Wat Phrathat Doi Tung

Wat Phra Maha Chinathat Chao, better known as Wat Phra That Doi Tung, is a temple that sits atop of Doi Tung mountain, about 62 Km north of Chiang Rai's Mae Sai district, which is the most northern district of the province, few kilometres from the border with Myanmar. While not the highest elevation of the province, 1,389 above the sea level, from this temple you will enjoy probably the most fantastic view of all the temples of Thailand. Wat Phra That Doi Tung is one of the Chiang Rai's oldest temples, its construction dating back to many centuries before the city was founded by King Mengrai in 1262. According to some historians, its twin chedis date back to the year 911 during the reign of Phrachao Uchutarat, third ruler of the royal dynasty Singhanawat, other historians claim that the chedis were built in 940 during the reign of Phraya Ruen Kaew, Prince of Chiang Rai, to preserve a sacred relic of the Buddha, precisely his left collarbone, which was precedent housed in Wat Phra Maha Kassapa. The twin chedis were constructed with a mixture of Lanna and Bhu-kam, ancient Burma, style. The twin chedis were constructed with a mixture of Lanna and Bhu-kam, ancient Burma, style. Both are about 14 meters in height, with the the lotus-petal base, the body, the bell and the upper part decorated with a gold foil. Wat Phra That Doi Tung is the destination of pilgrimages by devout Buddhists from all over Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar, who come here to give tribute to the sacred relic, and even because the temple, according to Lanna tradition, is the first sign of the advent of the Buddhist religion in the Kingdom. The journey to Wat Phra That Doi Tung from Chiang Rai is actually a plus benefit as you will be passing through breathtaking sceneries and spectacular panoramic views overlooking Laos and Myanmar.
Admission fee & Opening hours: The temple is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00. Admission is free.
Getting there: The temple is located atop of Doi Tung mountain in Tambon Huai Khrai, Mae Sai District, about 62 km north of Chiang Rai. To reach the temple, follow the Highway 1 for about 50 Km, then at Huai Khrai turn left on Rural road N° 1149 and continue for 14 km before reaching the destination.Read More