Wat Pha LatAlso known as Wat Sakadagami, Wat Pha Lat dates back to the 14th century and is associated with King Kuena of the Lanna kingdom; it began as a stopping point for pilgrims making the ascent to Doi Suthep.
The site is small and atmospheric, set among trees and built into the hillside rather than on a single grand terrace, with a mix of modest chedis, Buddha images and shrines that have a partly reclaimed-by-nature look.
Today it is popular with walkers, meditation visitors and those seeking a quieter spiritual experience than the busy mountaintop temple, and it retains an uncommercial, contemplative character.
What to See at Wat Pha Lat#
- Moss-lined stairways and forest paths that lead through the temple complex and give it a secluded feel
- Small chedis and stupas scattered among the trees, many with weathered brick and stone
- Various Buddha statues in differing poses, some sheltered in small open pavilions
- Ornate small shrines and spirit houses decorated with flowers and offerings
- Views over Chiang Mai from openings in the hillside, especially when the air is clear
Nearby Attractions to Wat Pha Lat#
Best Time to Visit Wat Pha Lat#
Early morning is best for cool air, clearer views and a quieter atmosphere; the dry season offers easier walking conditions while the rainy season makes paths slipperier and more overgrown.
Weather & Climate near Wat Pha Lat#
Wat Pha Lat's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with hot summers (peaking in April) and warm winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 13°C to 34°C. Abundant rainfall (1065 mm/year), wettest in August with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Ideal | 13° - 27° | 20° | 2 mm | mostly sunny | 67% | 0.7 m/s | 1.4 high | 11.0h |
| February | Ideal | 14° - 30° | 22° | 7 mm | mostly sunny | 56% | 0.8 m/s | 1.7 very high | 11.4h |
| March | Ideal | 18° - 34° | 26° | 23 mm | mostly sunny | 52% | 1.1 m/s | 1.9 very high | 11.9h |
| April | Very Good | 21° - 35° | 29° | 51 mm | some cloud | 56% | 1.1 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.4h |
| May | Acceptable | 22° - 32° | 30° | 161 mm | overcast | 75% | 1.4 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.9h |
| June | Good | 23° - 31° | 27° | 122 mm | overcast | 81% | 1.2 m/s | 1.9 very high | 13.1h |
| July | Good | 22° - 30° | 26° | 152 mm | overcast | 83% | 1.0 m/s | 1.9 very high | 13.0h |
| August | Good | 22° - 30° | 26° | 207 mm | overcast | 87% | 1.0 m/s | 1.8 very high | 12.6h |
| September | Good | 22° - 30° | 26° | 182 mm | overcast | 89% | 0.8 m/s | 1.8 very high | 12.1h |
| October | Very Good | 21° - 29° | 25° | 104 mm | overcast | 87% | 0.8 m/s | 1.6 very high | 11.6h |
| November | Excellent | 18° - 28° | 23° | 43 mm | some cloud | 82% | 0.7 m/s | 1.5 very high | 11.2h |
| December | Ideal | 14° - 26° | 20° | 11 mm | mostly sunny | 76% | 0.8 m/s | 1.4 high | 10.9h |
How to Get to Wat Pha Lat#
Wat Pha Lat sits on the lower slopes of Doi Suthep above Chiang Mai; the most common approach is on foot along a forest trail that branches off the Doi Suthep road or via walking routes from the nearby Huay Kaew area.
Taxis, songthaews or motorbike taxis can drop visitors at the trailhead on the Doi Suthep road, after which a short walk uphill through wooded paths reaches the temple.
Tips for Visiting Wat Pha Lat#
- Wear sensible shoes, paths and stairs can be uneven and slippery when wet
- Dress respectfully for a Buddhist temple: shoulders and knees should be covered
- Bring water and insect repellent if you plan to walk the trails
- Visit quietly and avoid loud conversation; the site is used for meditation and worship
- Combine the visit with an early morning walk to avoid heat and mid-day crowds on the mountain