Wat Si Suphan (Wat Si Suphan) is an ancient temple and a spiritual center for the Mae Chai community.
It houses Phra Chao Thong Thip, a sacred bronze Buddha, inside the temple hall.

Phra Chao Thong Thip

The Buddha is in the Mara Vichai posture, Chiang Saen style, Singha 3 era, measuring 29 inches wide and 24 inches high.
It features a radiant golden face and flame-shaped hair.

Discovery and Construction of the Hall

Originally, the area of Mae Chai was densely forested, especially with bamboo, which caught fire.
Locals found the Buddha intact in the bamboo grove and temporarily enshrined it to protect it from sun and rain.
Later, villagers collaborated to build a permanent hall to house the statue.

Spiritual Significance

Locals believe Phra Chao Thong Thip possesses sacred powers. During droughts, crop failures, or epidemics, villagers perform rituals to bathe the Buddha, after which rain often falls miraculously.

Artistic Importance

The Buddha represents Chiang Saen style Singha 3, blended with Sukhothai and Lan Xang art.
It is recognized as both a cultural and artistic heritage, officially registered as a national treasure by the Fine Arts Department in 1991.

Architecture and Structures

• The main hall is wooden with a tiled roof and Lanna-style decorations.

• The temple grounds include pavilions and buildings exhibiting local art and smaller bronze Buddha statues.

Religious Festivals and Activities

• Every year during Songkran (April 13–17), the Phra Chao Thong Thip Procession is held.

• Locals participate in bathing the Buddha for blessings.

• Other ceremonies include rituals for rain and agricultural abundance.

Community Involvement

Villagers actively maintain the temple and organize religious activities.
The temple serves as a community spiritual center and a place to learn about Lanna art and local history.

Learning and Tourism

Visitors can see Phra Chao Thong Thip and study the beauty of Chiang Saen style Singha 3, while learning about local history, traditions, and community life in Mae Chai.

By Car:

• Take Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) from Phayao city toward Mae Chai.
  The temple is located opposite the Mae Chai District Office, with parking available on site.

By Public Transport:

• Take a bus or minivan from Phayao city to Mae Chai District Office, then walk a few steps to the temple.

• Pay respects to Phra Chao Thong Thip for blessings.

• Admire the Chiang Saen style Singha 3 and Lanna art and culture.

• Visit during Songkran to witness the Phra Chao Thong Thip Procession.

• Dress respectfully and observe local customs.

• Photograph the temple hall and pavilions for study and documentation of local art.

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge

Opening Hours:

• Temple Grounds: Open 24 hours

• Main Hall (housing Phra Chao Thong Thip): 06:00 – 18:00