Some of the north's most memorable temples sit just outside Chiang Mai: a golden hilltop shrine where Thai pilgrims come to make wishes, the sunken ruins of the capital that existed before Chiang Mai itself, and a countryside temple so ornate it stops you in your tracks. This guide covers the best temple day-trips and how to reach them.
For the in-city temples, see our temples hub and Old City walk.
Wat Phra That Doi Kham: the golden hill of wishes
Wat Phra That Doi Kham, on a hill in the southwest about 20 to 30 minutes from the centre, is one of the most beloved temples among Thai visitors. Its enormous golden Buddha is visible from afar, and the temple is famous for granting wishes: devotees offer jasmine garlands and return to give thanks when their wishes come true, filling it with a lively devotional energy, especially at weekends. Sweeping views, golden glory, and a genuinely local atmosphere. Free, and easily paired with the nearby Royal Park Rajapruek and the Grand Canyon.
Wiang Kum Kam: the sunken ancient capital
Wiang Kum Kam, just south in Saraphi, is the ruined city that King Mangrai founded as his capital before flooding drove him to establish Chiang Mai in 1296. Today, scattered temple ruins and chedis stand among a quiet modern village, explored by horse-drawn cart, tram, or bicycle. It is an atmospheric, often-overlooked glimpse into the region's deep history, and an easy, unusual half-day close to the city.
Wat Ban Den: the ornate countryside complex
Wat Ban Den (Wat Den Sali Si Muang Kaen), about an hour north in Mae Taeng, is a vast and astonishingly elaborate temple complex: golden and red multi-tiered halls, a full row of zodiac-animal pagodas, intricate carvings, and dragon staircases spread across sprawling grounds. Far less touristed than the city temples and free, it is one of the most photogenic temple visits in the region. Combine it with the Sticky Waterfall or an ethical elephant sanctuary in the same northern area.
Getting there
| Temple | Distance | How |
|---|---|---|
| Wat Phra That Doi Kham | 20 to 30 min SW | Grab, songthaew, scooter |
| Wiang Kum Kam | 15 to 20 min S | Grab/scooter + on-site cart/tram |
| Wat Ban Den | ~1 hr N (Mae Taeng) | Car, scooter, or tour |
Tips
- Combine nearby sights: Doi Kham with Royal Park and the Grand Canyon; Wat Ban Den with the Sticky Waterfall or an elephant sanctuary.
- Go on a weekday at Doi Kham to avoid the biggest Thai-pilgrim crowds (or embrace the weekend buzz).
- Take the cart or tram at Wiang Kum Kam; the ruins are spread out.
- Dress modestly and carry small cash for donations and tour fees.
The bottom line
The temple day-trips show a different side of the north: living Thai devotion at Doi Kham, deep history at Wiang Kum Kam, and countryside splendour at Wat Ban Den. Build them into wider day-trips and you see the outskirts too. Continue with our temples hub and Lanna heritage guide.