Wat Saeng Kaew Phothiyan (Wat Phra That Saeng Kaew Phothiyan) is a famous temple located on Doi Mon Saeng Kaew in Mae Suai District, Chiang Rai Province. It is situated at 191 Moo 11, Ban Pa Tueng, Chedi Luang Subdistrict, covering an area of approximately 29 rai on a hillside about 1.5 kilometers from the village. The temple is easily accessible via paved road and offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Mae Suai District and surrounding areas.

The temple was founded in 2006 through the faith and vision of Kruba Ariyachart Ariyachitto, who intended to establish a spiritual center and a place for Buddhist learning that blends Lanna art with spiritual symbolism. The name “Saeng Kaew Phothiyan” means pure enlightened wisdom shining like a crystal, representing spiritual awakening and the path to enlightenment.

The temple is designed according to the concept of Traiphum (the Three Realms: Hell–Human–Heaven), reflecting Buddhist teachings on karma and moral consequence. Visitors can walk through a symbolic spiritual journey from the lower human realm up to the heavenly realm at the hilltop, representing a gradual path toward enlightenment.

A major highlight is the glass skywalk (Chiang Rai Skywalk) extending from a cliff edge, offering a thrilling 360-degree panoramic view over the Mae Suai valley and surrounding mountains. Nearby stands the magnificent Phra Sri Ariya Maitreya Buddha statue, symbolizing the future Buddha. Visitors often come here to pray for blessings, prosperity, success, and spiritual merit.

The temple also serves as a sacred center housing many important statues, including the world’s largest Kruba Srivichai statue, Kruba Khao Pi, and Kruba Chaiyawongsa Phattana, along with various deities such as Nang Kwak (prosperity goddess), Ganesha (success and career), Phra Phrom (Brahma for problem-solving and protection), Phra Siwali (luck and wealth), Mae Takhian spirit, and Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva (Guanyin, 38-arm form), all of which are widely worshipped for blessings in different aspects of life.

Another distinctive feature of the temple is its contemporary Lanna Buddhist art, which combines traditional northern Thai artistic styles with modern interpretations. These artistic creations help convey Buddhist teachings in a more accessible and visually engaging way.

The visitor route is well organized, starting from the lower courtyard with sacred shrines, continuing through the main temple areas, then passing the Kruba Srivichai Monument, Bodhisattva Park, and finally reaching the Skywalk viewpoint, making the visit a complete spiritual and cultural journey.

Although part of the temple was affected by a fire in 2024, the main areas remain open to visitors. In particular, the skywalk and outdoor sacred zones are fully operational and well maintained, making the temple one of the most visited landmarks in Chiang Rai.

Wat Saeng Kaew Phothiyan is therefore not only a religious site but also a spiritual and cultural tourism destination that combines faith, Lanna art, Buddhist philosophy, and natural mountain scenery, making it one of the must-visit attractions in northern Thailand.

• From Chiang Rai city, take Highway 1 toward Phayao, then connect to Highway 118 toward Mae Suai District for approximately 50 kilometers. The temple entrance is located on the left side, with a paved road leading directly to the parking area.

• Dress modestly and appropriately for a sacred temple.

• Visit in the morning for cooler weather and better lighting.

• Check weather conditions before walking on the glass skywalk, especially during strong winds or rain.

• Bring cash for skywalk fees and merit-making donations.

• Allow 1–2 hours to explore the entire temple complex.

Admission Fee:

• Free entry to the temple.
• Skywalk fee approximately 40 THB (free for monks and elderly visitors).

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 07:00 to 18:00.