Wat Phra Singh

Overview - Wat Phra Singh is a major Buddhist temple in the Old City of Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, founded in the mid-14th century and a key center of Lanna religious art.

What visitors find - The complex centers on several historic assembly halls and chapels. The Wihan Lai Kham contains the principal Phra Singh image and intricate Lanna decorative work; the larger Wihan Luang hosts ceremonies and is architecturally prominent. The compound’s combination of carved wood, gilding, and mural painting makes it a principal site for those studying northern Thai temple art.

History - Established during the Lanna kingdom in the 14th century, the temple complex has been repaired and restored several times while retaining its role as an active monastic and community site. Important structures reflect work from the original founding period and later restorations that preserved Lanna stylistic elements.

Location - Located inside Chiang Mai’s Old City near the central moat, the temple sits within walking distance of other Old City landmarks and is accessible from major roads and public transport.

• Main image: Houses the Phra Singh Buddha image in the Wihan Lai Kham, the temple's most important devotional object.
• Art and murals: Wihan Lai Kham contains Lanna-style murals and gilded woodwork that are highlights for art historians and photographers.

What to See #

• Wihan Lai Kham: Principal assembly hall dating to the 14th century that houses the temple's main Buddha image and is noted for Lanna-style decorative work and murals.
• Wihan Luang: The larger ordination hall used for major ceremonies; built and rebuilt at different times, it forms the focal point of the temple compound.