Wat Phra Singh Worawihan: A Guide to One of Chiang Mai’s Most Revered Temples

The Revered Phra Singh: A Journey to Wat Phra Singh Worawihan

Wat Phra Singh Worawihan, also known simply as Wat Phra Singh, is a revered temple located in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is considered the second most important temple in the city after Wat Phra That Doi SuthepDoi Suthep Temple and is renowned for its supreme examples of Lanna art and architecture.

The temple was originally built in the 14th century and was named Wat Li Chiang Phra. It was later renamed Wat Phra Singh when the Phra Sihing Buddha image was first housed there in 1367. Over the centuries, the temple was expanded and renovated by various rulers, including King Kawila, Chao Thammalangka, Chao Kham Fan, and Khru Ba Srivichai.

Today, Wat Phra Singh serves as both a place of worship and a cultural center where visitors can learn about Thai Buddhism and the rich history and traditions of Chiang Mai. It is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from around the world who come to admire its beauty, learn about its history, and pay their respects to the revered Buddha image housed within.

Visitors to Wat Phra Singh can explore the temple grounds, which include several beautifully decorated buildings such as the Viharn Luang, Main Chedi, Viharn Lai Kham, and Ubosot. The Phra Singh Buddha is a highly revered artifact that depicts the Buddha in the attitude of peace and is made of gold, silver, and precious stones.

The Viharn Luang is the largest building in the temple complex and serves as a gathering place for Buddhists to pray and meditate. The Main Chedi is the oldest structure in the temple and was built in 1345 to enshrine the ashes of King Pha Yu’s father. The Viharn Lai Kham serves as a secondary hall for prayer and meditation, while the Ubosot is considered a sacred space within the temple complex.

The Ho Trai, a scripture library, is also located within the temple grounds and is considered one of the finest examples of its type in northern Thailand. The library is decorated with carvings and stucco and is covered in glass mosaic and gilded lacquer.

Wat Phra Singh Worawihan is located inside the old city wall at the western end of Ratchadamnoen Road. It is open daily from 6 am until 5 pm, with free admission for Thai people and a 20 THB fee for foreigners. The temple is usually busiest during the Thai New Year festival (Songkran) in mid-April. Visitors can easily visit other important temples in Chiang Mai, such as Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Chiang Man, which are just a short walk away.

Wat Phra Singh Worawihan temple is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Chiang Mai. This revered temple is a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the past and the fascinating history of Thai Buddhism. With its intricate carvings, gold-plated accents, and colorful murals, the temple is a feast for the eyes. Our private tour to Wat Phra Singh Worawihan, led by knowledgeable guides, will provide you with a deep understanding of its history and significance, as well as an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and grandeur of traditional Thai temple architecture. Don’t miss the chance to experience Wat Phra Singh for yourself!