Wat Phra That Doi Wao (Phra That Doi Wao)

History & Significance

Wat Phra That Doi Wao holds a deep historical significance in Chiang Rai. According to historical records, the original chedi was built in 364 BE (or 296 BE) by King Phra Ong Wao (also known as Phra Ong Waow), the 10th ruler of the Singhanavati dynasty of the Yonok Nakphan Kingdom. The king built the structure specifically to enshrine a sacred hair relic of the Buddha. It is recognized as the second oldest chedi in the region, preceded only by Phra That Doi Tung.

Over the centuries, the original chedi collapsed due to natural decay. In the mid-20th century, Mr. Bunyeun Srisamut, a wealthy resident of Mae Sai, collaborated with the monk Phra Bhikkhu Duangsaeng Rattanamanee, local officials, merchants, and the Fine Arts Department to reconstruct the temple. During the excavation process, they discovered a black stone casket containing five Buddha relics, which were subsequently re-enshrined in the newly built pagoda. The foundation stone was laid on April 8, 1951, and the construction was completed with a grand celebration on February 20, 1955, attended by Buddhist devotees from both Thailand and Myanmar.

Highlights & What to See

• The Sacred Chedi: The main pagoda enshrines the sacred hair relic and the five discovered Buddha relics, serving as a major pilgrimage site.
• Skywalk Wat Phra That Doi Wao: A modern 150-meter-long skywalk that offers spectacular, unobstructed views of the border area between Thailand and Myanmar.
• Giant Scorpion Statue: A massive scorpion sculpture built to commemorate King Phra Ong Wao, as "Wao" translates to "scorpion" in the local Lanna language.
• Phaichayont Prasat: A small, beautifully crafted vihara that houses a replica of the revered Emerald Buddha.
• King Naresuan the Great Monument: A dedicated monument where visitors can pay their respects to one of Thailand's most celebrated historical kings.
• Phra That Ket Kaeo Chulamanee: Another sacred structure located within the temple grounds that visitors can walk to and worship.

Visitor Information

The temple is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00. While entry to the general temple grounds is free, access to the Skywalk Wat Phra That Doi Wao is priced at 50 THB for Thai adults and 25 THB for children, with a visitor limit of 100 people per round. For inquiries, visitors can contact the temple at 08 0746 2528 or 0 5373 1527.

Festivals & Traditions

The temple hosts an annual worship festival on the 15th day of the waxing moon of the 5th Northern lunar month (which corresponds to the 3rd Southern lunar month, Makha Bucha Day). Additionally, a traditional bathing ritual (Song Nam Phra That) is held every year during the Songkran festival.

How to Get There

Wat Phra That Doi Wao is located on Doi Wao in the Mae Sai District of Chiang Rai, right by the Mae Sai River. While the main ordination hall and monk quarters are located at the foot of the hill, visitors can reach the mountaintop pagoda by climbing the stairs or driving up the steep, well-paved concrete road which is accessible in all seasons.