Wat Phra Non

Wat Phra Non is a small temple complex located at the base of Doi Kong Mu, the hill where the Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu lies, just in the heart of Mae Hong Son. Built in 1875, the temple was originally a resting place for the governor of Mae Hong Son. The complex's main structure is an open-front viharn, a large sermon hall which is a classic example of wooden architecture in Shan style. Like other Mae Hong Son's temples, the edifice boasts a beautiful Pyatthat, a multi tiered roof receding in size towards the top, with the edges adorned with silver metal fretworks, and topped with a golden HTI, which is an umbrella-shaped ornament. The viharn houses a colourful Buddha image in reclined position long 12 metres and built in bricks and concrete, from it derives the name of Wat Phra Non, which literally means the "Monastery of the Reclining Buddha". Alongside the viharn is located a small cemetery with four cenotaphs, which houses the ashes of three of the first four Shan ruler of Mae Hong Son, those of Phaya Singhanataraj, the first ruler, have been moved into a chedi of Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, the temple on the summit of adjacent hill. Behind the main edifice, you will find the long steep staircase that leads to the summit of the Doi Kong Mu hill, guarded by two massive Singha, lion statues in Shan style. At its left, there is a lovely sitting Buddha, other buildings with multi levels roof and Buddha images. Inside the complex there is also a small museum that houses religious books, statues, antique porcelain and, strangely, objects from the Japanese occupation during the Second World War.
Admission fee & Opening hours: The temples are open daily from 08:00 until 18:00. Admission is free, although donations are suggested.
Getting there: Located at the base of Doi Kong Mu, the temple is within walking distance for those who are already in the city center, just a couple of hundred meters west of Nong Kham Lake. Alternatively, you can use a tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi for between 20 and 40 baht.Read More