Located on a small but steep hill in the northwest corner of the city, this is thought to be the oldest religious site in Chiang Rai, and it is also believed that it was from this hilltop spot that King Mengrai decided to establish the city.
Indeed, there are some fine vies of the hills around, and if you’re lucky, you might glimpse the Kok River flowing by below. Despite the great age of this site, the temple buildings and stupa appear quite modern.
The most interesting aspect of a visit to this hill is to see Chiang Rai’s city pillar, which was moved here in 1988 to coincide with King Bhumibol’s 60th birthday. The old pillar can be seen in the viharn of the temple, but if you walk to the top of the hill, you will find the new city pillar, surrounded by a forest of smaller pillars, all draped in colorful cloth, which makes the site very photogenic.
Many Thai people visit this temple and the city pillar to make offerings during holiday periods and it is also a popular place for tourists to visit either as part of an organized tour group or on their own initiative.
Getting There
The temple and city pillar can be difficult to find as roads in this part of town twist and turn so much, so the simplest way is to take a tuk-tuk.
Need to Know
- What is it? A temple and city pillar with a pretty location on a small hill.
- Opening hours: 06:00-18:00 daily.
- Entrance fees: Free
- Address: Off Kraisorasit Road.
- Where: to the northwest of the city center, near the Kok River.