Wat Phrathat Doi Tung : ‘Pay respect to the most famous Buddha’s relics of Chiang Rai.’

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Chiang Rai consists of many interesting tourist attractions, which are mostly historic. Well, in case you’re interested in ancient things and wish to learn more about Chiang Rai in the past, then here is another suggested spot for you to visit. 

Let’s travel to Wat Phrathat Doi Tung.

Wat Phra That Doi Tung, or Wat Phra Maha Chin That Chao, is a temple located in Mae Sai County, Chiang Rai. It was probably built in the period of King Achutharat of Yonoknakphan. It is famous for having Lord Buddha’s collarbone relics, which was transported directly from India. The legend says, about 1,000 years ago, Mahākāśyapa and King Achutharat of Yonoknakphan, along with his servants, were the people who brough the relics to the place.

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wat phrathat doi tung, wat phra that doi tung, phrathat doi tung temple, phra that doi tung temple

If you were born in year of the pig, you should visit the temple for at least once in lifetime, as the Lord Buddha’s relics there is specially fortunate for whoever born in that period. Therefore is you pay your respect to the relics, you will feel happy and your life can be more peaceful and successful.

The most outstanding appearance of the temple is, there are two chedis located near each other. They both are in a woodland called Debharak Garden, which is believed to be a holy place hosted by divines. You can see these chedis from a great distance, as the temple is about 2,000 metres higher than the sea level.

However, long time ago, there were only one chedi at Wat Phrathat Doi Tung and it was decorated in Chiang San traditional style, similar to Phra That Doi Suthep. But, later, King Mangrai established another chedi next to the original one. That is why you see two chedis at the temple nowadays.

In the year 1927, the temple was totally ruined. Therefore Kruba Sri Wichai and some Chiang Rai villagers helped each other, in order to renovate the temple. Two new bell-shaped chedis was established in Lanna style. But that wasn’t the lastest renovation. The latest renovation was done in the year 1973  by Ministry of Interior. The workers covered the two old chedis by building other two new chedis instead.

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wat phrathat doi tung, wat phra that doi tung, phrathat doi tung temple, phra that doi tung temple
wat phrathat doi tung, wat phra that doi tung, phrathat doi tung temple, phra that doi tung temple

The two new chedis built by Ministry of Interior were undone by Fine Arts Department in the year 2006, due to claims of some villagers. With that, the two old chedis from the renovation of Kruba Sri Wichai were brought out and sent to Chiang Mai Office of Archaeology, in order to be fixed and maintained.

However, after many times of maintenances, the two chedis now appear in sparkling golden color. You can go and see them for yourself. And don’t forget to bring a camera with you too.

Beside of the two chedis, there are other interesting things around the temple too. Starting from the entrance, you will see a white statue of Kruba Sri Wichai. If you are about to walk up to the temple, you should see two Naga statues along the stairway. Or, you can also get into the glorious ubosot to pay respect to the principle Lord Buddha statue.

On top of that, there is a walking way surrounded with high green trees. If you walk along the walking way for about 200 metres, you should find a pavillion. And, if you continue further, you will find a sightseeing spot, which you can look around and see all stunning natural scenery.

The temple area is quiet and peaceful. It is a good place to go when you feel sad or nervous. By wandering around Wat Phrathat Doi Tung and pay respect to holy things, you should feel better.

Or, if it is your birthday, don’t forget to go there and make merit, in order to lead good things into your life and wash all bad things away.

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wat phrathat doi tung, wat phra that doi tung, phrathat doi tung temple, phra that doi tung temple

How to get there 

Wat Phrathat Doi Tung is located in Huai Krai District, Mae Sai County, Chiang Rai Province. 

To go there, you may follow the route Chiang Rai – Mae Sai – Doi Tung Palace. Then, just before you reach the palace entrance, you should head for Doi Chang Mub Mae Fa Luang Arboretum. At the same time, you will see a sign written the direction to Wat Phrathat Doi Tung or please contact us to provide the private tour for more comfortable.

Opening hours and Entrance fee : Opens daily from 7.30 am until 5.30 pm. Admission is free

Note : Wheelchair users is accessible

Our services :

Wat Phra That Doi Tung Map