Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai Overview

Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan is a Buddhist temple from the 14th century, often considered the most beautiful Chiang Mai temple. Part of the old city, it is also known as the Temple of the Lion Buddha, as it houses two Buddha statues. The temple is beautifully illuminated after dark.

Established in 1345, the Lai Kam assembly hall at Wat Phra Singh is an exquisite example of Lanna architecture. The hallmarks of the Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan are its Lanna-style roofs and a glittering Viharn. With intricate wood carvings, gilded round columns, and soaring wing-shaped ceilings, this assembly hall also houses the famous Phra Buddha Sihing Buddha statue. It is perhaps the second most important Chiang Mai temple after Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

Although the origins of this statue are unclear, it is believed to have been brought via Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka) to Ligor (present-day Nakhon Si Thammarat). The statue is said to have been transported to Ayutthaya and finally to Chiang Mai, where it currently rests. Legend has it that this statue is based on the lion of Shakya, a prominent icon in the Mahabodhi Temple of Bodh Gaya (India), which has been missing ever since. During each Songkran, the Thai New Year, the figure is taken out and paraded through the Chiang Mai streets. This religious procession witnesses spectators sprinkling water in honor of the statue.

How to Reach Wat Phra Singh

By Songthaew
These converted red trucks that ply as shared taxis are the most popular mode of transport in Chiang Mai. They are also the most economical mode at around THB 30 per person. Some Songthaews can be rented as private taxis at an added cost.

By Tuk-Tuk
Tuk-Tuks are the most traditional way of travelling around Chiang Mai, and you can take one to reach this temple as well. They are more expensive than Songthaews and charge THB 60 for short trips and THB 150 to THB 250 for long ones.

By Samlor
These three-wheeled rickshaws are suitable for short distances and are readily available around the old-city. You can take such a rickshaw to get to Wat Phra Singh.

By Taxi
You can also take a private Taxi to the temple. But these are very expensive at THB 100 to THB 200 per ride and aren’t readily available.

By UBER & GRAB
UBER’s other popular ride-sharing mobile app very similar to UBER called GRAB are also available in Chiang Mai. You can even book a private Songthaew on GRAB.
Tip: You can use Coupon Codes to get a good deal and ride to the temple in a comfortable AC car for much cheaper than a regular Taxi.

By Motorbike Taxi
Motorbike taxis are a unique mode of transport that is available at Chang Phueak Bus Station and Arcade Bus Station in Chiang Mai. The Motorbike taxi drivers can be spotted in pink vests. The fares are negotiable, but usually, are a minimum of THB 50. If you are alone and near the bus stops, this can be an excellent way to reach the temple.

By Bike
Renting a bike is perhaps the best way to travel around Chiang Mai. A 100cc motorbike with two helmets is available for THB 99 per day. Slightly better bikes ranging between 110cc – 125cc can be rented for THB 150 to THB 200 per day.

By Bicycle
If you don’t mind the exercise, you can rent a bicycle at THB 50 for the day and cycle to this temple and many other attractions in the old city.

By Foot
Finally, you can always walk to Wat Chedi Luang and the old city if you are close by.