Wat Phra That Chom Kitti

Wat Phra That Chom Kitti is a historic Buddhist temple atop Doi Chom Kitti hill in Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai Province, northern Thailand. Overlooking the town and Mekong River valley, it is one of Chiang Saen's oldest temples, traditionally dated to the 10th century and believed to enshrine Buddha relics. The temple is noted for its Lanna-style bell-shaped chedi, serene hilltop setting, and panoramic views, serving as an important pilgrimage site.

Visitors can expect a hilltop temple complex reached by a long staircase or steep paved road, centered on a gilded Lanna-style bell-shaped chedi enshrining relics, with a small viharn and Buddha images. The compound is quiet and forested, offering panoramic views over Chiang Saen town, surrounding plains and the Mekong River valley. The site is compact and can be explored on foot around the terrace and viewpoint areas.

Traditionally believed to have been founded in the 10th century, around 945 CE, by Phraya Ruen Kaew, Wat Phra That Chom Kitti is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Saen. It was built to enshrine Buddha relics and is regarded as the first of the four Chom chedis of Chiang Saen. The bell-shaped chedi shows classic Lanna style and has been restored over centuries, reflecting the long history of the Chiang Saen ancient city.

An important Theravada Buddhist pilgrimage site, the temple is revered for enshrining Buddha relics and is part of the sacred group of Phra That Chom temples (Chom Kitti, Chom Chaeng, Chom Thong, Chom Sak) that pilgrims visit for merit-making. It remains an active place of worship and cultural landmark for the local community.