Wat Phra Singh

Wat Phra Singh is a major Buddhist temple located inside the old walled city of Chiang Mai on Sam Lan Road. Founded in 1345 by King Phayu for the ashes of his father King Kham Fu, it is one of Chiang Mai's most revered temples. It is known for its classic Lanna architecture, the revered Phra Buddha Sihing image, and the ornate Wihan Lai Kham with historic murals.

Visitors can expect a large active temple compound with multiple viharns, chedis, and courtyards within Chiang Mai's old city. The main attractions are the Wihan Luang, the highly decorated Wihan Lai Kham housing the Phra Buddha Sihing image, and the large chedi behind it. The grounds include Lanna-style wood and gold decoration, mural paintings, monk quarters, and open areas for walking, photography and observing worshippers.

Founded in 1345 by King Phayu of the Mangrai dynasty to enshrine the ashes of his father King Kham Fu, originally called Wat Lichiang. It later received the Phra Buddha Sihing image in 1367 and became known as Wat Phra Singh. The temple exemplifies Lanna architecture and was restored and expanded during subsequent Lanna and later periods, with Wihan Lai Kham built in 1345-1367 and restored in the 1920s.

Wat Phra Singh is one of Chiang Mai's most highly revered Buddhist temples and a first-class royal temple (Woramahawihan). It houses the Phra Buddha Sihing, a highly venerated Buddha image for northern Thailand. The temple is a central focus of the annual Songkran (Thai New Year) celebrations when the image is carried in procession for bathing and blessing, and remains an active center for religious practice and Lanna cultural heritage.