Wat Phra That Chom Thong is a third-class royal temple (Worawihan) and has been a key religious and cultural landmark in Phayao for centuries. It serves as a spiritual center for the local community and hosts various Buddhist ceremonies and traditional festivals.

The temple is located on Doi Chom Thong, a prominent hill visible from afar, directly opposite Wat Si Khom Kham (Wat Phra Chao Ton Luang). Its hilltop location not only enhances the stupa’s and vihara’s grandeur but also provides panoramic views of Kwan Phayao and the surrounding city.

Visitors often come to worship the stupa, make merit, and pay respects at the Phra Chao Thanjai pavilion, making the temple both a spiritual and cultural tourism destination in Phayao.

History and Origin

• Built in the 20th Buddhist century by the Lanna people as a spiritual and cultural center for Phayao

• Constructed to house Buddha relics brought from Sukhothai, reflecting strong Buddhist faith

• Historically significant for religious ceremonies and local festivals such as the annual stupa celebration

• The temple has been renovated multiple times to preserve Lanna architecture and the golden stupa

The Stupa

• Lanna-style bell-shaped stupa with a golden chedi and umbrella ornament

• Houses Buddha relics

• Architecture shows Sukhothai and Burmese influences, similar to Wat Phra That Hariphunchai in Lamphun

• Considered a sacred site by locals and a place for merit-making and blessings

Vihara and Pavilion

• Vihara decorated with intricate plaster patterns and houses several sacred Buddha images

• Features the Phra Chao Thanjai pavilion, popular for making quick wishes

Activities and Ceremonies

• Visitors can participate in short meditation or chanting sessions

• During the stupa festival, experience traditional Lanna ceremonies and local culture

Scenery and Environment

• Surrounded by a shaded arboretum, peaceful and suitable for relaxation and meditation

• From the hilltop, visitors can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Kwan Phayao and the city

• Ideal for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset

Facilities

• Parking available

• Restrooms for visitors

• Safe walking paths to the stupa

• Multiple scenic spots for photography

Private Car:

• Drive from Phayao city along Phahonyothin Road (Highway 1), turn into Soi 13, Moo 17, Ban Tom Subdistrict, and continue for 5–10 minutes to the temple parking lot

Public Transport / Songthaew:

• Take a songthaew or van from Phayao city to near Wat Si Khom Kham, then take a motorbike taxi up Doi Chom Thong (approx. 5–10 minutes)

For Walkers:

• There is a slightly steep staircase from the parking lot to the stupa, taking about 10–15 minutes. Comfortable walking shoes and water are recommended

• Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best views

• Pay respects to the Phra That Chom Thong Stupa for blessings

• Stop at Phra Chao Thanjai pavilion to make wishes

• Explore the vihara and admire the intricate Lanna plasterwork

• Capture panoramic views of Phayao city from the hilltop

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge

Opening Hours:

• Open daily: 06:00 – 18:00