What it is
Wat Phra Singh is one of the Old City's most important temples, founded in the 14th century and home to the Phra Singh Buddha image, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha statues. The temple complex is considered a benchmark example of classic Lanna (Northern Thai) temple architecture, particularly the Lai Kham chapel with its detailed wood carving and mural paintings.
What to see
Beyond the main viharn, seek out the smaller Lai Kham chapel to the rear of the complex — its murals, depicting local folk tales rather than only religious scenes, are considered some of the best-preserved traditional Lanna paintings in the city. The temple's golden chedi and ornate roof detailing are also worth slowing down for.
Getting there
Wat Phra Singh sits at the western side of the Old City, an easy walk from Wat Chedi Luang and most Old City hotels, and it's a regular stop on the Sunday Walking Street route, which passes close by.
Visiting tips
- Shoulders and knees covered, shoes off before entering the viharn and Lai Kham chapel.
- It's an active, working temple with regular ceremonies — move quietly and avoid pointing feet toward Buddha images while seated.
- Pair it with Wat Chedi Luang for an easy half-day of Old City temple visits on foot.