“Pay respect to the sacred four overlapping Buddha footprints according to Lanna Buddhist legend and admire the intricate craftsmanship of wood-carved temples amidst pristine nature.”
Wat Phraphutthabat Si Roi is a highly revered historical and religious site situated on a mountain range in Saluang Subdistrict, Mae Rim District. According to historical records, these footprints were discovered and preserved since the Lanna Kingdom era, with various monarchs and prominent monks making pilgrimages for meditation and restoration throughout history. Located within a lush and tranquil forest, the temple serves as a vital destination for Buddhists seeking spiritual merit and genuine inner peace.
The most significant feature of this temple is the Four Overlapping Buddha Footprints, which consist of four footprints pressed onto a single large stone. According to Buddhist legend, these represent the footprints of the four Buddhas who have appeared in this current era (Kalpa): Kakusandha Buddha, Konagamana Buddha, Kassapa Buddha, and Gautama Buddha. Paying homage to these overlapping footprints is believed to provide immense merit, as it signifies being in the presence of all four Buddhas simultaneously a supreme blessing for the faithful.
The architecture and Buddhist art within the temple clearly reflect the refinement of Lanna craftsmanship. This is especially evident in the cruciform pavilion (Chaturmukha Viharn) built over the footprints, decorated with delicate wood carvings and exquisite gold leaf application. Additionally, the teak wood assembly hall and the ordination hall, designed with applied Lanna art, are majestic and harmonize perfectly with the mountainous terrain. These works of art are not merely for aesthetic purposes but represent the profound faith the Lanna people have held toward Buddhism across generations.
In terms of area management, the temple maintains strict standards of order and cleanliness. Despite the trekking route to the temple being steep and winding due to the mountainous geography, the organized management of the site ensures that the surroundings remain exceptionally peaceful, suitable for meditation and Dhamma practice. The purity of the surrounding nature and the systematic management allow visitors to experience a level of sanctity and tranquility rarely found in urban tourist attractions.
Wat Phraphutthabat Si Roi is thus a center of faith that perfectly integrates history, belief, and artistic beauty. Visiting this site is more than just sightseeing; it is a journey to connect with spiritual roots and find peace amidst pure nature. Preparing both body and mind for the ascent to pay respects at the Buddha footprints ensures a valuable experience of faith and lasting impression for every visitor.
How to Get There
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Private Car: From Chiang Mai city, take Highway 107 (Chiang Mai-Fang) toward Mae Rim District, then turn left toward Saluang Subdistrict. The final stretch of the route is a winding mountain road with steep sections; please drive with caution and check your brake condition before traveling.
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Public Transport: It is recommended to use the "Red Truck" (Songthaew) service with drivers experienced in mountain routes for safety, as there are no direct public buses to the temple.
Travel Tips
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Dress Code: As this is a highly sacred and formal site, please dress modestly (gentlemen should wear long trousers; ladies should wear skirts covering the knees or appropriate trousers).
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Travel: The mountain route is winding for approximately 10-15 kilometers at the end. Use low gears and exercise extreme caution if you are not familiar with the route.
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Best Time to Visit: It is recommended to arrive in the morning for parking convenience and to avoid driving down the mountain after dark.
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Cleanliness: Please strictly follow the temple's regulations regarding cleanliness to maintain the serene atmosphere.
Admission Fee:
- No Admission Fee.
Opening Hours:
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Open Daily: 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM