Wat Suan Dok was originally named Buppharam Temple and was built in 1916 by King Kue Na Thammikaraj on the site of his former royal garden. The temple today holds significance in terms of history, religion, and education.

History and Significant Sacred Objects

• Buddha Relics: The temple was built to enshrine Buddha relics brought from Sukhothai by Phra Sumana Thera, which were later divided into two parts—one enshrined at Wat Suan Dok and the other at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

• Northern Princes’ Stupas: A distinctive feature of the temple, constructed by Chao Dara Rasmi, the royal consort. These stupas house the ashes of the northern rulers of Chiang Mai and display a unique Lanna-Western architectural fusion.

• Phra Chao Kaeo Tue: A large bronze Buddha image in the Mara Vichaya posture, housed in the main hall, representing ancient Lanna art and highly revered.

Activities and Experiences for Visitors

As the site of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Chiang Mai Campus, Wat Suan Dok offers activities that allow visitors to experience the essence of Buddhism:

• Monk Chat Program: This long-standing program allows international visitors to speak and exchange directly with monks and novices, learning Thai culture, traditions, and Buddhist teachings.

• Meditation Retreats: Wat Suan Dok offers Vipassana meditation programs for foreign visitors interested in serious practice (check schedules in advance).

• Photography: The cluster of white stupas is a highly photogenic spot, often photographed by visitors in traditional Thai attire.

Private Car/Taxi:

• From Chiang Mai city center, take Suthep Road heading toward Chiang Mai University; the temple will be on the left side.

Public Transport:

• Take the red songthaew (shared taxi) in Chiang Mai city and request to go to “Wat Suan Dok.”

Parking:

• Parking is available within the temple grounds for visitors.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission (some buildings may request a small maintenance fee from foreign visitors, approximately 20 THB).

Opening Hours:

• Open daily, typically 09:00 - 21:00 (check main hall hours separately).

Wat Suan Dok is located on Suthep road, about 1 kilometer West of the old walled city center. You can get there easily by tuk-tuk or rented bicycle, and the temple grounds are open from 6 am until 5 pm.