Wat Phantao — Attraction in Chiang Mai Province

The Wat Phan Tao is one of the older temples of Chiang Mai found in the old walled center of the city. The first structures were likely built towards the end of the 14th century.

Wat Phan Tao, meaning “temple of a thousand kilns”, probably derives its name from the ovens used to cast Buddha images for another temple, the Wat Chedi Luang, which is immediately next to the Wat Phan Tao.

The viharn of the Wat Phan Tao was originally a Ho Kham, a throne hall for one of Chiang Mai’s Kings built in 1846. After a new King ascended the throne, the Palace Hall was most likely torn down to make way for a new Palace building. The wooden panels of the old structure were used to build the viharn of the Wat Phan Tao in the year 1876.

The teak wood viharn

The viharn is an all wooden building constructed from teak panels set on a stone base. It is one of the few remaining all wooden structures of its sort in Chiang Mai. It has a three tiered roof with golden colored chofah (roof finials) shaped as stylized Naga snakes on its roof ends.

The front facade of the viharn is particularly beautiful. The gilded pelmet over the entrance show intricately carved Lanna flower motifs. Over the pelmet is a gilded carving of a peacock over a crouching dog. Naga serpents and other mythological figures are also depicted. Both the pelmet and the peacock carving are gilded and inlaid with colorful mosaic glass. The dog in the motif represents the Zodiac figure of the Chiang Mai King who originally used the building as a Palace.

Inside the viharn large red painted teak pillars support the building. Long woven banners hang from the ceiling. Opposite the entrance is a large golden sitting Buddha, the Wat Phan Tao’s principal Buddha image. The interior of the viharn contains several interesting items. Among them are a number of old wooden boxes decorated with gold leaf containing old Dhamma texts. These are the Buddhist scriptures written on palm leaves. On the left hand side is an ornately carved wooden Ku, a Buddha throne used to enshrine important Buddha images.

Other structures of the temple

The Wat Phan Tao temple complex also contains a large white chedi, a small bell tower and the monks private living quarters, or kuti. A small garden features a lineup of bells. A number of Burmese style lions (Singha in Thai language) on the outer wall guard the temple complex. A heavily decorated gate provides access to the temple grounds.

How to get to the Wat Phan Tao

The Wat Phan Tao is located close to the center of the old walled part of Chiang Mai just South of Ratchadamnoen road. The main entrance is on Phra Pok Klao road that runs North to South through the old city. The temple is located directly next to the better known Wat Chedi Luang. You can get there by tuk-tuk (agree on the price before leaving) or by rented bicycle.

Opening hours

The temple grounds are open from 6...

It is a somewhat of an interesting temple, mostly because it has a view point of Chiang Mai and it has a very pretty golden structure and some jade figures of Buddha.

The reasons I give two stars are the following : First it is difficult to go up: You either get a tour, a taxi/grab or rent a taxi for a couple of hours (all somewhat expensive). Or, you go on a red car which only departs from two places(university or north gate) and have to wait until the car is full. Red car was 60baht from north gate, but as we waited half hour and there were only 5 in the car we all agreed to pay 200 both ways per person to just go there. The way up is very... Curvy and people may get car sick. If your red car is an old one, you will also get lung cancer from all the smoke.

As you arrive, you can either go up the stairs or take the elevator (we took stairs). There will be some cute children on the stairs trying to get pictures with you (paid, naturally) and from the beginning of the stairs you start to see the donation boxes everywhere, for every single reason (the temple, the reconstruction of the temple, for the blind, the dogs, the cats, etc...) As you get up, you can either pay or not (I think it was 30baht) as there was no control whatsoever. The view could be nice, however Chiang Mai is not the prettiest city from above. You can however see the way the city develops from the square and the airport which seemed interesting.

As you go inside the temple, there are multiple signs to respect the temple and to be silent, however all the thais fighting to charge you 500baht for a picturewith the golden structure and all the Chinese being loud, there is absolutely no silence neither any respect towards the temple.

All things considered, I don't really believe it is a must see in Chiang Mai and would rather leave it for last in the to-do list. I would rather spend my time on the weekend markets (even though they all sell the same stuff) trying out the food or going to elephant sanctuary/tiger kingdom or even to any of the Temples in the old city. Maybe worth it, if you spend more time around and visit the surrounding area.

The best thing from the trip was the drinks we had at departure, 20 baht for very very nice passion fruit...

Wat Phan Tao is one of my favorite temples in Chiang Mai. Every time I step onto its grounds, I feel a profound sense of calm and connection to the city’s rich Lanna heritage. Tucked away in the heart of the old city, this temple stands out with its magnificent teakwood viharn (prayer hall), a true masterpiece of traditional craftsmanship. Built entirely from dark teak panels, the hall’s intricate carvings and aged wood seem to tell stories of the past, transporting visitors to a time when Lanna culture flourished.

As a local, I find myself drawn to Wat Phan Tao not just for its beauty, but for the peace it brings. The quiet courtyard, shaded by tall trees, feels like a sanctuary from the busy streets outside. On one visit, I sat near the pond and watched the reflection of the golden chedi shimmering in the water, feeling a deep gratitude for the traditions my city has preserved.

One of the most magical moments I’ve ever experienced here was during Yi Peng (the Lantern Festival). The temple was adorned with hundreds of glowing lanterns, and the soft flicker of candlelight illuminated the teakwood walls, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. It felt as if time had stopped, and I was witnessing a sacred moment that belonged to the heart of Chiang Mai.

Highlights:

Teakwood Viharn: A breathtaking example of Lanna architecture, built entirely from teakwood and steeped in history.

Peaceful Courtyard: Perfect for quiet reflection, with a serene pond and a golden chedi adding to its charm.

Festival Magic: Wat Phan Tao is especially enchanting during festivals like Yi Peng and Loy Krathong, when lanterns light up the night.

Tips for Visitors:

Respect the temple’s sacred nature by dressing modestly and behaving quietly.

Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to enjoy the soft sunlight or magical twilight ambiance.

If possible, plan your trip during a festival to witness the temple in all its glory.

Wat Phan Tao holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of the timeless beauty and spirit of Chiang Mai. Whether you’re seeking peace, history, or inspiration, this temple has something truly special to offer. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the cultural soul of this...