“Admire the beauty of Tai Yai-Burmese architecture and visit the museum that preserves over 100-year-old carved wooden dolls depicting the Vessantara Jataka.”
Wat Chong Klang is an ancient temple of great historical and artistic importance. It stands side-by-side with Wat Chong Kham within the same compound, earning them the nickname "twin temples" of Mae Hong Son. The temple is located on the edge of Nong Chong Kham, a large pond in the heart of the city, which creates a beautiful reflection of the temple's silhouette both day and night.
Originally, Wat Chong Klang was just a sermon hall built by villagers for a Burmese monk. Later, due to their faith, the villagers invited the monk to stay there, and in 1867, Wat Chong Klang was established.
The highlight of this temple is its Tai Yai-Burmese style architecture, featuring multiple tiered roofs and delicate, finely carved zinc patterns. Inside the viharn (assembly hall) is a shimmering golden replica of the Phra Singh Buddha. The temple also houses the Wat Chong Klang Museum, which is a repository for many rare antiques.
The museum displays precious items brought from Myanmar since 1857, such as carved wooden dolls of people and animals depicting the Vessantara Jataka, created by Burmese craftsmen. Other items include glass paintings, marble Buddha statues, porcelain bowls, and various ancient utensils, giving visitors a genuine glimpse into the profound history and culture of the Tai Yai people.
If you want to experience beautiful architecture and learn about the history of the Tai Yai people, Wat Chong Klang is a place you shouldn't miss.
How to Get There
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Private car: Drive along Saneh Nan Sathit Road in Mae Hong Son town. Wat Chong Klang is located next to Wat Chong Kham and Nong Chong Kham.
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Public transport: You can use the local songthaew (shared taxi) service in the town or rent a motorcycle to get to the temple.
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On foot: If you are staying in Mae Hong Son town, you can easily walk to the temple as it is located in the city center.
Travel Tips
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Wat Chong Klang is in the same compound as Wat Chong Kham, so you can visit both at the same time.
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In the evening, there is a walking street market around Nong Chong Kham, making the atmosphere lively and perfect for a continued stroll.
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Please dress respectfully when visiting the temple.
Admission Fee:
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No charge
Opening Time:
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Daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM