Chiang Mai is a city of temples. In fact, there are more than 300 Buddhist temples scattered throughout the old city, surrounding neighborhoods and nearby mountains.

While they’re all worth visiting, three stood out to me the most. This article is part of a short series featuring some of my favorite temples in Chiang Mai.

• Wat Pha Lat: A hidden jungle temple on the slopes of Doi Suthep
• Wat Umong: The ancient tunnel temple (coming soon)
• Wat Chiang Man: Chiang Mai’s oldest temple (coming soon)

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know my love of old, faded, worn, peeling, rusty, cracked, imperfect buildings (and things!). So when I first saw Wat Pha Lat featured in a YouTube video (at 12:53), I immediately knew it was a must-see… even though it’s outside the city center and partway up a mountain…which I thought would be difficult to get to.

Wat Pha Lat, meaning “Monastery at the Sloping Rock,” is a serene 14th-century Buddhist temple hidden in the jungle of Doi Suthep–Pui National Park, just above the city of Chiang Mai.

Unlike the famous gold-covered Wat Phra That Doi Suthep higher up the mountain, Wat Pha Lat is a quiet forest retreat known for its moss-covered carvings, Burmese-style architecture, and a waterfall that flows through the temple grounds.

Often described as a hidden gem, the entire place feels peaceful and tucked away in the jungle.

Highlights

Ho Phra Chao Rim Nam

My favorite building was Ho Phra Chao Rim Nam, a striking aged white structure located right next to the stream. Its name translates to “Shrine with Buddha images next to the water.”

Built in a Burmese-colonial style between 1886 and 1898, it was carefully restored in 2019 after falling into severe disrepair.

It completely enchanted me the moment I saw it. I really wished I had a model with me for a photo shoot — it would have been spectacular. Maybe next time.

Ancient Chedi

Coins placed on the chedi and shrine areas at Wat Pha Lat are small offerings, meant to create good karma, bring a bit of luck, show respect, and help support the temple and its monks.

A moss-covered stone pagoda, which is one of the oldest structures on-site.

Exploring the Temple Grounds

I went early in the morning before there were many other visitors, and the grounds were quiet and peaceful. I could hear the small stream running towards the pond, and temple dogs were wandering around waiting for a pat from guests. The buildings were mostly on slightly different levels and the adjustment in heights made the whole place feel more spacious…with each structure having its own space and feel.

Jungle Setting

The city center below was almost invisible through the early morning haze, but you can just make it out if you zoom in,

Located on the slopes of Doi Suthep, the temple is surrounded by dense forest and small streams, with occasional glimpses of the Chiang Mai skyline through the jungle canopy.

Stone carvings, statues, and moss-covered walls appear throughout the grounds, giving the entire complex a quiet, timeless atmosphere.

Visitor Info

Hours
Generally open daily from 6:00am – 5:30pm

Entry
Access via the main road is usually free, though some national park trails may charge about 200 THB.

Dress Code
As with all temples, visitors should dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered.

Amenities
Basic restrooms and a small coffee stall are available.

Getting There

The Monk’s Trail

The most popular way to reach the temple is by hiking the Monk’s Trail (Pha Lat Trail); a 30–45 minute uphill walk through the forest starting near Chiang Mai University. On many websites this is described as an easy hike, and while it is not that steep, it is on uneven ground with tree roots and other things on the path. I would say it’s not for the unsteady. I certainly wouldn’t tackle it (see below how I got there).

By Road

You can also take a songthaew (red truck taxi), taxi, or scooter up the winding road toward Doi Suthep and stop at the temple entrance.

I took a Grab taxi from my Airbnb in Mueang Chiang Mai District (8.4 km / 5.2 miles), which cost 483 Baht ($14.89 USD).

On the way up, the driver asked how I was getting back. I admitted I didn’t know. He offered to wait and bring me back down for 300 Baht ($9.25 USD).

I told him I’d be about an hour…and sure enough, he was still there waiting when I returned. I ended up giving him 400 Baht for the return trip since he was so kind to offer to stay and wait for me.

The Thai people were always incredibly kind and helpful whenever I needed assistance.

More in This Series

This article is part of my Chiang Mai Temple Series exploring some of my favorite temples in northern Thailand.

• Wat Umong: The Ancient Tunnel Temple (coming soon)
• Wat Chiang Man: Chiang Mai’s Oldest Temple (coming soon)

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