Wat Phra Sing Waramahawihan, also formerly known as Lii Chiang Phra Temple, is one of Chiang Mai’s oldest and most significant temples. It was built in 1888 by King Phayu of Chiang Mai to house the ashes of his father, King Kham Fu. The temple’s original name came from its location near the old market (Kad Lii).

The temple is most important for housing the Phra Buddha Sihing, a sacred Buddha statue that symbolizes the city of Chiang Mai. The Buddha is enshrined in the Lai Kham Viharn, a small Lanna-style viharn. The murals inside are historically and artistically valuable, with the northern wall depicting Sang Thong and the southern wall Suwannakhong, uniquely found only here. These murals reflect the daily life and culture of the Lanna people over 100 years ago.

Wat Phra Sing also features a historic Ho Trai (scripture hall), built as a half-brick, half-wood structure. The outer walls are adorned with plaster deities in Lanna style, created by artisans during King Muang Kaew’s era. The base of the Ho Trai is decorated with lotus motifs and mythical animals from Lanna folklore.

The temple is also the birth-year pagoda for those born in the Year of the Dragon, attracting devotees who wish for good fortune and blessings.

Wat Phra Sing has been elevated to a first-class royal monastery (Waramahawihan) and is one of the temples that Chiang Mai is promoting for World Heritage status.

By car/motorcycle:

• Accessible by vehicle. Visitors usually park outside and walk into the temple area or take public transport (red songthaews) in the city.

• Songkran Festival: The Phra Buddha Sihing is paraded around the city for people to pour water and receive blessings.

• World Heritage: Wat Phra Sing is one of the key sites being proposed for World Heritage status.

Admission Fee:

• Foreign visitors: Admission fee applies (please check rates at the time of visit)

• Thai visitors: Free of charge

Opening Hours:

• 07:00-18:00 hrs.