Wat Phra That Doi Tung

Wat Phra That Doi Tung, also known as Wat Phra Maha Chinathat Chao or Wat Phra That Chom Thong, is located at the peak of Doi Din Daeng, and is believed to be the site of the first chedi.

History states that the then-King built the chedi in 911 for the purposes of housing a relic of the Buddha which was obtained from India.

Wat Phra That Doi Tung Buddhist Temple & Dress Code Chiang Rai, Thailand

The king then went ahead to delineate the chosen area from the rest of the land by setting up distinct long flags, locally referred to as ‘tungs’. The flags were hoisted at the mountains, locally referred to as ‘dois’. The combination of these names tells how Wat Phra That Doi Tung got its name.

To get to this temple, you must travel 56kms north from Chiang Rai and take the long road that snakes up the mountain’s slopes. Hire a car or ride a scooter, the road is in good condition, so access should not be a challenge. The same road leads up to the residence of the royal family nestled atop the mountain which is why it is kept in good condition.

At the temple, look out for the dual chedis that stand majestically at the temple’s grounds. The location of the two represent the original points of construction, but the chedi has since undergone several renovations to maintain its good condition.

As with all temples in Thailand, visitors must ensure they are dressed respectfully. This includes covering knees, shoulders and midriffs.

Once you have finished visiting Wat Phra That Doi Tung, make sure to stop by the Mae Fah Luang Garden for a great day out!