Wat Tha Fa Tai is located south of Ban Tha Fa in Chiang Muan District. It is an ancient temple within a large Tai Lue community, where agriculture and traditional Tai Lue textile weaving are central to daily life. The temple is believed to have been established in the early Rattanakosin period by Tai Lue migrants from Mong and La cities in the Xishuangbanna region, serving as a spiritual and communal anchor.

History and Stories:
Built in the beautiful Tai Lue artistic style, the temple was registered as a historical site by the Fine Arts Department in 1981 (B.E. 2524). Inside the vihara, a Maravichai Buddha statue carved from rosewood is enshrined. Additionally, there are teakwood scripture chests and other ritual implements, along with colorful tung flags hanging inside the vihara. Locals offer tung flags believing that departed souls can ascend to heaven by holding onto them.

Art and Architecture:
The temple's structures, including the vihara and chedi, combine Lanna and Tai Lue art styles. Intricate carvings on the Buddha statue and ritual implements showcase local craftsmanship. The interior decoration with tung flags and teakwood chests enhances both spiritual reverence and the temple’s sacred atmosphere.

Activities and Traditions:
Wat Tha Fa Tai remains a center for community merit-making and Tai Lue traditions, such as tung offerings and annual merit ceremonies. Visitors can participate in religious activities, pay respects to the principal Buddha, and observe demonstrations of Tai Lue textile weaving.

Atmosphere:
The temple is quiet, shaded, and clean, ideal for meditation, relaxation, and learning about the local Tai Lue culture.

---

How to Get There

By Car:

• From Phayao town, take Phahonyothin Road (Highway 1) towards Chiang Muan District. Upon reaching Ban Fa See Thong, Sa Subdistrict, the temple is easily visible. Parking is available.

By Public Transport / Songthaew / Taxi:

• Take a vehicle from Phayao town to Chiang Muan District, get off at Ban Fa See Thong, Sa Subdistrict, then walk 200–300 meters to the temple. Show the temple name to the driver or ask locals for directions for clarity.

---

Travel Tips

• Dress respectfully when visiting the temple

• Participate in merit-making or pay respects to the principal Buddha for blessings

• The temple is near Doi Phu Nang National Park, making it convenient to visit both locations

• Ideal for visitors seeking a quiet atmosphere for meditation

• Take photos respectfully and be mindful of sacred areas

---

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge

Opening Hours:

• Open daily 06:00 – 18:00