Wat Pha Lat image

Wat Pha Lat

Tourist attraction Buddhist temple

One of the Best Places To Visits in Ban Sai Kham


Address

บ้านห้วยผาลาด 101, Sriwichai Alley, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

Website

www.facebook.com

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (4.4K reviews)

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Working Hours

  • Sunday: 6 am to 6 pm
  • Monday: (Māgha Pūjā (Observed)), 6 am to 6 pm, Hours might differ
  • Tuesday: 6 am to 6 pm
  • Wednesday: 6 am to 6 pm
  • Thursday: 6 am to 6 pm
  • Friday: 6 am to 6 pm
  • Saturday: 6 am to 6 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: temple (65) Chiang (24) beautiful (21) visit (18) peaceful (16) trail (15) temples (14) waterfall (13) serene (13) walk (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 M M. 2 years ago on Google
    It's a hidden gem. What a beautiful, peaceful and quiet place with a small water fall, mountain view and forest settings. Mature trees and bamboo trees. A few monks there meditating and a few people there to enjoy the beautiful architecture of temple and monestry. There's a walking trail there you can walk for hours but take a plenty of water to hydrate yourself as it can be very hot. I truly enjoyed this place and recommended for nature lovers. If you are a meditator, you will love the peacefulness in this place.
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Han L. 4 months ago on Google • 255 reviews
    Breathtaking. Zen. Best temple in my visit to Chiang Mai. If I were to choose one, I will choose this hidden temple. Will recommend an at least one way monks trail walk to this temple despite it being accessible by car. The place is just epitome of mindfulness. Many spots for you to just sit, be still, meditate and be at one with Buddha, be at peace with one self. The coconut ice cream at the entrance is very thick and nice too. Set aside more time for this small temple, which also has great views of Chiang Mai city. Would love to stay there longer!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Ahmad 5 months ago on Google • 246 reviews
    A little temple near a small waterfall. Part of the temple is inside a small cave, next to the water-stream and is worth a look. If not congested, one can relax and take in the serenity of the natural environment. Provides glimpses of Chiang-Mai city down in the valley below. Haze however obscures Chiang-Mai in the distance. A pleasant stopover on the way to the major and impressive golden temple at the summit of the mountains if time permits. No tickets required.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kimberly Q. 4 months ago on Google • 135 reviews
    Beautiful area to walk thru. Very peaceful and serene with So many photo opportunities. Be sure to dress appropriately here. Pants or long skirt and shoulders are covered completely. You can easily spend an hour if you walk straight thru. You will want to sit and take some of this beauty in. There are quite a few steps and some steps down to things and might be slick so be careful if your footing is not good. A definite must see and free.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Divjot S. 2 months ago on Google • 143 reviews New
    Beautiful temple surrounded by beautiful trees and constant pleasant sounds of a waterfall. We went there in the evening, just 30 mins before its closing time as per Google, and it was completely fine. We came via a two wheeler and we were able to directly reach the place without having to trek. We actually loved the evening time as it gave the place a very warm look. Overall it's a must visit from our side as it really calms you down. Take a moment to just sit back and meditate on the beauty of the place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chawin O. 2 years ago on Google
    After 4 decades of many attempts, me and my family trooper has already succeeded in visiting this long-established temple. Instantly stunned by the intensive tranquility and exquisiteness of architecture. In our consensus, this place was best suitable for meditation and finding inner peace within the natural embrace. Looking forward to coming back again, especially when rainy season started to subside to discover another aspect of its amazingness.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jan Willem G. 3 months ago on Google • 101 reviews New
    You can’t leave Chiang Mai without visiting the temples on this sacred site. It’s wonderful how the temples and nature have become one. Although the temples are well maintained they have grown green from plants, which gives them their own look and character. Magnificent! The path towards the temples is quite easy in dry season. It takes you approx 30 minutes to reach the temples.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 amie k. 2 months ago on Google • 152 reviews New
    A quick trip from the infamous overcrowded, loud, and touristy Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, is a serene peaceful Wat Pha Lat, a Buddhist temple. And we want to keep it that way; serene, peaceful, and no vendor selling tacky souvenirs. Actually, there's no vendor at all (we were there on Sunday). You can easily spend a solid hour in peace and harmony, and not with rude tourists who shows no respect to the temples and other cultures. Who walks around in their short and no shirt in their church, cathedral or synagogue? Seriously?? I digress. There are many, many splendid temple structures, beautiful trees and gardens, and great views as well. It's a serene peaceful temple.

  • 5/5 Jc 1 year ago on Google
    Wow. What else could I say... I hiked the Monk's Trial spontaneously whilst in Chiang Mai. I was greeted with this minor paradise at the end of the trail. As I was short on time, I took an open back taxi to the start of the trail, hiked up and spent a good few hours at this location. A wonderful, tranquil Buddhist site amongst the hills that I wanted to stay at much longer than I could in the end. If you have the chance to visit, please do.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 MsLillilli 3 months ago on Google • 43 reviews New
    In my opinion the most beautiful and actually most honest Buddhist Temple. Not so much glitz and glam, it’s serene and calm. It’s down to earth and tranquil. You can get there via the Monk’s trail, which is a 45 minute hike. Make sure to wear the right shoes. Flipflops won’t do. There’s just a small group of monks living there, this area is private and should be respected as such. As well as the dress code! There were lots of tourists with complete disregard for the etiquette. Please, don’t be that person!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bentraveller 7 months ago on Google
    It's like in the other world after you step in the temple, green energy , spiritual and peaceful environment. Probably one of the best temple so far. Waterfall is very pretty !!! And the view of Chiang Mai city is a bonus :D
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chayut O. 1 year ago on Google
    Probably the most favourite place in Chiang Mai. Beautiful temple with architectural history. Jedi aged more then 700 years old, build before Chiang Mai itself. Peaceful calm water stream run through. Sit on the rock and hear water run, birds sing and crickets sound amid the nature. Best place for meditation.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Erez P. 1 year ago on Google
    Probably the most amazing, most beautiful, most special and most charming temple I have seen in Thailand out of 20 temples I visited. I cab stay here all day. It feels holy, and very welcoming. The sound of the water, birds and trees just adding to the atmosphere. It's a must and a place I would like to visit again for sure.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eric T. 1 year ago on Google
    My favourite temple in Chiang Mai. Very beautiful and serene and made in the Burmese style with peacocks and the different style of Buddha. Can spend an entire day here. The setting in the forest is also very peaceful. Definitely a must see when you are in Chiang Mai.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 William T. 1 year ago on Google
    Always a pleasure to visit. 3rd time was this am. Very peaceful except for engine noise of leaf blower as Monks did the morning cleaning. A must visit, amazing waterfall, views and photo opportunities. Can hike from below or drive and arrive from above. Home is much more fun! Fun really high up rooster on powerpole! 🤣🙈🧡
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sha T. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice hidden hike. Did not take a long time. Kid and pet friendly. Waterfalls and silences. It's hard to get lost on this trail. I have seen the locals doing it barefoot.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul H. 1 year ago on Google
    In my opinion, one of the most beautiful temples I saw in Thailand. The location alone is just breathtaking! Don’t forgot to dress properly before taking the hike from the road up. Or at least bring a sarong to cover any knees or shoulders.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dimitris Travel And T. 1 year ago on Google
    A retreat for meditation and a historical and serene buddhist temple area. You can also hike to it and some others on whats called “the monks trail” or you can just drive up the hill. The hike was nice but don’t attempt in rainy season. The temple made me feel at peace and there are several photo and video opportunities here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laia 7 months ago on Google
    The most beautiful temple I've seen in Thailand so far, it feels like nature is taking over it, amazing. If you are in the area don't hesitate to go, and I recommend you to take the Monk's trail, it takes 30-45min. I also recommend to take your time to visit the temple, it's a really good place to relax or even meditate.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Supida K. 7 months ago on Google
    Beautiful and well kept temple with Lanna style buildings, Chedis, Buddha images and nice sculptures. The temple ground is spacious and situated amidst lush nature with shady trees and bamboo groves. The temple also features small natural waterfall as well as nice city view.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shane M. 5 months ago on Google
    This has to be one of the most beautiful temples I have seen in Chiang Mai, and the best thing is that there are almost no crowds. I did the walk up Monks trail to the temple (well worth the walk if you like hiking, but you can get a taxi/grab to the front door) and ended up at a picturesque view that set the scene for an amazing day. From the waterfall that runs through the temple, to the buildings surrounded by the jungle this place is just beautiful. I ended up just sitting for an hour listening to nature and taking in the beautiful view. A must see temple.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tom G. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful little temple in the jungle. It is a popular destination by hiking on Monk's Trail or by car. Definitely worth a visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 L N. 2 years ago on Google
    You should definitely take some time to walk around the monk’s beautiful temple. It’s a peaceful place to rest with an amazing view. If you want to continue the hike to doi suthep from here, you have to go on the main road. See image below.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 gift k. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing Amazing Amazing! Simply amazing place to visit. The arts and architecture are just exquisite, historic and traditional in a balanced combination with nature.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yvonne W. 2 months ago on Google • 43 reviews New
    This Temple is a favorite of mine! It's not over run by tourists and the setting is serene to the max. If we'd had time I would have stayed for much, much longer. It has nooks and crannies to explore, views galore, and a waterfall to lull you into a meditative state. The woodsy setting can't be beat.

  • 5/5 Marek C. 1 month ago on Google • 42 reviews New
    This place should be a "must-see" for every visitor to Chiang Mai. The temple and its surroundings have a calming effect, the waterfall and the working monks give this place a dose of romance and fairy tales. If you have time and don't rush, don't forget to bring a book. You can get to the temple by walk or by car. If you decide to go on foot, and your knees are fine, I recommend the pathway descending from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. It takes approximately 25-35 minutes.

  • 5/5 Daniel K. 8 months ago on Google
    👍 Nestled in the lush forests of Chiang Mai, Thailand, Wat Pha Lat, also known as "วัดผาลาด" or "Siket Kamai," is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the bustling city. This tranquil temple is a harmonious blend of nature and spirituality, creating a unique and captivating experience for visitors. The temple's name translates to "Monastery at the Sloping Rock," aptly describing its location on the slopes of Doi Suthep mountain. Surrounded by vibrant greenery and shaded by towering trees, Wat Pha Lat exudes an air of tranquility that instantly soothes the soul. The journey to the temple involves a scenic nature trail that winds through the forest, providing a peaceful and meditative walk for pilgrims and tourists alike. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by intricate stone carvings, ancient shrines, and a cascading waterfall that adds to the ethereal atmosphere. The architecture of Wat Pha Lat reflects traditional Lanna design, with ornate details and exquisite craftsmanship. Beyond its aesthetic beauty, Wat Pha Lat holds spiritual significance for those seeking a meaningful connection. The temple provides a serene space for meditation, reflection, and a chance to disconnect from the modern world. As you explore the temple grounds, you'll discover hidden corners and picturesque viewpoints that allow you to appreciate the natural beauty of the region. Wat Pha Lat stands as a testament to the harmonious relationship between human creativity and the surrounding environment. It beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its tranquil ambiance, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and natural wonders of Chiang Mai.

  • 5/5 Anushika S. 2 years ago on Google
    Very peaceful temple with beautiful carvings. Saw a peacock there once. Very cute dogs too. Best place to relax before you hike up to Doi Suthep.

  • 5/5 mark r. 1 month ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    Through a Friend I got the recommendation to take the Monk trail to the temple... This was sometimes a challenge, but more than worth it... The reward is a magnificent view over Chiang Mai. Do not skip this trip... it also brings you more good luck after a visit, even only if you visit once in your lifetime... 😉✅️💪

  • 5/5 Starr R. 2 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous temple complex and flowing creek. So serene. We hiked down toward CMU from there. Very nice trail.

  • 5/5 Richard S. 2 years ago on Google
    Have been here several times always a pleasure. Serene with all elements

  • 5/5 Desmond O. 4 months ago on Google
    It a must to visit where you will find this temple is totally different from all other tenple in Thailand. Build in the jungle with waterfall, nice architecture design and layout. When you walk into this temple compound, you will feel so peace

  • 5/5 Tereza K. 4 months ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful temple I've ever seen. It's calm and in the forest. Great place to meditate. Walk from the city there by the Old monk trail, it's nice trail.

  • 4/5 Lucho T. 5 months ago on Google
    Beautiful place to reach after a short but not easy trekking, is in the middle of the mountain and the vegetation is incredible. Also is packed with life, lizards, butterflys, etc. It seems really old but is really nice. You can reach this place also by car or tuk tuk, in here you can decide to take the next path to the next temple. The views are amazing....you can see the cityscape quite well.

  • 5/5 Adam 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing place , this place is one of the most beautiful temple in Chiang Mai for me. Its quiet unique architecture wise and we'll blend with surrounding nature. Not to mention it's so peaceful up here . If you are on the way to doi suthep ,I suggest stop by for a moment, or if you have a half free day , trekking is a great option.

  • 5/5 Alvaro C. 4 months ago on Google
    Impressive temple and surroundings on the way to Wat Phra That in Doi Suthep. It is much less crowded and much more rewarding than the more famous temple. I strongly recommend stopping here and spending some time walking around the different buildings.

  • 5/5 Huru H. 3 years ago on Google
    A great place to visit if u want to do a short hike in the Chiang Mai.

  • 5/5 Benjamin Delamou D. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a lovely place for a little Sunday walk, you can either access by the road and park next to the entrance or take the « Monk Trail » through the forest which is nice, a bit steep sometimes but still very enjoyable and quite easy

  • 5/5 Shaye-Louise J. 1 year ago on Google
    This is easily by far my favourite temple I've visited. The sights of Chiang Mai from over the waterfall are next to none. We visited just before sunset and saw the city lit up with sunlight. It was free to enter and it was possible to walk all the way down to the city from here. There is a lovely pagoda with a bell that can be rung and instructions for those who are not sure what to do. Cannot recommend visiting this hidden gem on your way to or from Doi Sethup!

