Wat Phra Kaew (Chiang Rai) Temple
Chiang Rai's most historically important temple — the spot where Thailand's revered Emerald Buddha is said to have been discovered in 1434.
About Wat Phra Kaew#
Sharing its name with the country’s most famous temple in Bangkok, Chiang Rai’s Wat Phra Kaew is where the revered Emerald Buddha is said to have been discovered. Legend has it that in 1434 a bolt of lightning split the temple’s stupa in two to reveal the small jade image hidden inside.
The Emerald Buddha was later carried off to Vientiane for a long spell before finally being installed in Bangkok, where it remains Thailand’s most sacred Buddha image and national talisman. A jade replica now sits here in Chiang Rai - you’ll find it behind the main viharn in a building called the Hor Phra Yok. The temple has been extensively restored over recent decades and is an easy, atmospheric stop in the old town.
Visiting Wat Phra Kaew#
The temple sits just northwest of the city centre on Trairat Road, an easy walk from the middle of town or a short tuk-tuk ride.
- What is it? Chiang Rai’s most important temple, tied to the story of the Emerald Buddha.
- Opening hours: 06:00 - 18:00 daily.
- Entrance fee: Free.
Weather & Climate near Wat Phra Kaew (Chiang Rai)#
Wat Phra Kaew (Chiang Rai)'s climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with hot summers (peaking in April) and warm winters (coldest in December). Temperatures range from 13°C to 36°C. Abundant rainfall (1402 mm/year), wettest in August with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 13°C. The driest month with just 8 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 32°C and lows of 14°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is warm with highs of 35°C and lows of 17°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is the hottest month, feeling like 30°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm).
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May
May is hot, feeling like 32°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (182 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 32°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (161 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (237 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 30°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (297 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 23°C. Heavy rain (221 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 14°C. Light rainfall.
