Visit Wat Ban Den (Chiang Mai)

Wat Ban Den temple or Wat Bandensali Si Mueang Kaen by its full name, is located 50 kilometers from Chiang Mai city. It is a huge buddhist complex composed of several halls and stupas. Its colorful statues and immensity have made its reputation. Formerly Wat Ribunrueang, it is located in the Mae Taeng District in Chiang Mai province and stands on top of a small hill. In 1804, Kruba Thueang Natsilo, a former abbot, had the temple renovated with the intention of turning it into a beautiful place of worship to attract more people to teach them religion. The main structures of the temple include a Ubosot, main hall in a Ho Trai, scripture library, drum tower, Wihan Sao Inthakhin, sanctuary of the sacred pillar, Kuti in Lanna style teak wood, a monks house, a stupa... Don't miss the superb Burmese-style reclining Buddha !

Wat Ban Den is a huge temple that keeps getting bigger. Architecturally speaking, you will find a lot of different elements and styles with an amazing sense of detail. It is a beautiful place but I must admit that I did not find in it the little extra soul that I usually feel in temples in Thailand. I have been there twice and had this feeling of the place being a little artificial both times. But it is probably just me and whatewer it's still an interesting visit and a stop that I recommend on the road from Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao.