathtaking assembly hall is the crown jewel of the complex. Built in the early 19th century, it features magnificent gold-leaf stenciling on red lacquer and houses the highly sacred Phra Buddha Sihing statue. The interior walls are adorned with beautifully preserved murals depicting local folklore (such as the Sang Thong tale) and historical Lanna court life.
• The Main Chedi: Originally built to hold royal ashes, this towering, gold-clad stupa glows brilliantly in the sunlight and is guarded by majestic elephant sculptures emerging from its base.
• Ho Trai (Scripture Library): Elevated on a high, decorated stone base to protect sacred Buddhist manuscripts from floods and pests, this wooden library is widely considered one of the finest examples of Lanna woodwork in Thailand.
• Viharn Luang: The grand, rebuilt main assembly hall that hosts large religious gatherings and features a massive, highly revered Buddha image.

Practical Information for Visitors

Wat Phra Singh is located at 2 Samlarn Rd, Tambon Phra Sing, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50280, Thailand.

Opening Hours

The temple grounds are open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The main assembly halls (viharns) generally open to the public from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Entrance Fee

While wandering the temple grounds is free, there is a small entry fee of approximately 40 to 50 THB for foreign visitors wishing to enter the main viharns (free for Thai nationals).

Dress Code & Etiquette

As an active place of worship, a strict dress code is enforced. Visitors must wear clothing that covers both shoulders and knees. Sarongs are typically available to borrow or rent near the entrance. Remember to remove your shoes before entering any temple building, keep your voice down, and avoid pointing your feet directly at any Buddha images.

Best Time to Visit

To experience the temple at its most peaceful, arrive early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) to beat the midday heat and the tour crowds. Alternatively, visiting in the late afternoon offers stunning, soft golden light that makes the gilded structures glow beautifully for photography. If you visit Chiang Mai in mid-April during Songkran (the Thai New Year), you can witness the sacred Phra Buddha Sihing statue being paraded through the streets for a traditional water-pouring ritual.

This article was updated on 2026-07-31