Pa Lad Temple: ‘A beautiful forest monastery in Chiang Mai’

Visiting a monastery is great, but visiting a forest monastery may sounds more interesting to you, as you may have never been to it before. 

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Wat Pha Lad is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This ancient temple offers a unique blend of natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and intricate art. As you journey through a Chiang Mai Day Tour, you’ll find this peaceful haven just 5 kilometers from the famous Kruba Srivichai Monument.

Visiting a Forest Monastery

Visiting a monastery is great, but visiting a forest monastery may sound more interesting to you, especially if you have never been to one before. Unlike a typical monastery built with cement, glass, and iron, a forest monastery like Wat Pha Lad is surrounded by trees, grass, mountains, and water sources. This natural setting makes it a perfect place for practicing Dhamma, as it is non-polluted, natural, and peaceful. The serene environment helps make the mind comfortable for prayer, meditation, or reflection.

The Serene Atmosphere

Wat Pha Lad is renowned for its tranquil environment. The temple is surrounded by dense forests, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. Visitors often find solace here, accompanied by the soothing sounds of nature and the gentle flow of a nearby waterfall. This serene setting makes it a perfect spot for meditation and reflection, offering a stark contrast to the more crowded Chiang Mai attractions.

Architectural Marvels

The structures at Wat Pha Lad are a testament to its rich history and artistic heritage. Key buildings include:

1. The Majestic Chedi: Wat Pha Lad’s ancient chedi stands as a testament to the temple’s rich history. Covered in vibrant moss and ferns, this structure reflects the blend of Burmese and Lanna architectural styles. The chedi, believed to be over 600 years old, showcases the intricate craftsmanship of the past and offers a serene spot for contemplation.

2. The Enchanting Viharn: The viharn at Wat Pha Lad is adorned with detailed carvings and murals that reflect the rich artistic heritage of the Lanna kingdom. The front gable, depicting peacocks and rabbits, is a standout feature, symbolizing prosperity and fertility. Inside, serene Buddha statues add to the spiritual ambiance of the temple.
3. Sacred Buddha Statues: The serene Buddha statues inside the viharn are focal points of Wat Pha Lad. These statues, with their peaceful expressions and intricate details, are not only objects of worship but also works of art. They reflect the spiritual essence of the temple and provide a serene environment for meditation and prayer.
4. The Well (Bo Namthip): Often referred to as the “sacred well,” it is believed to have been constructed during the Sukhothai period. The well adds a mystical element to the temple grounds.
5. The Lord Buddha Statue House: This house contains old but valuable Buddha statues, each with a rich history and spiritual significance. The serene expressions of the statues enhance the peaceful ambiance of the temple.

6. The Vihara of Phaya Kue Na: Located near a stream, this small vihara is decorated in traditional style with dark red colors. The structure holds historical significance and provides a serene spot for visitors. An interesting feature is the mark of a pond in front of the vihara, indicating that water once flowed through this area.

The Serene Waterfall

A highlight Wat Pha temple is its picturesque waterfall, which adds to the temple’s tranquil charm. The waterfall cascades down the rocks, creating a soothing sound that enhances the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can sit by the waterfall, meditate, or simply enjoy the refreshing ambiance. It’s one of the must-see spots in Chiang Mai for nature lovers.

Wat Pha Lad offers a unique blend of natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and rich history, making it a perfect addition to any Chiang Mai itinerary. Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this hidden gem promises a memorable experience. Don’t miss out on this tranquil haven on your next Chiang Mai Day Tour; see you at our “Chiang Mai Almsgiving & Sunrise Tour” program.

Credit pics : https://www.facebook.com/watpalad/

How to get there

The address of Pa Lad Temple is 101, Area 1, Sri Wichai Road, Suthep District, Muang County, Chiang Mai province.

Reaching Wat Pha Lad is straightforward. From Chiang Mai city center, take a short drive towards Doi Suthep Temple. About 5 kilometers past the Kruba Srivichai Monument, you’ll find the entrance to the temple on the left side. Alternatively, for the more adventurous, you can trek from the Chiang Mai University area via the Monk’s Trail, enjoying the scenic route through the forest, we recommend you to book the private tour for your trip.

Entrance fee & opening hours : Open from 6.00am to 7.00pm. The admission is free. 

Dress Code: Conservative with long pants and covered shoulders.

Note : Not accessible for wheelchair user.