Wat Inthakhin (City Pillar) Chiang Mai
A serene Lanna temple in Chiang Mai's old city, once home to the sacred city pillar and rich in history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Wat Inthakhin (City Pillar) Chiang Mai
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Lanna temple in Chiang Mai's old city, once home to the sacred city pillar and rich in history.
"Beautiful old wooden temple, definitely worth a visit even though it won’t make it to a top 10 placement."
Free Entry & Modest Dress
Entry is free! Remember to dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered) and remove shoes before entering. :pray:
Short & Sweet Visit
Allocate about 10-15 minutes to explore this charming temple. Perfect for a quick cultural stop. :stopwatch:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The City Pillar (Inthakhin)
Main temple hall
The ancient wooden city pillar, believed to hold treasures and historical significance for Chiang Mai.
Lanna Architecture
Temple grounds
Admire the intricate details and serene beauty of traditional Northern Thai temple design.
Loy Krathong Spectacle
Temple grounds
During Loy Krathong, the temple is adorned with stunning colorful lanterns, creating a magical ambiance.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Respectful Attire and Customs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry & Modest Dress
Entry is free! Remember to dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered) and remove shoes before entering. :pray:
Short & Sweet Visit
Allocate about 10-15 minutes to explore this charming temple. Perfect for a quick cultural stop. :stopwatch:
Loy Krathong Magic
If visiting during Loy Krathong, expect beautiful lanterns and a lively, eye-catching atmosphere. :sparkler:
Central Location
Easily accessible on foot from the Three Kings Monument within the walled city. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry & Modest Dress
Entry is free! Remember to dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered) and remove shoes before entering. :pray:
Short & Sweet Visit
Allocate about 10-15 minutes to explore this charming temple. Perfect for a quick cultural stop. :stopwatch:
Loy Krathong Magic
If visiting during Loy Krathong, expect beautiful lanterns and a lively, eye-catching atmosphere. :sparkler:
Central Location
Easily accessible on foot from the Three Kings Monument within the walled city. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Wat Inthakhin to be a charming and historically significant temple, particularly beautiful during festivals like Loy Krathong when adorned with colorful lanterns. While small, its well-kept Lanna architecture and free entry make it a worthwhile, quick stop for those exploring Chiang Mai's old city.
"Beautiful temple that has its own unique charm 🥰. Love coming here during Loy Krathong festival, they hang up beautiful colorful lanterns all over and it’s so so eye catching and pretty!! 🏮❤️ Will always stop by here without fail. Sometimes the young monks will even release a few lanterns 😆."
Chinee Loh
"Very beautiful old wooden temple and just next to it a big old chedi. The temple is very well kept and beautiful both inside and outside. Definitely worth a visit even though it won’t make it to a top 10 placement of temples in Chiang Mai. Good place to spend 10-15 minutes"
Kasper Hammer-Hansen
"This is a small temple near the center of the city. Said to have been the place where King Mangrai was killed by a lightning strike, the stupa now houses his treasures. It's well worth a short visit to this small temple."
Bok “Doc Bok” McDonagh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Inthakhin is conveniently located within Chiang Mai's old city walls, making it easily accessible on foot, especially from the Three Kings Monument. You can also take a red songthaew (shared taxi) to the area.
No, Wat Inthakhin is right in the heart of the old city, so it's very central and easy to reach.
Absolutely! If you're exploring the old city, walking is a great way to discover Wat Inthakhin and other nearby attractions.
Walking is ideal for exploring the old city's temples. Alternatively, red songthaews are a popular and affordable option for getting around.
Parking can be challenging in the old city. It's best to rely on walking, songthaews, or consider parking a bit further out and walking in.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Wat Inthakhin is free to enter, making it an accessible cultural experience for all visitors.
While specific hours aren't always posted, temples in Chiang Mai are generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
There's no need to book tickets as entry is free. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
You are expected to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees out of respect for the sacred site.
Yes, you must remove your shoes before entering the main temple building (viharn) as a sign of respect.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 10-15 minutes is sufficient to appreciate the temple's charm and historical significance.
The City Pillar, or Inthakhin, is a sacred relic believed to be central to Chiang Mai's founding and prosperity, symbolizing the city's 'navel' or heart.
No, Wat Inthakhin is a relatively small temple, known for its intimate atmosphere and historical importance rather than its size.
Inside, you'll find the ancient wooden city pillar, religious artifacts, and beautiful Lanna-style decorations.
During festivals like Loy Krathong, the temple is beautifully decorated with lanterns, creating a magical spectacle.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed on the temple grounds, but be respectful and avoid taking photos inside the main prayer hall where it might be discouraged.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photography. During Loy Krathong, the evening lantern displays are spectacular.
The main wooden pillar and the intricate Lanna architecture of the temple buildings are popular subjects. The lanterns during festivals are also a must-capture.
Drone usage is generally restricted in temple areas and urban centers. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for most visitors. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, it will allow for more creative control, especially in low light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific child-focused activities, the visual appeal of the temple's architecture and, if visiting during a festival, the dazzling lanterns can captivate children. Remind them about the importance of respectful behavior, covering up, and removing shoes before entering.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
It offers a quick yet meaningful cultural experience, allowing you to appreciate traditional Lanna architecture and understand a piece of Chiang Mai's history without spending a baht. It’s a perfect addition to a day of exploring the old city on foot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Heart of Chiang Mai
Legend has it that King Mangrai, the founder of Chiang Mai, was struck by lightning at this very spot, and the stupa now houses his treasures. This deep connection to the city's origins makes Wat Inthakhin a place of reverence and historical contemplation for locals and visitors alike. The well-preserved Lanna architecture further enhances its historical charm.
While it may not be as grand as some of Chiang Mai's more famous temples, Wat Inthakhin offers a more intimate glimpse into the city's past. It's a place where you can feel the weight of history and appreciate the enduring cultural legacy of the Lanna Kingdom.
Experiencing Wat Inthakhin During Festivals
The visual display of lanterns, combined with the traditional Lanna architecture, makes for an unforgettable experience. Some visitors have even noted that young monks sometimes participate by releasing lanterns themselves, adding a special touch to the festivities.
While the festive atmosphere is enchanting, be prepared for larger crowds during these popular events. The beauty of the illuminated temple, however, is often considered well worth navigating the increased visitor numbers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit