Wat Phra That Doi Kham Chiang Mai
A majestic temple atop a mountain, featuring a giant golden Buddha and stunning Chiang Mai vistas. A must-visit for culture and views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures & fewer crowds
Wat Phra That Doi Kham Chiang Mai
Best Time
Cooler temperatures & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic temple atop a mountain, featuring a giant golden Buddha and stunning Chiang Mai vistas. A must-visit for culture and views.
"Short, beautiful hike with an impressive temple at the top!"
💧 Stay Hydrated!
It gets very hot, especially on the white tiles. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Good walking shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Sitting Buddha
Main temple complex
An imposing 17-meter golden Buddha statue, a truly awe-inspiring sight that dominates the temple grounds.

Panoramic City Views
Viewing terrace
Soak in breathtaking vistas of Chiang Mai and the surrounding Hang Dong area from this scenic vantage point.

The Naga Staircase
Entrance to the temple
Ascend the iconic, serpent-like Naga staircase, a traditional and visually striking entrance to the sacred site.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Getting There: Options Galore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Stay Hydrated!
It gets very hot, especially on the white tiles. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Good walking shoes are a must.
Chiang Mai Must do‘s?
Chiang Mai in 2 days
🚖 Grab vs. Red Truck
Grab can be tricky for return trips. Red trucks are readily available for descent.
🚶 Monk's Trail Option
For an adventurous start, hike the Monk's Trail and then take a red truck down.
Is it possible to take a Grab (and back) to most popular "far away" attractions?
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Stay Hydrated!
It gets very hot, especially on the white tiles. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Good walking shoes are a must.
🚖 Grab vs. Red Truck
Grab can be tricky for return trips. Red trucks are readily available for descent.
🚶 Monk's Trail Option
For an adventurous start, hike the Monk's Trail and then take a red truck down.
🙏 Dress Respectfully
Cover your shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred Buddhist site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Phra That Doi Kham for its stunning golden Buddha, breathtaking city views, and the rewarding climb up the Naga staircase. The temple offers a serene atmosphere and a beautiful escape from the city bustle. However, be prepared for intense heat, especially on sunny days, and the need for comfortable footwear due to the extensive walking and stairs.
"Short, beautiful hike with an impressive temple at the top! We are traveling in May so it was HOT and fair warning that the temple is extra hot. Not a ton of shade, and the sun bakes the white tiles which reflect back to you. Definitely be prepared with water, electrolytes, sunscreen, and a hat. A portable fan wouldn’t hurt either.
If you want to hike to the top, you have to get dropped off at the parking lot/market across from Cup Fine Day. Keep in mind that it is more than just the dragon stair case you’ll have to climb. There’s about 300 steps through the forest and the staircase itself is about 180. There’s a sign that says it’s 1.5 kilometers, but that seemed like too much. It’s really quite short, but it’s steep.
If you’re not up for the hike but still want to take the dragon stairs, you’ll have to get dropped off at the top of the temple and then walk down the stairs to walk up them. There’s not car drop-off zone at the bottom of the staircase.
If you can, we definitely recommend the whole hike :) the forest is beautiful and you’ll see some cool animals. We saw a peacock!!"
Emma Radebaugh
"Very beautiful Wat. It was a very hot day so we drove up. They have some very impressive statues. There are side shops that sell some things. Bathrooms are traditional no paper down the toilet type and were fairly clean when I used them."
Nick p
"It started raining after I came out from praying that day. I sat and waited for the rain to stop. The sound of wind chimes was very soothing.🙏"
Uncle Mike
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have several options! Many visitors opt for a Grab, though getting a return trip can sometimes be challenging.
Red trucks are a very popular and affordable choice, readily available in the city and waiting at the temple for your descent. For the adventurous, the Monk's Trail offers a scenic hike up, with red trucks available at the top for the ride down.While you can get a Grab to the temple, some travelers have reported difficulty securing a return trip, as drivers may prefer round trips.
It's often easier to arrange a return with a local red truck.The Monk's Trail is a hiking path that leads up to Wat Phra That Doi Kham. It's a more immersive way to reach the temple, offering a chance to connect with nature before reaching the sacred site.
Yes, red trucks are a common and convenient way to reach Wat Phra That Doi Kham. They can be found in various parts of Chiang Mai and will wait at the temple for your return journey.
The travel time to Wat Phra That Doi Kham from Chiang Mai city typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions and your mode of transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit Wat Phra That Doi Kham. However, donations are always welcome to help maintain the temple grounds.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham is typically open daily from early morning until late evening, allowing visitors to experience it at different times of the day. It's best to check locally for any specific hours.
No, advance booking is not required for Wat Phra That Doi Kham as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously.
Yes, as with most temples in Thailand, it's important to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
Yes, many tour groups visit Wat Phra That Doi Kham. However, visiting independently allows for more flexibility and a personalized experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the impressive 17-meter sitting Buddha statue, the ornate golden carvings, the Naga staircase, and stunning panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
Yes, there is a significant amount of walking and climbing involved, especially if you choose to hike the Monk's Trail or ascend the Naga staircase. Comfortable shoes are essential.
The viewing terrace offers incredible cityscapes, while the golden Buddha statue and the Naga staircase provide iconic shots. The intricate details of the temple architecture are also very photogenic.
Yes, restrooms are available at the temple complex. They are traditional Thai style, so be prepared for that.
Yes, there are shops on-site where you can purchase souvenirs, local crafts, and other items.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food stalls and small eateries located at the temple complex where you can purchase snacks and local dishes.
You can typically find a variety of Thai street food and local snacks. It's a good place to grab a quick bite while enjoying the temple.
It's a convenient option for a quick meal, but for a wider culinary experience, consider dining in Chiang Mai city before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography. The 'golden hour' before sunset provides a warm, beautiful glow.
Generally, photography is allowed in most areas. However, always be respectful and avoid taking photos of people without their permission, especially monks.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the grand Buddha statue and the scenic views. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the temple architecture.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and national parks. It's best to assume drones are not permitted to avoid any issues.
The 17-meter golden Buddha, the Naga staircase, and the panoramic views from the terrace are prime photography locations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are food options available, packing some familiar snacks for picky eaters is always a good idea. The panoramic views from the terrace can also be a great way to engage kids with the geography of the area. Ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for walking and plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Getting around is manageable; red trucks are readily available for transport, and you can easily strike up conversations with other travelers or locals. The temple's grandeur and the stunning views provide ample opportunities for contemplation and a sense of accomplishment.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to capture the intricate details of the temple's architecture and the vastness of the landscape. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day can create dynamic and captivating images. Be sure to visit during the 'golden hour' for the most magical light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Wat Phra That Doi Kham
When considering transportation, it's worth noting that some Grab drivers might prefer round trips, so booking a one-way might require a bit more effort. Alternatively, red trucks are usually waiting at the temple's base, making the descent straightforward. If you choose the Monk's Trail, you'll likely need to arrange a red truck or Grab from the trailhead back to the city. The journey itself is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of the lush northern Thai landscape.
Experiencing the Sacred Atmosphere
Beyond the main structures, the viewing terrace offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of Chiang Mai and the surrounding countryside. This is a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of the region. Remember to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect for the sacred nature of the temple. The sound of wind chimes can also add to the tranquil ambiance, especially if you happen to visit during a gentle breeze or a passing shower.
Photography Tips for Doi Kham
When composing your shots, consider the architectural details of the temple, such as the ornate roofs and decorative elements. The contrast between the golden statues and the lush green surroundings can also create beautiful imagery. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. While drones are generally not permitted at religious sites, your smartphone or camera will be more than capable of capturing the essence of this beautiful temple.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit