Wat Pha Lat, Chiang Mai
Wat Doi Suthep is a must-visit temple recommended to all those visiting Chiang Mai for the first time. However, as you journey to this iconic temple, you might not be aware of the small hidden gem perched on the mountainside, waiting for you to explore.
If you’re in the mood for something truly unique and mystical, we’d love to introduce you to Wat Pha Lat. This hidden gem, often referred to as a “forgotten temple”, is a small, old sanctuary tucked away in the lush jungles of Chiang Mai.
Explore a quaint age-old temple hidden in a lush jungle
Image credit: @axethai_1559 via Instagram
As an overlooked temple to many, Wat Pha Lat was built over 600 years ago. It served as a resting place for monks travelling to and from a larger temple atop the mountain. It had fallen into disrepair and was forgotten for many years before being restored. Nowadays, Wat Pha Lat has gained recognition among both Thais and foreigners who love to visit temples due to its green and tranquil environment.
If you visit the temple during the wintertime, you’ll often find it shrouded in mist, adding to its charm and mystique. Amid the fog, you’ll come across several small chapels adorned with Buddha images, enhancing the temple’s captivating aura.
Image credit: @sebasty via Instagram
One of the most picturesque spots for photography is a deteriorated building with a striking facade. It features five elegant arches. As you look inside, you’ll find seated and reclining white Buddha sculptures. The building looks quite enigmatic with its old architecture surrounded by lush plantations, persuading you to explore.
Image credit: @tong_riders via Instagram
Another thing that’ll grab your attention is a dated brown brick stupa. The old stupa is embraced by a lush coat of moss that wraps it from the base up to its midpoint. Since the temple it was constructed by Burmese workers, the stupa features a Burmese architectural style.
Image credit: @kxmonrat via Instagram
As you’re walking along, you’ll find a small stream and a mini waterfall with a large rock where you can take a break and listen to the soothing sounds of the flowing water.
Image credit: @puengnoy via Instagram
From the temple, there’s a vantage point where you can gaze down and behold the city of Chiang Mai against the backdrop of distant mountain ranges. The view is too captivating not to capture.
Pay a visit to Wat Pha Lat in Chiang Mai
So, if you plan to take a trip to Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, don’t forget to check out this quaint temple on the mountain. The drive from downtown will only take you around 15 minutes, and the temple will give you a distinct experience that sets it apart from other local temples.
After the trip, you can come back and you can tell us how you enjoyed exploring the temple in the comment.
Chiang Mai has a lot of places and things to enjoy, just make sure you check out Pa-Son Watchan — log huts in a pine forest, 10 things to do while in Chiang Mai, and 7 best rooftop bars to hang out in Chiang Mai.
Address: Baan Huay Pha Lat 101, Sriwichai Alley, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Opening hours: 6am-6pm, Daily
Contact: Wat Pha Lat’s Facebook | Google Maps
Cover image adapted from: @sebasty via Instagram, @axethai_1559 via Instagram, and @puengnoy via Instagram