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Visit Wat Palad (Chiang Mai)

Presentation Wat Palad

Thai name : วัดผาลาด
GPS : 18.799374,98.934322 (See on the map)
My opinion :

Wat Palad (or Pha Lat) also called Wat Sakithaka is probably the prettiest forest temple in Chiang Mai province. It is located a little outside the town on Mount Doi Suthep. It is unknown to many tourists who pass right by when they go to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep without stopping to visit it. I warmly recommend you not to be one of them !

In the middle of the forest, the temple is a beautiful haven of peace, in a garden with beautiful statues, full of small little details and even a small waterfall (dried in hot season). It is one of my big favorites temples in Chiang Mai!

The easiest way to visit Wat Palad is to take one of the famous Chiang Mai red cars that go up or down to/from Doi Suthep temple and stop on the way (I would recommend to visit this temple much quieter and cool after the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep). Just say ''wat palat'' to the driver. Once deposited on the side of the road, you will see 2 small sanctuaries. To go down to the forest part of the temple, take the path that goes down to the right of the building that houses the White Buddha (or take the road to the left if you are in a car or scooter). After the visit, you will have to go up to the main road again and hail a red car to return to Chiang Mai.

Guide to visit Wat Palad

Admission is free

It seems that there is also a trail path in the mountain behind Chiang Mai zoo going to the Wat Palad but I did not (yet) tested.

To go visit Wat Palad, you can also book one of the tours below.

How to get to Wat Palad ?

To get to Wat Palad, you can follow the same directions I give to get to the Doi Suthep temple and get off on the road at the level of the temple. But I advise you to combine the two visits and visit Wat Pha Lat by descending from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

There is also a fairly nice trail in the mountain climbing to Wat Phalad for the bravest. It's called the Monk Trail, starts from this point behind the Chiang Mai University and Zoo. The climb to the temple takes about 45 minutes.

Some tours going to Wat Palad

Sacred Jungle Trail Trek up to Doi Suthep Temple in Chiang Mai

Offered in English

Trek up to Doi Suthep temple, the most revered temple in Chiang Mai with a guide starting from the monk's trail and then plunging into the jungle. You will come across a forest temple and hidden waterfalls.

Details & Booking

Explore Doi Suthep & Wat Pha Lat

Offered in English

Visit Doi Suthep Temple, the most famous temple in Chiang Mai with exquisite Lanna architecture! You can also see the panoramic view of Chiang Mai from the top of the temple. Then, we'll visit Doi Pui National Park and the hidden temple called Wat Pha Lat Temple!

Details & Booking

Alms Offering & Temple Hopping in Chiang Mai

Offered in English

In this trip, we will follow the guidance of a local to give your offering to the monks in the early morning. Most of common gifts are included rice, fresh fruit and traditional dessert in the alms bowl. We will then go on the the most important temple hopping in Chiang Mai and discover the ancient days of this peaceful city.

Details & Booking