Wat Phra That Doi Chom Kitti (or Wat Phra That Doi Kitti), or what locals call Wat Phra That Doi Kitti, is an ancient temple located on a hilltop within the San Sai National Forest Reserve in Mae Faek Subdistrict, San Sai District, Chiang Mai Province. It serves as a center of faith for local residents and a peaceful place for meditation amidst abundant natural forest. It is suitable for those seeking spiritual tranquility along with beautiful panoramic views of San Sai District.

According to local accounts, this area has been a sacred site since the era of the Lua community or ancient civilizations, before the Phra That (pagoda/chedis housing relics) was built to enshrine the Lord Buddha's relics and serve as a center for Buddhist ceremonies. Later, the temple was abandoned for a long time, affected by forest fires and deterioration over time, leaving only the ancient chedi as historical evidence.

Later, Luang Pu Chum Phothiko, a close disciple of Kruba Chao Sriwichai, the revered monk of Lanna, received a vision that the Lord Buddha's relics were enshrined beneath the chedi's base. He then invited villagers to collectively restore and revive the temple, developing it into a meditation center and a spiritual hub for the community until the present day. It stands as another temple reflecting the villagers' collaboration in preserving the Buddhist heritage.

Currently, the temple covers an area of approximately 35 rai, surrounded by lush natural forests with cool weather all year round. Within the temple stands the Phra That Doi Chom Kitti, a sacred chedi simply restored in Lanna architectural style. Locals frequently visit to pay homage for good fortune, believing it brings luck, prosperity, success in work, and peace and happiness to their families.

A significant symbol of the temple is Phra Phutthabaramee Sirimunee Chom Kitti, a large white Lanna-style Buddha statue in the posture of granting blessings, majestically situated on the hilltop and visible from afar. Additionally, there is a Reclining Buddha (in the posture of subduing Asurindrarahu), a meditation hall, monastic residences, a ceremonial ground, and areas for those wishing to meditate or practice Dhamma amidst serene nature.

Another popular highlight is the 180-degree panoramic viewpoint, offering views of rice fields, Mae Faek village, San Sai district, the Maejo University area, and the surrounding mountain ranges. On clear days, the scenery can be seen for many kilometers. Especially in the evening, the golden sunlight beautifully illuminates the white Buddha statue and the Phra That, making it the most popular time for tourists and photographers to visit.

Besides being a religious tourist attraction, the temple also hosts various Buddhist activities on important days such as Visakha Bucha, Makha Bucha, Asalha Bucha, and Buddhist Lent. Many Buddhists from San Sai district and nearby areas come to make merit, circumambulate, and practice Dhamma, ensuring the temple's continued vital role in the community's way of life.

With its long history, the sanctity of the Phra That, the temple's serenity, and beautiful scenery, Wat Phra That Doi Chom Kitti is another interesting attraction in San Sai district. It is suitable for those wishing to pay homage to sacred objects, meditate, enjoy nature views, and experience the charm of a simple and peaceful hilltop temple not far from Chiang Mai city.

• From Chiang Mai city, take Highway No. 1001 (Chiang Mai–Phrao) heading towards San Sai District, passing Maejo University. Continue to Mae Faek Subdistrict for approximately 30–35 kilometers. You will find signs indicating the entrance to Phra That Village. Then, drive along the concrete road uphill to the temple; the distance is not far. The road is accessible by both cars and motorcycles, and there is a parking area available at the top, near the Phra That and Buddha statue.

• Recommended to visit between 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM (depending on the season) to witness the most beautiful sunset and Golden Hour light.

• On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views of rice fields, San Sai District, and distant mountain ranges.

• Dress modestly as it is a temple and meditation center.

• Refrain from making loud noises and help maintain the cleanliness of the place.

• If visiting during the rainy season, the surrounding nature will be especially lush and fresh. During the cold season, the cool weather is ideal for sightseeing.

• You can combine your trip with Maejo University, Maejo Market, Mae Jok Luang Reservoir, and other attractions in San Sai District within the same day.

Admission Fee:

• Free entry (no admission fee; donations to maintain the religious site are welcome based on your faith)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:00 AM – 05:30 PM

Note: Those wishing to participate in meditation or religious activities should check the schedule with the temple in advance, as activities may be organized on important religious and public holidays, and opening/closing times may change at the discretion of the temple.