Wat Phra Chao Fang (Wat Phra Chao Fang), officially known as Wat Phra Bat Udom, is an important temple with historical, cultural, artistic, and spiritual significance for the people of Fang District for many generations. It is located within the old town area of Fang beside the Mao Stream, which was once an important settlement of the Lanna Kingdom. The temple is regarded as one of the major Buddhist centers in the northernmost part of Chiang Mai Province and remains highly respected by local residents.

The most prominent feature of the temple is “Phra Chao Fang,” the principal bronze Buddha image in the Mara-Vijaya posture. Created in a blend of Lanna and Chiang Saen artistic styles, the image possesses graceful, serene, and sacred characteristics. With a lap width_ of more than two meters, it has long been recognized as the most revered Buddha image of Fang District for several centuries. Local people regularly come to pay homage and seek blessings for prosperity, stability in life, and success in their occupations.

Within the temple grounds is also an ancient replica Buddha Footprint, enshrined in a dedicated pavilion. This sacred footprint is the origin of the temple’s official name, “Wat Phra Bat Udom.” It serves as an important center of faith for Buddhists in the region. Visitors commonly come to apply gold leaf, offer prayers, and participate in religious ceremonies during important Buddhist occasions throughout the year.

Architecturally, the temple is distinguished by its traditional Lanna-style vihara, featuring multi-tiered low-sloping roofs characteristic of northern Thai architecture. The gable decorations display intricately carved floral and vine motifs, enhanced by colored glass and traditional Lanna craftsmanship. Inside the vihara are Buddha images and historical artifacts that reflect the prosperity of the Fang community in earlier times.

Wat Phra Chao Fang is closely connected to legends surrounding the ancient town of Fang. According to local traditions, during the period when Fang flourished, Phra Chao Fang was created to serve as a spiritual center and as a protector of the town from various dangers and conflicts. Over the centuries, the temple experienced both prosperity and decline before being extensively restored by monks and local devotees, eventually regaining the beauty seen today.

With its peaceful atmosphere, shady surroundings, and location near the Mao Stream, visitors can experience spiritual tranquility while learning about local history. Whether one is interested in Lanna history, cultural tourism, pilgrimage, or paying respects to a sacred Buddha image revered by the people of Fang, Wat Phra Chao Fang  is a destination that should not be missed when visiting Fang District, Chiang Mai Province.

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How to Get There

• By Private Car: From Chiang Mai city, take Highway No. 107 toward Fang District. Upon entering the Fang town area (Wiang Subdistrict), follow the signs directing visitors to Wat Phra Bat Udom or Wat Phra Chao Fang. The temple is easily accessible via paved roads, and ample parking is available within the temple grounds.

• By Public Transportation: Take a Chiang Mai–Fang bus and get off at the Fang bus station or local market. From there, hire a motorcycle taxi or a local three-wheeled vehicle (Skylab) to the temple. The distance from the town center is relatively short.

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Travel Tips

• Seeking Blessings: Local people believe that paying homage to Phra Chao Fang brings peace, stability in work, and protection from obstacles.

• Visit the Replica Buddha Footprint: Do not miss the opportunity to pay respects to the ancient replica Buddha Footprint, one of the temple’s most sacred objects.

• Photography Spot: The front area of the main vihara offers excellent photo opportunities, especially when sunlight illuminates the golden carved gable decorations against the traditional clay-tiled roof.

• Dress Respectfully: Visitors should wear appropriate clothing when entering the ordination hall and vihara and follow local Lanna customs by removing shoes before entering temple buildings.

• Visit in the Morning or Evening: The weather is cooler, the atmosphere is peaceful, and lighting conditions are ideal for photography and worship.

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Admission Fee:

• Free of charge (No entrance fee for both Thai and international visitors).

Opening Hours:

• Open daily for visits and worship from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM.