Wat Phra Singh Chiang Rai

Wat Phra Singh Chiang Rai is a historic Buddhist temple located on Singhakai Road in Wiang Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai city. Built in the 14th century during the Lanna period, it is one of the city's oldest and most revered temples. Notable for its classic Lanna architecture, ornate wooden ubosot, replica of the Phra Singh Buddha image, and intricate wood carvings, it serves as an important religious and cultural landmark in central Chiang Rai.

Visitors can expect a compact, active temple compound in central Chiang Rai with a Lanna-style ubosot (ordination hall) and viharn, ornate wood-carved doors and gables, gilded Buddha images including a replica Phra Singh Buddha, and a peaceful courtyard with mature trees. The grounds are walkable and allow close viewing of traditional architecture, murals and religious art. It is a functioning place of worship where visitors can observe merit-making and local religious practices.

Originally called Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, the temple was founded in the 14th century during the reign of King Mahaphrom of the Chiang Rai Lanna kingdom. It was built to enshrine a replica of the Phra Singh Buddha image and has undergone several restorations. It represents classic Lanna architecture and is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Rai city.

An important Theravada Buddhist temple for the local community, Wat Phra Singh serves as a center for religious ceremonies, merit-making and annual festivals such as Songkran. It houses a highly revered Phra Singh Buddha image replica and exemplifies Lanna religious art and craftsmanship.