  • 5/5 Radwa Abdl A. 9 months ago on Google
    Fascinating temple, my favorite so far in Chiang Mai. The energy is very strong and so many hidden caves & places to explore and meditate. Must visit to enjoy this beautiful mystical temple.

  • 5/5 Luis D. 8 months ago on Google
    This place is amazing. The location, the architecture, and the ancient temples make you feel like you are in an Indiana Jones movie. The view of the city from this place is amazing, and because the place is surrounded by big trees, you don't feel the heat.

  • 5/5 Scott F. 7 months ago on Google
    Peaceful and quiet temple with a lovely waterway running through it. The jungle is all around and the sound of the cicadas was deafening! Well worth a stop on your way up the mountain

  • 5/5 Harry J. 11 months ago on Google
    My favourite temple visit so far in Thailand. A very rustic, traditional feeling temple with real historic feel. Excellent place for photographs and enjoying the serene quiet whilst exploring. Interesting temple history as well for the region and it's links with Chiang Mai, The Buddha and the other neighbouring temple.

  • 5/5 Mads S. 2 years ago on Google
    Wat Pha Lat is one of the more special temples in Chiang Mai - with its location in the middle of nature and a different architecture than most other temples, it is worth a visit. I am tempted to say if you are in Chiang Mai and can only visit one temple then let it be Wat Pha Lat.

  • 5/5 Knud H. 2 years ago on Google
    This was the most beautiful wat we've seen so far. It looks exactly like the place where you would picture if someone said "mountain monastery retreat". The stream, waterfall and architecture are all amazing. While Wat Phra That Doi Suthrep is the bigger name the serenity and beauty of this one makes it just as good in my opinion. About a 30 minute hike from the lower trailhead

  • 5/5 Phunipa B. 2 years ago on Google
    Good weather and peaceful temple at the Doi Suthep. The temple was built for 500 years in the Lanna Historical. Wat Pha Lat, typically translated as ‘monastery at the sloping rock’, was built during the reign of King Kuena (1355-1385). As the story goes, the royal entourage journeyed to the top of Doi Suthep, the king riding on his white elephant. When they reached the top, his exhausted elephant lay down and died. The king commanded that Wat Phra That Doi Suthep be built on the spot, and later ordered the construction of three more temples on the mountain – all places his elephant had stopped and rested. Wat Pha Lat was one of those.

  • 5/5 Matt T. 1 year ago on Google
    If you're looking for a hidden gem in Chiang Mai, look no further than this ancient temple nestled in the hills. Despite its breathtaking beauty and historic significance, it remains largely undiscovered by tourist mobs making it a tranquil and peaceful spot to visit. As you wander the lush and verdant grounds, you'll marvel at the intricate carvings and stunning ancient architecture. The temple exudes a charm and tranquility that is unmatched by the more popular tourist attractions in the area (in my opinion). The picturesque mountain setting adds to the enchantment, making this a truly magical and unforgettable experience. Don't miss the chance to explore this hidden treasure and discover the true beauty of Chiang Mai. When you arrive you will see a beautiful old temple at the top...that's just the beginning, so make sure you venture down to the bottom. Enjoy!

  • 5/5 Bryan 1 year ago on Google
    Cute and serene temple. I liked it a lot more than the touristy one up the hill. To access the Monks Trail back down to near the Chiang Mai Zoo, cross over the stream within the temple, turn left and keep going.

  • 5/5 Matt Henry T. 2 years ago on Google
    What a beautiful experience, the temples inside were absolutely peaceful, the waterfall and flowing water. Just lovely, Ill be back. :)

  • 5/5 Beyond R. 2 years ago on Google
    Don't miss the place before going up to Doi Suthep. Great view and peaceful place. Parking is one problem you should park anywhere is free and avoid to find the closest one. Spending an hour to explore all this place that's enough.

  • 5/5 Alexander F. 2 years ago on Google
    This old temple is a hidden jem! Most of people just skip it on the way to Wat Doi Suthep, but Wat Pha Lat also worths visiting. If you go there, go left and a down, the temple, the waterfall and the viewpoint are hidden behind the building you can see from the road. This place is really very beautiful!

  • 5/5 Juan Ignacio M. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing place!! Do the trekking trail that starts down below the mountain. It’s not hard, but has some challenging parts. Up above in the temple, the water sound and the birds makes you feel in peace.


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