1 / 5Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong Worawihan is a royal temple in Chom Thong district, about 58 km south of Chiang Mai on Route 108, right on the road to Doi Inthanon. It holds a relic of the Buddha, kept not sealed inside a stupa as is usual but in a small portable chedi inside the wihan, and its Lanna wihan dates from the 16th century. It is about 70 minutes by car from the Old City and about 60 minutes from Mae Hia, which is already on the south-west side of town. Entry is free.
Why go
For most visitors this temple is the first stop on a Doi Inthanon day, and it deserves more than a quick look. The wihan is one of the finest old Lanna buildings south of Chiang Mai, with a tall, layered roof, gilded wooden carving and a dim, richly decorated interior. Inside, behind the main Buddha image, a gilded shrine holds the small portable chedi with the relic, which is brought out for ceremonies on important days.
For Thai visitors the temple has a special meaning. In the northern tradition each year of the twelve-year cycle has its own relic temple, and Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong is the temple for people born in the Year of the Rat. Many come to pay respect on a birthday or before a new start.
The temple is also a well-known vipassana meditation centre, with foreign and Thai students on retreat. That gives the grounds a quiet, serious atmosphere even when the car park is full.
What to see
- The Lanna wihan: the main hall, from the 16th century, with a layered roof, gilded gables and carved wooden doors. Step inside slowly and let your eyes adjust to the low light.
- The relic shrine: behind the main Buddha image, a gilded shrine holds the portable chedi with the relic of the Buddha. Kneel and pay respect if you wish.
- The chedi: the tall chedi in the temple grounds, a landmark you see as you arrive.
- Wall decoration and carving: look for the details on the pillars, beams and doors, a good example of Lanna craftsmanship.
- The meditation area: the temple runs vipassana retreats. Keep your voice down near the meditation halls and respect signs asking for silence.
How to get there
- From the Old City
- about 70 minutes by car, south on Route 108 through Hang Dong and San Pa Tong. The temple is on the main road in Chom Thong town.
- From the airport or Mae Hia
- about 60 minutes by car. Mae Hia is already at the start of Route 108 south, so you skip the city traffic.
- By songthaew or Grab
- local songthaews run along Route 108 towards Chom Thong, but they are slow. Most visitors come with a Doi Inthanon tour, a car with driver or a Grab for the day.
- By own car
- the road is flat, wide and easy. There is parking beside the temple.
Tips
- Stop here early in the morning on the way up to Doi Inthanon, when the temple is quiet and the light is soft. Our Doi Inthanon day trip shows how to fit it into the day.
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Shoes off inside the wihan.
- Some inner areas of Lanna temples are closed to women. Follow any signs and ask if unsure.
- If you are born in the Year of the Rat, this is your relic temple. Bring flowers, candles and incense, or buy them at the temple.
- Chom Thong town has simple restaurants on the main road, good for breakfast before the mountain.
- After the temple, continue to Doi Inthanon National Park. On another day, compare it with the hilltop relic temple of Doi Suthep or the smaller Wat Phra That Doi Kham near Mae Hia.
FAQ
Is Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong free?
Yes. Entry is free, and donations are welcome.
Where is Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong?
In Chom Thong district, about 58 km south of Chiang Mai on Route 108, on the way to Doi Inthanon.
What is special about the relic?
It is kept in a small portable chedi inside the wihan, not sealed in a stupa.
Which birth year is Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong for?
It is the relic temple for people born in the Year of the Rat.
How long does it take from Mae Hia?
About 60 minutes by car via Route 108.
