Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong Temple
Hilltop Buddhist temple featuring a revered stupa
Perched above a valley, Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong combines a gilded stupa with hilltop outlooks; worshippers and sightseers climb for the view and seasonal merit‑making.
Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong at a Glance#
Address: Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong - Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand
Admission: Free (donations welcome)
Set on a small but steep hill in the northwest corner of the city, this is thought to be the oldest religious site in Chiang Rai. Tradition holds that it was from this hilltop that King Mengrai chose to found the city.
There are fine views of the surrounding hills, and with luck you may glimpse the Kok River flowing below. Despite the site’s great age, the temple buildings and stupa look quite modern. The most compelling feature is Chiang Rai’s city pillar, moved here in 1988 to coincide with King Bhumibol’s 60th birthday. The old pillar stands in the viharn, while at the top of the hill the new city pillar is surrounded by a forest of smaller pillars, all draped in colourful cloth, making the spot very photogenic.
Many Thai visitors come to make offerings during holiday periods, and it is also a popular stop for tourists, whether on an organised tour or exploring independently.
How to Get to Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong#
Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong sits on a low hill in the northwest corner of Chiang Rai, near the Kok River. The winding lanes in this part of town can be confusing, so the easiest way to reach it is a short tuk-tuk ride from the centre; from the top there are fine views over the surrounding hills.
Best Time to Visit Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong#
The best time to visit Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong is in the cool, dry season (November-February) for comfortable temple visits and clear views.
Weather & Climate near Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong#
Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong'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 14°C to 36°C. Abundant rainfall (1059 mm/year), wettest in August with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 14°C. The driest month with just 3 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 32°C and lows of 15°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is warm with highs of 35°C and lows of 19°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is the hottest month, feeling like 31°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
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May
May is hot, feeling like 33°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (161 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (119 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (149 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (197 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (185 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (112 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 15°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
