Overview
Founded in 1345, Wat Phra Singh is regarded as Chiang Mai's most sacred temple and houses the Lion Buddha image ('Phra Singh') that serves as the city's protector. The exquisite Lanna-style murals inside Wihan Lai Kham — painted in the mid-19th century and depicting everyday northern Thai life — are a true art-history treasure. During Songkran (Thai New Year, April), the city's central procession starts here, making it the festival's liveliest stage. Admission THB 40. In the western Old City, about a 10-minute walk from Wat Chedi Luang.
Opening Hours
Daily 06:00-20:00 (viharn 09:00-17:00)
Travel Tips
The Wihan Lai Kham murals are dim — use a phone flashlight to appreciate the details. Visiting during Songkran (April 13-15) coincides with the city at its most festive.
Hotels near Wat Phra Singh
Hotels and guesthouses in Chiang Mai, Old City, Chiang Mai
Other attractions in Chiang Mai
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Chiang Mai's mountain-top guardian temple, famed for its golden chedi and sweeping city views.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Chiang Mai's beloved nightly scene of handicrafts, street food, and performances.
Elephant Nature Park
An ethical elephant sanctuary where rescued elephants roam freely — Chiang Mai's top experience.
Wat Chedi Luang
Symbol of Chiang Mai's Old City — a massive 15th-century chedi partially collapsed by an earthquake.
Sunday Walking Street
Every Sunday evening, the Old City's main street becomes a 1km pedestrian wonderland — Chiang Mai's best night market.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Home to Thailand's highest peak (2,565 m), with waterfalls, twin royal chedis, and hill-tribe villages.
Nimmanhaemin Road
Chiang Mai's 'Gangnam' — the trendy uptown filled with hip cafes, boutiques, and digital-nomad hotspots.