Wat Phra Singh in 360º

One of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples, Wat Phra Singh. Although it may not seem very special upon first glance as you enter the main gate, you look across and see the intricately carved building then you start to think perhaps there’s more to this place than meets the eye.

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Although it may not seem very special upon first glance as you enter the main gate, you’re greeted by a roundabout with a monument and a large parking area. When you look across and see the intricately carved front of the building then you start to think perhaps there’s more to this place than meets the eye.

Like all temples you have to leave your footwear outside and of coarse take off your hat. You have to pay 20 THB to enter the main hall which is only about 40p, but I think the rest of the gardens in the complex is free to wander if you don’t enter the main hall. Inside you’ll see some monks sat perfectly still and you’ll be amazed at how long they can remain still for. Are they even blinking? OK i’ve been staring at the same one now for what seems like ages and the dudes not moved an inch. These guys are freaking me out!!

Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai, Thailand — Wax works Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai

While walking around the gardens we came across the golden chedi, it’s particularly striking as the gleaming expanse glitters in the sunshine. It was just a shame while we there it was being renovated and had scaffolding covering it, but it was still a stunning thing to look at. It’s around 50 metres tall with an Elephant statue at each corner of the base.

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You’ll see many monks around the place as they live on the complex and they like to approach tourists to practice their English, so if you get a chance have a chat.

There are lots of brass monk statues situated around and as I found out earlier, they really have updated with the times. They have started to make waxwork replica statues, instead of the old school brass ones. They really do look life like from a distance, they even have hair. It’s like a version of madame tussauds for monks.

If your in the area then check this place out its definitely worth a visit.

Location/Facts

Located in the western part of the old city centre of Chiang Mai, which is contained within the city walls and moat.

The temple houses an important Buddha statue: the Phra Buddha Sihing which gives the temple its name. The temple’s main chedi, rising over a classic Lanna-style octagonal base, was constructed by King Pa Yo in 1345.

In 2013 a Wat was established in Runcorn in Cheshire, England with the support of Wat Phra Singh and the President of the Council for Thai Buddhist Monks in the UK. The former Waterloo Hotel was converted into a Buddhist temple by Wat Phra Singh UK where there are five resident monks.

The site has decent toilets and various stalls where you can buy water, flowers or souvenirs.

Price, 20 THB
Opening Times, 5am-8.30pm

Things To Do

Viharn Lai Kam – houses Phra Singh (Lion Buddha)
Vihan Luang – the larger main assembly hall.
Phrauposatha – the red-coloured wooden hall contains brass and wax monk statues.
Haw Trai – Library of buddhist scripture.
Ubosot

Getting There

Its very easy to get here, especially if like me your staying in or near the city quadrant. It’s easily within walking distance.