Wat Sri Chum is recognized as the largest Burmese temple in Thailand, among the more than 31 Burmese temples found across the country. Located in the heart of Lampang city, the temple represents an important historical legacy from the prosperous teak logging era during the late 19th century.

The temple was established in 1890 (B.E. 2433) by U Yo, a wealthy Burmese merchant who came to Lampang to work in the booming teak trade alongside British companies. As his business prospered, he built Wat Sri Chum as a place of merit-making and as a spiritual center for the Burmese community living in Lampang at that time. Due to its historical and architectural value, the temple was later registered as a national historic site in 1981 (B.E. 2524).

The most remarkable feature of the temple was its grand viharn built in a unique “half-brick, half-wood” structure, blending Mandalay Burmese architecture with Lanna influences. The roof is constructed in multiple elegant tiers with pointed finials and decorated with elaborate wooden carvings and metal fretwork along the eaves, creating a striking silhouette that reflects the refined craftsmanship of Burmese artisans.

However, an unfortunate event occurred in the early morning of January 16, 1992 (B.E. 2535) when a devastating fire destroyed most of the original viharn. Only a portion of the original carved wooden entrance arch, featuring delicate floral openwork patterns, survived the blaze and remains an important relic of the original structure.

Following the fire, the temple was carefully restored and rebuilt in its original architectural style, preserving the identity of the Burmese Mandalay design as closely as possible. Several charred decorative elements from the original structure are now displayed behind the viharn, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of the temple.

Inside the viharn, visitors can admire Burmese-style Buddha images with serene expressions typical of Mandalay art. Behind the viharn stands a golden Burmese-style pagoda that enshrines sacred Buddha relics brought from Myanmar, making the temple not only an architectural landmark but also an important place of worship.

Today, Wat Sri Chum remains one of Lampang’s most impressive cultural landmarks, combining history, religious devotion, and exquisite Burmese craftsmanship, and is considered a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the historic city of Lampang.

• By Car: Wat Sri Chum is located on Thipphawan Road in the Sob Tui area, near the center of Lampang city. The temple is easily accessible and parking is available within the temple grounds.

• Horse Carriage: The temple is one of the most popular stops on Lampang’s traditional horse carriage city tour, where visitors often pause to admire the impressive Burmese architecture.

• Surviving Art: Don't miss the ancient, over 130-year-old carved wooden archway that survived the temple fire.

• Golden Hour: The light between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM illuminates the intricate metalwork on the roof, creating a beautiful sparkle that complements the interior of the temple.

• Burmese Temple Route: You can plan a visit to three Burmese temples in Lampang, including Wat Si Chum → Wat Si Rong Muang → Wat Pa Fang.

• Dress Code: Only attire is important.

• Viewing the Interior of the Assembly Hall: The prayer hall should be maintained to preserve its atmosphere.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open daily: 06:30 AM – 06:30 PM